GameMaker: Studio developers are now able to integrate the Pocket Change universal loyalty currency into their apps, thanks to a freshly inked partnership between YoYo Games and Pocket Change.

The currency is designed to drive player engagement by rewarding in-game actions, meting out Pocket Change tokens that can be exchanged for real-world rewards in the Pocket Change store.

Like the arcades of yore

"We are excited to partner with YoYo Games and be a part of GameMaker: Studio, which broadens our goal of driving more value to game developers," explained Pocket Change CEO Ari Mir.

"By rewarding engagement, developers keep users happy - ultimately increasing retention."

GameMaker: Studio developers can access the Pocket Change SDK free of charge, and the company promises that it's lightweight and easy to implement.

Into integration

YoYo Games has already added Pocket Change to four of its own titles, and since the currency is universal, tokens earned in any Pocket Change app contribute to a player's overall balance.

As such, the system encourages users to seek out Pocket Change games, and return to them time after time.

"The integration of Pocket Change into GameMaker: Studio is a part of our continued commitment to provide developers access to the best tools for creating world-class games," added YoYo Games CEO Sandy Duncan.

"Pocket Change gives developers a unique solution to reward users for playing a game, increasing user retention and engagement."