23 viral Instagram Reels made by gaming apps
These Instagram Reels from gaming apps show how to make games look fun and addictive. You'll see gameplay moments, wins, and exciting features that make people want to download.
Want help making Reels like this? We can help.
Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral Tiktok strategies for gaming apps
- Viral marketing trends for gaming apps
- Viral marketing strategies for gaming apps
Morpeko's Electric Debut, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Pokémon GO shows Morpeko materializing from an electric streak in real-world locations, then transforms between its Full Belly and Hangry modes during battles.
The hook works because it starts with that mysterious yellow energy zipping through familiar streets before revealing the new Pokémon. Your brain wants to know what that streak is, so you keep watching.
For Pokémon GO players, seeing a brand new Pokémon with a unique form-changing ability triggers serious FOMO. Everyone wants to be first to catch something rare. The video shows actual gameplay mechanics like Team GO Rocket battles and the "NICE!" prompt, so existing players can immediately picture how they'll use Morpeko.
The pacing hits perfectly for short-form content. Quick cuts between AR shots and game interface keep your attention locked. Plus, the "Simulated game footage" text manages expectations while still showing the exciting stuff.
The Minecraft Ender-Eclipse, 14.4M+ views
In this Instagram Reel from Minecraft, what looks like a solar eclipse turns out to be an Enderman's eyes appearing with that signature creepy sound.
The genius is in the slow build-up. You watch this dark square moving across a white one, thinking it's just some space thing. Then boom - those purple eyes appear and your brain immediately goes "oh no, I looked at an Enderman."
For Minecraft players, this taps into that shared trauma of accidentally staring at an Enderman. Comments like "I turned my head away so quick" show how the video makes you react like you're actually in the game. It's one of the classic viral formats we have noticed - taking a game mechanic and turning it into a relatable experience.
The brevity makes it perfect for rewatching. At under 10 seconds, you can loop it multiple times to catch details or show friends. The sound design is crucial here - that "vwoop" noise is instantly recognizable and adds the jump scare element that makes people want to share it.
A Jar of Colourful Balls, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from 5-Minute Crafts starts with a woman "accidentally" dropping a jar of colorful balls, then shows how to turn them into Angry Birds characters for a craft contest.
The opening stumble acts like a pattern interrupt. You're scrolling and suddenly there's chaos - glass breaking, balls everywhere. That sharp sound grabs attention immediately and makes you stick around to see what happens next.
What really drives engagement is the #AngryCraftsChallenge contest. The promise of "fantastic prizes" and limited-edition merchandise gets people creating their own content and tagging the challenge. This turns viewers into content creators, which multiplies the reach way beyond just watching.
The transformation from simple ping pong balls to recognizable Angry Birds characters satisfies that completion urge. Your brain wants to see the finished product, so retention stays high. The bright colors and hands-on crafting also provide that satisfying tactile appeal that works well on visual platforms.
The Shining Teapot, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Pokémon GO shows ordinary café items starting to glow purple and levitate before getting sucked into a mysterious vortex, ending with an October 31st date reveal.
The hook works because it presents unexplained phenomena in a normal setting. Glowing teapots and floating chairs create this "found footage" feel that makes your brain work overtime trying to figure out what's happening.
But the real engagement driver was unintentional. Comments show this became a lightning rod for Mimikyu fans who've been waiting forever for that Pokémon. People used this teaser as a platform to voice their frustration: "they're literally giving us anyone but Mimikyu." Even negative engagement counts for the algorithm, so all that passionate complaining actually boosted the video's reach.
The progressive reveal keeps you watching. First subtle glow, then full levitation, then dramatic vortex. Each step makes you wonder what's coming next. The October 31st date creates clear FOMO for an upcoming Halloween event, giving players something concrete to anticipate.
The Calculated Draw, 61M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Chess.com shows Magnus Carlsen playing against Praggnanandhaa, with a "loading" animation edited over Magnus's head before he offers a draw that surprises his opponent.
The main trigger is putting a meme element on top of serious chess. That loading animation makes Magnus feel relatable instead of intimidatingly smart. Everyone understands a loading icon, so even non-chess players can laugh at the joke.
Magnus Carlsen's authority makes the content work. When he says it's a draw, people believe him because he's Magnus. Praggnanandhaa's genuine surprise adds drama - if another Grandmaster is confused, Magnus must have seen something incredible. This pattern keeps popping up in our breakdowns of viral content - using one person's reaction to amplify another's expertise.
The text overlay "BRO CALCULATED EVERYTHING" creates a simple narrative that makes chess accessible. Instead of complex analysis, you get "Magnus is really smart and saw the future." The 11-second length is perfect for multiple views, and the beat drop timing makes it feel like a proper meme.
The Anatomy of a Heartfelt Victory Hug, 19M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Chess.com captures an 18-year-old world champion immediately hugging his father after winning, set to "7 Years" by Lukas Graham.
The emotional core hits universally. Seeing someone achieve something massive and immediately seek out their parent triggers that deep family bond feeling. The "18-year-old" detail makes it even more impressive - this kid just beat the world and his first instinct is to hug dad.
The song choice amplifies everything. "7 Years" is about growing up and family relationships, so it perfectly soundtracks this moment of a young person reaching a life milestone. The familiar melody draws people in and the lyrics make the hug feel even more meaningful.
Comments like "My happiness is off the sky" and the Indian flag emojis show this tapped into national pride too. When someone from your country wins big, their victory becomes your victory. People would share this to celebrate not just the player, but what he represents for their community.
Shadow Ho-Oh's Descent, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Pokémon GO shows Ho-Oh flying across a sunset that transforms into a blood moon as the Pokémon becomes wreathed in shadow energy.
The unexpected music choice drives most of the engagement. Using what sounds like Crystal Castles instead of typical Pokémon music creates an immediate double-take moment. People familiar with that electronic sound style would comment "crystal castles!!!! had to double take" because it's so unexpected for a Pokémon video.
The visual progression from light to dark tells a micro-story of corruption. Starting with a beautiful sunset, then shifting to an ominous blood moon with shadow effects creates this sense of something going wrong. That transformation narrative keeps people watching to see the full change.
For Pokémon GO players, Shadow versions are rare and powerful, so this teases something exclusive. The dramatic final pose with Ho-Oh diving toward the camera makes it feel epic and important. The 11-second format is perfect for capturing that "did you see this?" sharing impulse.
The Flight of Festive Engagement, 1.6M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Roblox starts with "Place your hands here" arrows, then reveals a flying noob avatar through a festive winter landscape.
The interactive opening is the key hook. "Place your hands here" breaks the passive watching pattern and makes you participate, even if you know it won't actually do anything. Your brain gets primed for a reveal, so you stick around for the payoff.
The noob avatar choice creates instant connection with the Roblox community. That simple yellow character represents the game itself - seeing it in a festive, magical context feels wholesome and nostalgic. Comments like "This is too cute" show how the familiar character in a new setting triggers positive emotions.
But what really boosted engagement was the Turkey situation. The comments reveal tons of Turkish users demanding "OPEN IN TURKEY!!!" because Roblox was banned there. This created passionate, localized engagement that had nothing to do with the holiday content but massively increased comment volume and visibility.
Hell's Kitchen Roblox, 1.2M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Roblox shows Gordon Ramsay's voice paired with blocky chef avatars in a virtual Hell's Kitchen setup, complete with his signature insults and pressure.
Gordon Ramsay's voice is instantly recognizable and creates immediate brand recognition. Hearing him say "What are you doing? Get cooking!" triggers memories of the show and that high-pressure kitchen environment. For us, it looks very familiar, because it's a proven format we've documented many times - taking a strong personality and putting them in an unexpected context.
The juxtaposition of intense adult reality TV with child-friendly Roblox blocks creates novelty and humor. People are curious to see how Hell's Kitchen translates into a virtual world. The fast editing mimics the show's energy and keeps attention high.
Lines like "That looks appalling" and "You're done" tap into the competitive fear of disappointing Ramsay. Even in a game setting, people don't want to be the one getting yelled at. This challenge element makes players want to try the experience themselves.
A Roblox Bait-and-Switch, 2.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Roblox starts with "POV: enjoying a beautiful sunset in the desert" but quickly turns into a horror survival game with monsters and a "Everyone died" game over screen.
The bait-and-switch is the primary driver. You expect a peaceful desert walk based on the text and calm music, then suddenly there's fire, blood moons, and monsters attacking. That violation of expectation jolts your attention and makes you want to see how bad it gets.
The POV format makes it feel personal. Instead of watching someone else play, you're put in the position of the character experiencing this horror shift. When the monsters appear, it feels like they're coming for you specifically.
The rapid escalation from sunset to nightmare maintains tension. Each cut reveals something worse - distant fires, blood moon, shadow monsters, zombie attacks. Your brain stays locked in trying to process each new threat. The "Everyone died... Final Distance: 19308 m" ending gives closure while showing this is actually a playable game people can try to beat.
Minecraft Movie, 8M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Minecraft shows the official movie trailer with Jack Black as Steve and Jason Momoa as Gabriel, featuring iconic game mechanics like water bucket saves and Elytra flying.
The massive appeal comes from seeing beloved game elements brought to life with Hollywood production values. The water bucket save, Nether portals, and Creeper explosions are instantly recognizable to millions of players. Each reference acts like an inside joke that makes fans feel seen and understood.
Jack Black and Jason Momoa add star power while fitting their roles. Jack Black's comedic energy matches Steve's adventurous spirit, and seeing these actors navigate Minecraft's blocky world creates that "celebrities playing our game" appeal. The casting feels natural rather than forced.
The rapid-fire showcase of game mechanics keeps retention high. Within minutes you see breeding, portal creation, Elytra flying, TNT explosions, and minecart chases. It's like a greatest hits compilation of Minecraft features wrapped in a movie plot. Comments about the water bucket save show fans appreciate these specific gameplay references.
Minecraft Mosh Pit, 8.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Minecraft shows a quick AR-style transformation where a person's face gets covered by a pixelated sheep head, then a fox head, each with their signature game sounds.
The disorienting opening angle creates immediate curiosity. You're looking up at a ceiling wondering what you're about to see, then someone pops into frame before getting covered by Minecraft animals. That surprise element hooks attention in the crucial first seconds.
The sound design is crucial. Each visual - the person appearing, the sheep, the fox - gets its authentic game sound effect. For Minecraft players, those "baa" and yelp sounds are deeply familiar and satisfying. It's a recurring element we've seen in multiple viral case studies - using audio cues that connect with existing fan knowledge.
At under 5 seconds, it's perfectly optimized for replaying. You almost have to watch it multiple times to catch all the details. The brevity makes sharing effortless - it's so quick that sending it to someone feels like no commitment, but the payoff is memorable enough to be worth it.
Roblox's "The Hunt" Showcase, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Roblox features dozens of unique avatars in black "THE HUNT" tracksuits performing synchronized dances to Cochise's "Hatchback" music.
The unexpected music choice creates the biggest hook. Hearing a trendy Cochise track instead of typical corporate background music signals that Roblox "gets" current youth culture. Comments like "Roblox listening to Cochise???" show how this surprise choice sparked discussion and made the platform feel more culturally aware.
The rapid-fire showcase of unique avatars keeps eyes glued. Each quick cut reveals someone new with elaborate customization - toast head, googly eyes, skull mask, shark head. You want to rewatch to catch all the creative character designs and spot your favorites.
The synchronized dancing creates satisfying visual rhythm while the diverse avatars show off the customization possibilities. Players can see themselves in these characters or aspire to reach that level of unique design. The "THE HUNT" branding builds exclusivity and FOMO around this special event.
The Algorithmic Charm of a Roblox Meme, 5.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Roblox shows a basic avatar saying "can I have chez-burger please" and "pizza" in a childlike voice over aesthetically pleasing landscape backgrounds.
The juxtaposition drives the appeal. You have this crude, blocky character with a silly voice requesting "chezburger" while gorgeous, almost ethereal landscapes play in the background. That contrast between low-fi character and high-fi visuals creates cognitive dissonance that's funny and memorable.
The nostalgic meme phrases tap into early internet culture. "Chez-burger" and "nom nom nom" feel familiar to anyone who grew up with meme culture, creating that shared understanding feeling. The repetitive, hypnotic structure makes it easy to rewatch and quote.
The official Roblox endorsement amplifies everything. When the platform itself posts meme content, it shows they understand their community's humor. This official backing turns what could be random user content into a cultural moment that feels significant and worth sharing.
The BSF Garden Test, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Roblox shows six different garden styles numbered 1-6 and asks "If you know your bsf so well, which garden are they choosing?"
The social challenge format drives engagement directly. Instead of just showing gardens, it asks you to think about your best friend and predict their choice. This prompts immediate sharing - either tagging your friend in comments or DMing them to get their actual answer.
The rapid showcase of numbered options makes participation easy. Six distinct styles shown quickly with clear numbering means anyone can comment "3" or "my bsf would definitely pick 4" without much effort. Low barrier to engagement is crucial for high interaction rates.
The "bsf" (best friend) framing makes it feel like a friendship test rather than just a game showcase. People enjoy these low-stakes challenges that let them demonstrate how well they know someone. Comments like "3 ------------->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>" show direct participation in the intended game.
The LEGO Transformation Tease, 3.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Fortnite shows Marvel characters dancing, then instructs viewers to "shake your phone" during a countdown before transforming them into LEGO minifigures.
The interactive countdown creates artificial engagement. "Shake your phone in... 3... 2... 1... NOW!" makes you feel involved even though shaking won't change anything. That anticipation loop significantly boosts watch time as people wait for the promised transformation.
The art style shift delivers a strong novelty payoff. Seeing realistic Fortnite characters become blocky LEGO versions while maintaining the same dance creates satisfying continuity with surprising change. Three major brands (Fortnite, Marvel, LEGO) combining creates broad appeal across different fanbases.
The timing with the LEGO Fortnite game launch makes this feel like a significant announcement rather than just a random transformation. People would share this as news about the collaboration, not just as entertainment. Comments using community in-jokes like "Report a problem?" show this triggered that delightful unexpectedness reaction.
The PUBG Mobile x Attack on Titan Crossover, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from PUBG MOBILE shows characters using ODM gear to fight Titans in a walled city environment, complete with the Attack on Titan basement mystery reference.
The IP fusion creates immediate appeal across two massive fanbases. PUBG players get curious about AOT elements while AOT fans want to experience that world in a playable format. This crossover effect multiplies the potential audience beyond either property alone.
The faithful adaptation of AOT mechanics matters more than just cosmetic changes. Showing actual ODM gear functionality and Titan combat suggests real gameplay transformation, not just themed skins. For AOT fans, this represents wish fulfillment - actually getting to use the gear and fight Titans.
The basement reference taps directly into AOT lore mysteries. That photograph and glasses hint at Zeke Yeager and the central plot mysteries that drive fan obsession. Comments about "the basement" show how this specific detail resonated with series followers who understand the significance.
Title for this content, 2.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Fortnite uses the "was [doing activity] and saw this" format to show iconic game locations appearing in mundane real-world settings, with melancholic Paradigm dialogue about nothing being real.
The nostalgic audio creates deep emotional resonance. The Paradigm's lines "It's too late. What's done is done... I'm not real. None of this is" tap into Fortnite lore while suggesting existential themes about game worlds being temporary. This hits differently than simple "remember this location?" nostalgia.
The familiar meme format ("was flying and saw this") makes extraordinary game elements feel like accidental discoveries. Seeing The Agency crater or a pirate ship framed as casual encounters creates that surreal quality that makes content shareable and quotable.
Comments like "walk down memory lane" and "Why am I crying" show this triggered genuine emotional responses beyond simple recognition. The combination of beloved locations with philosophical audio about reality creates unexpected depth that encourages sharing and discussion about what the game means to people.
The Sentient Sanctuary, 10M+ views
This Instagram Reel from PUBG MOBILE features talking furniture items - a giraffe toy, violin, and steampunk lamp - discussing home renovations and promoting the Craftsman's Pass event.
The anthropomorphized objects create immediate novelty. Hearing a giraffe compliment renovations and a violin explain game features breaks every expectation about PUBG content. This "Toy Story" approach makes the promotional message feel charming rather than pushy.
The narrative structure builds engagement through mini-storytelling. There's suspense ("Someone's coming!"), character introductions (the lamp joining), and world-building (mentions of the warehouse with "siblings"). This story wrapper makes the feature explanation feel organic rather than like a direct sales pitch.
The violin using its bow as a pointer to highlight UI elements is clever integration of character traits with information delivery. Instead of generic overlays, you get personality-driven explanations that feel more trustworthy. The "What are you waiting for? Come Home for free perks!" ending provides clear value proposition while maintaining the charming tone.
Machop's Cave Tease, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Pokémon GO shows a mysterious cave environment with guttural sounds before revealing the Community Day Classic announcement with targeting graphics.
The cave setting primes expectations perfectly. Dark, rocky environment with creature-like sounds hints at a strong, possibly fighting-type Pokémon before any explicit reveal. This subtle environmental storytelling makes the eventual Machop announcement feel logical rather than random.
The curiosity gap drives retention through the short clip. Starting with unexplained sounds and shadows makes you want to see what's revealed. The targeting reticle and "ping" sound create that familiar game interface transition that players recognize as significant announcements.
Comments immediately shift to strategic planning - "I need more Machop candy for Gigantamax Machamp!" shows how Community Day announcements trigger both nostalgia and forward-thinking about game progression. People would share this with their local raid groups to coordinate participation in the upcoming event.
PUBG Mobile, 6.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from PUBG MOBILE shows players on a train witnessing airdrops, shootouts, and suddenly encountering an Attack on Titan crossover with a massive Titan reaching for their window.
The Titan appearance creates the strongest pattern interrupt. You're watching typical PUBG gameplay - airdrops, vehicles, combat - then suddenly there's a colossal Titan reaching for the train window. That unexpected crossover moment would make people immediately want to share and discuss what they just saw.
The train journey structure builds anticipation through varied scenarios. Mystery opening, airdrop chase, train combat, Titan encounter, robot bartender - each segment offers something different while maintaining the travel narrative. This variety prevents viewer fatigue and keeps you wondering what's next.
The blend of familiar PUBG elements with AOT and whimsical additions (robot bartender) creates broad appeal. Existing players see recognizable gameplay while crossover fans get their fantasy fulfilled. The cinematic quality and sound design make it feel like a premium experience worth trying.
Decoding the Titan Takeover, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from PUBG MOBILE demonstrates the Attack on Titan collaboration by showing Titan transformation and ODM gear mechanics in gameplay footage.
The rapid feature demonstration maximizes short-form effectiveness. Within 20 seconds, you see both major new mechanics - becoming a Titan and using ODM gear for aerial combat. No time is wasted on setup; it's pure action and information that respects viewers' attention spans.
The Titan transformation sequence delivers immediate wish fulfillment for AOT fans. Seeing a PUBG character morph into Eren's Attack Titan form makes the collaboration feel substantial rather than superficial. This suggests real gameplay changes, not just cosmetic additions.
Comments like "SHINZO WO SASAGEYOU🔥" show how authentic AOT integration triggered fan enthusiasm. Even humorous observations like "Why ya'll make Eren look like Tarzan" fuel engagement through discussion and relatability, boosting comment velocity and algorithm visibility.
The Unexpected Redemption, 1.6M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Fortnite shows Jar Jar Binks walking through pleasant environments before dramatically transforming into "Darth Jar Jar" with Sith armor and red lightsaber.
The subversion of expectations drives the core appeal. Jar Jar is universally known as goofy and annoying, so seeing him become genuinely menacing and cool creates powerful cognitive dissonance. This validates the long-standing "Darth Jar Jar" fan theory that's been a meme for years.
The character duality resonates on a basic human level. Comments like "We've all got two sides" show how the transformation concept connects beyond just Star Wars knowledge. People enjoy seeing the idea that there's hidden depth or power beneath an unassuming surface.
The meme actualization is crucial - this takes a theoretical fan concept and makes it officially real in a major game. For theory supporters, it's validation. For Jar Jar haters, it's redemption. For meme lovers, it's content gold. The "Mesa goin to hurt yousa" comments show immediate grasp of the humor and shareability.
Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral Tiktok strategies for gaming apps
- Viral marketing trends for gaming apps
- Viral marketing strategies for gaming apps