The impact of web shops on the business of games – featuring Jeff Shouger (Niantic) & Artem Liubutov (Xsolla)

In this premiere episode, hosts Chris Hewish and Lia Ballentine explore one of the biggest shifts in the mobile gaming industry: the rise of web shops.Through cinematic storytelling, real-world examples, and conversations with Niantic CFO Jeff Shouger and Xsolla’s Artem Liubutov, we unpack how developers are reclaiming control over margins, data, and their connection to players.You’ll hear how studios are moving beyond the 30% platform tax, why conversion rates on web shops are exceeding expectations, and what it means to build a monetization experience outside the app store. This isn’t just about commerce, it’s about power, strategy, and the future of the game business itself.If you're a game developer, executive, product lead, or investor, this episode offers a powerful lens on what’s next in mobile game monetization.For more insights and resources, visit xsolla.com/podcast. Want to join the conversation? Follow and comment on our LinkedIn page at The Business of Games Podcast. That’s where we’ll be sharing updates, highlights, and continuing the discussion. And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, review, and share the podcast with friends who want to learn more about the business of games.