How a hit the target campaign works
Hit the target is a simple aim-and-shoot game. Targets appear on the screen and move along paths you choose. Players tap or click on them as fast as they can. Each hit gives points, and the game ends when the time runs out.
Like most Scratcher games, it usually starts with a short sign-up form. People give their name and email, and perhaps a newsletter permission. Then they play. When the game is over, they see their score and the result. You decide what a good score is worth: an instant prize, a discount code or a place in a draw.
Everything can look like your brand. You upload the targets, the background and even the cursor. Change the speed, the paths and the number of points per target to make the game easier or harder.
Because one round only takes a short while, the game fits well into a busy day. People can play on the bus, in a break or while they wait in line — and still feel they have done something worth a prize.
When to use a hit the target game
The target game is fast and full of action. It works well when you want to:
- Get attention quickly: the game starts in seconds and is easy to understand.
- Build excitement before an event: concerts, matches, store openings and product launches.
- Highlight products: your products or logo can be the targets.
- Bring people back: a score invites players to try again and do better.
Retail and webshops, food and drink, sports clubs, events and travel brands can all use it. A travel brand can let people hit suitcases and suns. A health brand can use fruit and water bottles. A sports club can let fans aim at footballs.
5 ideas for your hit the target game
- Discount shooting range: targets show 10%, 20% and 30% off. The score decides which discount people win.
- Matchday challenge: fans hit footballs before kick-off and enter a draw for match tickets.
- Product hunt: mix your new product in with other items, and only the new product gives points, so players have to look closely.
- Seasonal fun: pumpkins at Halloween, snowballs at Christmas or Easter eggs in spring.
- Festival warm-up: hit the band logos and win tickets or merch before the event.
Tips for a hit the target game that converts
Tip #1: Start easy
A game that feels impossible makes people give up. Let the targets move slowly enough that everyone gets a few hits. Ask a few colleagues to play before launch, and adjust the speed if most of them miss the winning score by a lot.
Tip #2: Make targets big enough for a thumb
Most people will play on their phone.
- Use targets that are easy to tap.
- Keep the background calm, so the targets stand out.
- Test the game on a small screen before you go live.
Tip #3: Be clear about what people can win
Show the prize on the start page and tell people what score they need. A clear goal makes people try harder. Use instant wins, unique discount codes or daily draws — see the options on our prizes page.
Tip #4: Collect the right data
Ask for an email and a newsletter permission before the game. If you want to know more, add one question that helps you send better offers later. Read more about lead generation with games.
Tip #5: Use the score to keep people playing
Let people play more than once, and show them their best score. A leaderboard adds a friendly competition and gives fans a reason to come back.
Tip #6: Send the data where you need it
Connect Scratcher with your email tool or CRM, so new sign-ups get a welcome email right away. See our integrations. When the campaign is over, look at how many people played, how many signed up and how often they came back. Use what you learn to plan your next game.
Looking for something similar? The drop game is about catching instead of aiming, and smash it lets players smash objects for points.
