Which is more important for long-term success: MAU or average session length, and why?

Average session length is more important for long-term success than MAU (Monthly Active Users), because it directly reflects the depth of player engagement and its potential for monetization and organic growth. MAU indicates the total number of unique players who have accessed the experience in a given month. While a high MAU suggests a large player base, it doesn't reveal how engaged those players are. A high MAU with short average session lengths indicates that players are trying the game but not sticking around, suggesting underlying problems with the game's core loop, content, or overall appeal. Average session length, on the other hand, measures the average amount of time players spend in the game per session. Longer session lengths demonstrate that players are deeply engaged and enjoying the experience, which translates to increased opportunities for monetization through in-game purchases or advertising. Moreover, engaged players are more likely to become advocates for the game, spreading positive word-of-mouth and attracting new players organically. A game with a smaller MAU but long average session lengths can be more sustainable in the long run, as it indicates a loyal and engaged player base. For example, a game with 10,000 MAU and an average session length of 60 minutes is likely more successful than a game with 100,000 MAU and an average session length of 5 minutes, because the engaged players are far more valuable for generating revenue and fostering community growth.