Scrums.com logomark
SovTech is now Scrums.com! Same company, new name.
Read more here

How much does it cost to build an app like

How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like Subway Surfers?

Scrums.com is revolutionizing the way growth companies scale their engineering teams. Our platform offers access to top-notch remote software engineering teams at an affordable subscription price.

Get started
Tick box
World-class development teams
Cube icon
Flexible subscriptions
How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like Subway Surfers?
SovTech UK software development
SovTech UK icon clock
statistics

Don't take our word for it

The stats are in our favour. Scrums.com doesn't just help you with your software development teams, we get you results that last.
95%
Sprint completion
82
Net promoter Score
1,200+
Projects delivered
13
Years of software specialistion
SovTech UK software development
SovTech-UK-Leading-Software-Development
SovTech graphic leaf
pricing

How much does it cost to build an app?

How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like Subway Surfers?

App Feature 01
App Feature 02
App Feature 03
App Feature 04
App Feature 05
App Feature 06
Get in touch
Arrow
App development

Develop Credibility and Trust

World-class app development that allows you to start, run and grow your business.

Building a custom app can boost your brand's trust and credibility, ultimately benefiting your business in the long run. We will discuss the following topics:

1. Reputation Management
2. Customer Support and Engagement
3. Data-Driven Decision Making
4. Demonstrating Social Responsibility

A well-made custom app can dramatically improve your brand's marketability and reputation. A trustworthy app will show that you are dedicated to providing top-notch goods and services. As a result of knowing they can rely on you, your clients and business partners will have more faith in you.

A custom app also strengthens your brand identification by demonstrating your professionalism and attention to detail.

Customer Support and Engagement
Blue plus sign

A custom app enables you to offer personalized customer support and engagement, helping you address the unique needs and pain points of your African target market. 

By incorporating in-app support features, such as chatbots, help centres, or direct communication channels, you can provide timely assistance to your users, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty. 

This level of support also encourages users to share their positive experiences with others, further boosting your brand's credibility.

Data-Driven Decision Making
Blue plus sign

You may get useful user data through custom app creation, giving you insights into user behavior and preferences. You may improve your app and broader business strategy by studying this data and making wise decisions.

Delivering a more individualized experience for your users is made possible by a data-driven strategy. This helps to increase their faith in your brand and ultimately ensures that they will stay visiting.

Demonstrating Social Responsibility
Blue plus sign

Putting money into a customized app that caters to your target market's needs demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility.

You can showcase your brand's dedication to having a beneficial influence by developing an app that takes into account regional difficulties, environmental issues, or social issues that are pertinent to your audience.

This thoughtful approach to app creation not only strengthens the integrity of your brand, but it also appeals to customers who value companies with a clear sense of mission.

Custom App development

Benefits of Custom App Development

World-class app development that allows you to start, run and grow your business.

Imagine custom app development as an expert chef crafting a personalised menu for their restaurant. Just as a meticulously planned and executed meal can leave diners with a memorable culinary experience, a custom app is specifically designed to cater to your business's distinct needs and objectives, leaving a lasting impression on your users. 

Investing in custom app development offers several advantages, including:

  1. Improved user experience
  2. Increased efficiency
  3. Competitive advantage
  4. Higher profitability
  5. Seamless Integration with Existing Systems
  6. Enhanced Flexibility and Adaptability
Improved user experience
Blue plus sign

A custom app allows you to create an interface that is tailored to your target audience, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. By focusing on the preferences and expectations of your users, you can craft an app that not only meets their needs but also delights them with personalized features and intuitive navigation.The best part? If you develop an app that your users love, you ensure that they keep coming back for more and turn them into lifelong customers.

Custom apps can be designed to streamline business processes and boost productivity. By automating repetitive tasks, integrating with existing systems, and providing real-time data access, custom apps empower your team to work more efficiently and make informed decisions quickly, just like a well-tailored suit that enables effortless movement and comfort.

A unique app helps you stand out from the competition and attract more customers. In a world where off-the-shelf solutions are abundant, a custom mobile app acts as a distinctive and exclusive suit that sets you apart in the crowd, showcasing your brand's personality and commitment to providing a superior experience.

A well-designed app can generate increased revenue and improve customer retention. By offering a memorable and engaging user experience, your custom app encourages users to continue using your services and make purchases. It's akin to wearing a sharp, tailored suit that not only grabs attention but also instils trust and confidence in your brand, ultimately resulting in increased profitability.

Custom app development enables seamless integration with your existing systems and third-party applications. This ensures a smooth flow of data between various platforms, enhancing communication and collaboration within your organization. The ability to integrate effortlessly is like having a versatile tool that easily connects and works in harmony with other components in your business ecosystem.

As your business evolves, a custom app can be easily modified or expanded to accommodate changing requirements and market trends. This adaptability is like having a dynamic strategy that can be adjusted and fine-tuned to suit your business's changing needs, ensuring continued relevance and success in an ever-changing environment.The benefits don’t just stop there though. If you want to build trust and credibility with your customers, a custom app is a great way to do so.

App development

Pivoting and Iterating

Investing in custom app development can be expensive, but being open to pivoting and iterating based on market feedback is crucial to ensure long-term success. By adapting your app to the ever-changing needs and preferences of your target market, you can stay ahead of the competition, increase user satisfaction, and maximize your return on investment.

Encourage users to provide feedback and reviews, which will help you identify pain points and areas for improvement. By addressing these concerns, you demonstrate your commitment to serving the unique needs of your users, enhancing your app's credibility and increasing user satisfaction. Tools like in-app surveys, app store reviews, or social media can be used to gather feedback and gauge user sentiment.

Iterate Based on User Data
Blue plus sign

Analyze user behaviour and engagement data to understand how your app is being used and identify potential bottlenecks or areas of friction. By making data-driven decisions, you can prioritize improvements and new features that will resonate with your audience, maximizing the impact of your development budget and efforts.

As you adapt your app based on market feedback, be prepared to allocate resources for ongoing updates and improvements. While this may increase your app's overall cost, the benefits include increased user satisfaction, reduced churn, and ultimately, higher long-term profitability. Regular updates also demonstrate your commitment to delivering a high-quality app experience tailored to your users' needs.

Adopt a flexible, agile development methodology that enables prompt iteration and change in response to market feedback.

Your app will stay relevant and helpful to your target market if you are receptive to user needs and can swiftly pivot and make adjustments.

By prioritizing products and enhancements that have the greatest impact, an agile methodology can also assist you in managing development expenses more successfully.

While it's essential to iterate and adapt your app based on user feedback, it's also crucial to balance this with innovation and forward-thinking. Continuously explore new technologies, trends, and market opportunities to ensure your app stays ahead of the curve and caters to the evolving needs of your user base. By striking the right balance between adaptation and innovation, you can maintain a competitive edge and secure long-term success for your app.

App development

The Importance of UX and UI

Creating an outstanding user experience and design is crucial for a successful app. A well-designed app should be visually appealing, intuitive, and user-friendly.

  1. Consistency: Consistent design elements throughout the app, such as typography, colours, and button styles, create a unified look and feel. This consistency reduces the cognitive load on users, helping them navigate your app with ease and understand its functionality more quickly.
  2. Simplicity: A simple and uncluttered interface reduces distractions and makes it easier for users to focus on the tasks at hand. Strive for a minimalistic design by eliminating unnecessary elements, using whitespace effectively, and prioritizing essential features.
  3. Feedback: Providing feedback, such as visual cues and confirmation messages, helps users understand the results of their actions. This can include animations for button clicks, success messages for completed tasks, or error messages when something goes wrong. Clear feedback enhances user satisfaction and encourages continued use of your app.
  1. Understand your target audience: Research your users' demographics, needs, preferences, and behaviours to tailor your app to their expectations. Conduct surveys, interviews, and usability testing to gather insights that help shape your app's features and design.
  2. Use clear navigation: Intuitive navigation is essential for a positive user experience. Implement well-organized menus, easily accessible search functions, and recognizable icons to help users find their way around your app effortlessly.
  3. Optimize for performance: Fast loading times and smooth performance are critical for user engagement. Optimize your app's code, reduce file sizes, and use efficient algorithms to ensure your app runs quickly and seamlessly on various devices.
The Impact of Good Design on App Adoption and Retention
Blue plus sign

Higher app adoption rates and greater client retention result from spending money on excellent design and user experience. A well-designed app has a higher likelihood of being passed along by users and being used again, which leads to better ratings, word-of-mouth advertising, and long-term success.

App development

Security Considerations for App Development

In today's interconnected digital world, app security is paramount. We take a look at some vital security considerations.

The Privacy Act of 1974 is the primary privacy regulation in America that regulates the sharing of data. The Privacy Act governs how federal agencies may gather, utilize, and disclose personal information. Individuals are given specific rights under it, including the ability to access and update their personal information, and federal agencies are required to protect such data from illegal disclosure.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for health information, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) for financial information, and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) for children's online data are just a few federal laws that deal with privacy and data sharing in addition to the Privacy Act. Additionally, each state has its own privacy laws that could offer additional protections.

Keep up with the latest security threats and best practices, such as incorporating multi-factor authentication, securing APIs, and using secure coding practices. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments can help identify potential weaknesses and protect your app from emerging threats.

Working with Trusted Vendors
Blue plus sign

Select a reputable development partner with a proven track record in security best practices, like Scrums. A reliable vendor will prioritize security throughout the development process and help you build a secure app that meets industry standards and best practices.

Scrums.com provides high quality engineering teams to scaling enterprises at lower costs. Scrums.com designs, builds, deploys and maintains custom software that gives scale-ups the opportunity to grow world-class businesses.

Scrums.com provides high quality engineering teams to scaling enterprises at lower costs. Scrums.com designs, builds, deploys and maintains custom software that gives scale-ups the opportunity to grow world-class businesses.

How much does it cost to build an app?
Blue plus sign
testimonials

Don't take our word for it

Hear it from global businesses like yours
Officebox
"Scrums.com is the best solution for any business who does not have the capacity to scale engineering internally."
Fincheck
FinCheck
"I have found the teams to be extremely obliging when taking on projects. Would highly recommend."
Repobot
"My experience with Scrums.com has been a delight. I look forward to the many more projects together."
MACS Software
“The engineering team I worked with was extremely experienced. They knew exactly how to solve my problems, and did so effortlessly.”
Officebox
"Scrums.com is the best solution for any business who does not have the capacity to scale engineering internally."
Fincheck
FinCheck
"I have found the teams to be extremely obliging when taking on projects. Would highly recommend."
Repobot
"My experience with Scrums.com has been a delight. I look forward to the many more projects together."
MACS Software
“The engineering team I worked with was extremely experienced. They knew exactly how to solve my problems, and did so effortlessly.”
Officebox
"Scrums.com is the best solution for any business who does not have the capacity to scale engineering internally."
Fincheck
FinCheck
"I have found the teams to be extremely obliging when taking on projects. Would highly recommend."
Repobot
"My experience with Scrums.com has been a delight. I look forward to the many more projects together."
MACS Software
“The engineering team I worked with was extremely experienced. They knew exactly how to solve my problems, and did so effortlessly.”
Scale Your Development Team
Faster With Scrums.com
Get in touch and let's get started
Book a Demo
Tick
Cost-effective
Tick
Reliable
Tick
Scalable
Scrums.com logomark
SovTech is now Scrums.com! Same company, new name.
Read more here
Subway Surfers

How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like Subway Surfers?

Explore the factors affecting the development cost of a Subway Surfers-like game in the U.S. market.
How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like... Hero Image
Reliability

95%

Quality user stories into production rate

Happy customers

82

Net Promoter Score (NPS)

Consistent delivery

1,200+

Successful projects delivered

Work with experts

13

Years of software specialisation

Subway Surfers has become a household name in the mobile gaming world, captivating players with its vibrant graphics, fast-paced gameplay, and engaging mechanics. As an endless runner game, it offers players the thrill of dodging trains, collecting coins, and unlocking characters in an ever-changing environment. The game's popularity highlights the potential for success in the mobile gaming industry, but developing an app similar to Subway Surfers comes with its own unique complexities and challenges.

Creating a mobile game like Subway Surfers requires a deep understanding of game design, user engagement strategies, and the technical requirements of modern gaming apps. Developers must consider multiple factors, such as platform choices, user demographics, and the gaming experience itself, while also navigating a competitive market filled with innovative titles.

In this article, we will examine the various elements that influence the cost of developing a Subway Surfers-like game. From platform compatibility and feature sets to design and ongoing maintenance, we will provide a roadmap to understand how each aspect impacts the overall development costs.

Platform and Device Compatibility

The choice of platform is crucial when developing a Subway Surfers-like game, as it directly influences costs and user reach.

iOS vs. Android:

Both platforms dominate the mobile gaming landscape, with Android holding a larger market share and a more diverse range of devices, while iOS typically attracts users who are willing to invest in premium apps. To maximize reach and engagement, developers often choose to build for both platforms, which can significantly affect the development budget.

Native vs. Cross-Platform Development:

Developing a native app for iOS and Android can lead to better performance and user experience, as each version is optimized for its respective platform. However, maintaining separate codebases can also drive up costs. Cross-platform frameworks like Unity or Flutter allow for a single codebase to run on multiple platforms, reducing development time and costs but potentially sacrificing performance and access to platform-specific features.

Beyond Mobile:

Consideration for compatibility with tablets and potential web versions can also impact development costs. Expanding the game to various devices increases complexity, necessitating more extensive testing and additional features tailored for larger screens or different input methods.

Basic Features
Plus icon
Intermediate Features
Plus icon
Advanced Features
Plus icon
Looking for the most value for money app development?
Join over 400+ companies already growing with Scrums.com.

Design and User Experience (UX/UI)

The design and user experience of a Subway Surfers-like game are paramount to attracting and retaining players.

User-Centric Design:

In the highly competitive mobile gaming market, users expect a polished and engaging experience. The game should feature vibrant graphics, smooth animations, and an intuitive interface that allows players to jump right into the action. User experience design is critical for ensuring that players can easily navigate menus, settings, and gameplay without frustration.

Engagement through Design:

The visual appeal of the game is a significant factor in user retention. Incorporating engaging design elements, such as dynamic backgrounds and fluid character movements, can create a more immersive experience. Additionally, clear visual cues during gameplay help players understand mechanics and objectives, enhancing overall satisfaction.

Balancing Design and Functionality:


While investing in high-quality design can increase upfront costs, the potential long-term benefits in terms of user engagement and retention can justify this investment. A focus on aesthetic and functional design can lead to higher user ratings and more significant word-of-mouth promotion, both critical for the game's success.

Integrations with Third-Party Services or External Systems

Integrating third-party services can significantly enhance the functionality and user experience of a Subway Surfers-like game.

Analytics Integration: Utilizing analytics tools such as Google Analytics or Flurry allows developers to track user behavior, identify engagement patterns, and make data-driven decisions to improve the game. Understanding how players interact with different features can inform updates and marketing strategies.

Social Media Integration: Allowing players to share their achievements on social media platforms can enhance community engagement and promote the game. Integrating sharing features requires working with APIs from platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, which can impact development costs.

Payment Processing: If the game offers in-app purchases, integrating secure payment gateways such as Stripe or PayPal is essential for providing a smooth purchasing experience. This integration adds complexity and requires compliance with financial regulations.

Database & Back-End Infrastructure

A solid backend infrastructure is crucial for a mobile game, particularly for managing user data and real-time interactions.

Real-Time Data Management:

For a Subway Surfers-like game, efficient data management is essential for handling user progress, scores, and in-game purchases. The backend must support real-time updates to ensure that players receive immediate feedback and that their progress is accurately saved.

Scalable Infrastructure:

As the user base grows, the app must scale effectively. Utilizing cloud-based solutions like AWS or Google Cloud enables developers to handle varying demand levels while ensuring high availability and performance. This scalability is critical during peak usage times, such as during major updates or promotional events.

Data Security and Privacy

Given the potential for sensitive user data, implementing robust security measures is vital. Compliance with data protection regulations, such as the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), is necessary to safeguard user information and build trust with the player base.

Ongoing Maintenance and Updates

Ongoing maintenance is a critical aspect of any mobile game, especially for a Subway Surfers-like app where user expectations are continually evolving.

Regular Updates:


To keep users engaged, developers must frequently release updates that introduce new features, enhance existing functionalities, and fix bugs. This may involve adding new characters, environments, and gameplay modes, ensuring that the game remains fresh and exciting for returning players.

Compliance and Security Updates:


For apps that handle personal information and in-app purchases, ensuring compliance with the latest regulations is crucial. Regular security updates are necessary to protect user data from breaches and cyber threats, which can lead to costly legal repercussions if not addressed promptly.

User Feedback Integration:


Incorporating user feedback into updates is vital for maintaining user satisfaction. Developers should monitor app reviews and user comments to identify pain points and opportunities for improvement, ensuring a more user-centric product over time.

Team Expertise and Location

The expertise of your development team significantly impacts the quality and success of a mobile game.

Specialized Skills Required:


Developing a Subway Surfers-like game requires a diverse set of skills, including mobile game development, UX/UI design, backend development, and game mechanics expertise. Teams should be proficient in integrating real-time databases and ensuring smooth gameplay across multiple devices.

U.S.-Based vs. Offshore Development:


While offshore development may offer lower costs, U.S.-based teams bring an understanding of local market preferences and legal requirements that can greatly benefit the development process. A U.S.-based team can ensure that the game aligns with consumer expectations and complies with regulations specific to the U.S. market.

Development Tools and Technologies:


Investing in the right tools and technologies is crucial for efficient custom app development. Utilizing established frameworks and libraries can expedite the development process and enhance the game’s performance.

Hidden Costs & Miscellaneous Factors

QA & Testing: Quality assurance (QA) is essential for ensuring a smooth user experience in any mobile game. Specific testing requirements may include:

  • Device Compatibility Testing: Ensuring the app functions seamlessly across a range of devices with varying screen sizes and hardware capabilities.
  • Performance Testing: Assessing the app’s performance under different loads to ensure reliability, especially during peak usage times.
  • Security Testing: Conducting thorough security assessments to protect user data and payment information.

App Store Fees and Guidelines: Launching a mobile game involves understanding the associated costs and guidelines:

  • Google Play Store and Apple App Store Fees: Developers must pay a one-time registration fee to publish their apps. Additionally, both platforms take a percentage of revenue generated through in-app purchases, which must be factored into pricing strategies.
  • U.S. Tax Considerations: Understanding tax implications for online sales in the U.S. is essential for budgeting and compliance.

Legal and Compliance Costs: Compliance is critical for gaming apps, particularly regarding:

  • Data Protection Regulations: Adhering to regulations such as COPPA to protect user data and privacy.
  • User Consent Management: Implementing systems to manage user consent for data collection and processing is especially important for apps targeting younger audiences.

What Makes This App Category Unique in Terms of Development

Developing a Subway Surfers-like game presents unique challenges and opportunities in the mobile app landscape. One of the primary challenges is creating a product that stands out in a crowded marketplace while ensuring a seamless user experience and compliance with strict guidelines.

Market trends indicate a growing interest in mobile gaming, particularly among younger demographics who seek quick, engaging gameplay experiences. Features such as social sharing, leaderboards, and regular content updates are becoming increasingly essential for attracting and retaining users.

Having expertise in the specific nuances of mobile game development provides a significant advantage. Understanding user behavior and preferences in the U.S. market enables developers to tailor solutions that resonate with their audience, ensuring that the app not only meets but exceeds user expectations.

Want to see your app idea brought to life? 

At Scrums.com, our expert team of U.S.-focused developers can customize your project, advising you on the most efficient ways to build your app. Whether it's a mobile game like Subway Surfers or another innovative concept, we're here to create something exceptional. Reach out for a custom development estimate today, and let's turn your vision into reality!