We partnered with Tycoon Gaming to create Property Magnate, a mobile game that gives players a lifelike experience of the UK property market. By utilising real-time data from Zoopla, we designed an engaging game where users can buy, sell, and rent virtual properties, all while building their property empire.
The Challenge
Tycoon Gaming Limited envisioned a game that emulated the real-world property development process in the UK. They wanted to use actual property data and trends to make the game feel immersive and realistic. However, the complexity of integrating real-time property values, area trends, and the dynamic nature of the housing market into a fun and user-friendly gaming experience posed a significant challenge.
Our task was to design a mobile game that kept players entertained for hours while also incorporating the depth and complexity of real-world property trading. This included building a system that would handle player interactions seamlessly and keep them engaged for the long term.
Why HeadChannel?
Tycoon Gaming turned to HeadChannel for our extensive experience in both game development and custom software solutions. With our expertise in delivering complex projects involving real-time data integration and dynamic system design, we were the ideal partner to bring their vision for Property Magnate to life.
Our Approach
- Collaborative Discovery and Planning
We collaborated closely with Tycoon Gaming to understand their vision for Property Magnate. Our team of developers, designers, and business analysts engaged in workshops with the client, refining the core game mechanics, data integration requirements, and user interface designs.
- Data Integration
To give the game its realism, we used Zoopla’s extensive property data, including house prices and area trends. This data was integrated into the game, ensuring that players could buy, sell, and manage real-world properties with up-to-date information.
- Game Mechanics and User Experience
We focused on creating intuitive game mechanics that allowed players to easily navigate through buying, selling, and managing properties. Features such as the leader board and ‘Acquisition Agent’ added competitive elements, while detailed property data offered immersion in the UK real estate market.
- Cross-Platform Development
Property Magnate was designed to be accessible to a wide audience, so we developed it for both iOS and Android platforms. The game’s backend was built using ASP.NET ZERO, providing a robust and scalable system to handle user transactions and game updates in real-time.
Testimonial
“The owner generates income from the credits purchased by the players, The players are not only entertained but they can also improve their general trading skills while learning about property values across the UK at the same time HeadChannel have been instrumental in launching the game both on time and on budget. The service has been excellent and the game looks and feels just as I imagined. Brilliant!”
David Harding
Managing Director, Tycoon Gaming
The Outcome
The final product exceeded expectations, delivering a game that seamlessly blends entertainment with real-world data:
Real-World Data Integration: Players can buy, sell, and manage virtual properties based on actual property values and trends in the UK market.
Engaging Gameplay: Property Magnate’s leader board, real estate agents, and long-term investment strategy offer hours of entertainment and engagement for players.
Cross-Platform Access: With both iOS and Android versions, Property Magnate reaches a broad audience of real estate enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.
Education Through Entertainment: Players not only enjoy the game but also gain insights into UK property values and trading dynamics, sharpening their strategic thinking and investment skills.
About
Property Magnate is a unique mobile game that offers players the chance to build their property empire in the UK using real-world data. With over 30 million cyber versions of real UK properties, players are fully immersed in the dynamic and ever-changing UK real estate market.
