How to use this calculator
- Enter the cohort size at the start date.
- Choose a retention rate measured over one consistent period.
- Enter the number and length of forecast periods.
- Review retained players and cumulative active player-periods.
#2858 · Sports & Gaming Tool
Matchmaking Queue Retention Forecast Calculator
Project the remaining active players in a cohort using an initial player count, a measured retention rate, and a forecast horizon. The calculator applies compound retention, reports projected retained and churned players, and estimates cumulative active player-days. It is designed for transparent scenario planning rather than claiming that one historical rate will remain unchanged.
Calculator
Retention assumptionsFormula
Retained players after n periods = starting players × retention rateⁿ
Cumulative active player-periods sum the projected active count after each period.
What the result means
The main result is the projected number still active at the end of the horizon if the same retention rate repeats.
Use a cohort-specific observed rate. Product launches, seasonality, content releases, and aging cohorts can make future retention differ.
Example calculation
A 10,000-player cohort retaining 85% each week for six weeks is projected to have 3,771 players active at the end, or 37.71% of the starting cohort.
Tips for better results
- Do not mix daily, weekly, and monthly retention rates.
- Segment forecasts by acquisition source or player type.
- Compare a baseline with lower and higher retention scenarios.
- Reforecast when actual cohort data arrives.
- Treat rounded player counts as planning estimates.
Frequently asked questions
Does the retention rate compound each period?
Yes. The calculator multiplies the remaining cohort by the same retention rate in every period.
Can I use weekly retention for a monthly forecast?
Yes, if you express the horizon as a whole number of weekly periods and set seven days per period.
What are cumulative active player-periods?
They are the sum of projected active players after each forecast period, useful for workload or monetization planning.
Does the forecast include returning churned players?
No. The simple model treats players who leave the retained cohort as churned for the remaining horizon.
Why should I segment player cohorts?
Different acquisition sources, regions, or play styles can have distinct retention patterns that a blended rate hides.
Related calculators
Retention model definitions
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Starting cohort | Players active at period zero |
| Period retention | Share remaining after one period |
| Forecast length | Number of times retention compounds |