Hi guys, We posted the 3rd part of our series about what we observe in session play. You can find it here: http://www.gamasutra.com/blogs/JamesLiu/20130510/192054/Effect_of_Sessions_and_App_Gifting_on_Nameless_AppStore_Ranks.php Anyone else notice that session play has an affect on their rankings? We're wondering if we see our odd behavior because we're in such a odd position. Kudos!
Love your writing. You put a lot of thought into these, and I'm getting some good information. Looking forward to your next one.
I'm pretty sure it's just the App Store servers decaying old downloads. Our apps (multiplayer always online quiz game and single player puzzle-action game) both see similar shifts. Both happen at roughly the same time. Edit to add: While I love the idea of sessions being calculated into the ranks I don't think it's happening today.
Very interesting read again, just like the last two ones. Really like it that you are so open about your experiences. If there is a "recommended reading for app developers" somewhere, your pieces should be on the list.