ASO Audit

Cryptogram ASO Audit Report

Buse Kanal

10 March 2025

Cryptogram iOS Audit

Cryptogram: Word Brain Puzzle is a unique word game that challenges users to decrypt hidden messages by solving word puzzles. As a popular app in the word puzzle category, refining its App Store Optimization (ASO) strategy can help improve visibility, boost conversion rates, and drive organic growth.

In this audit, we analyze Cryptogram’s current ASO performance and explore opportunities to enhance its keyword rankings, metadata, screenshots, and engagement strategies.

Keyword Research

We conducted a keyword analysis for Cryptogram in the United States. The details of our findings are shared at the end of this report.

Looking at the research results, we can see that Cryptogram ranks for some key search terms. However, there are still untapped opportunities to improve visibility and attract more organic users.

At ShyftUp, we use ASO intelligence tools like Mobile Action to identify high-traffic keywords with lower competition. A key metric in our research is Volume, which ranges from 5 to 100, representing the relative number of users searching for a specific keyword compared to others in the App Store and Google Play.

Current Keyword Rankings:

“Word puzzle” – Volume: 41 – Rank: #4
“Brain games” – Volume: 59 – Rank: #30
“Word games” – Volume: 59 – Rank: #4
“Logic” – Volume: 41 – Rank: #28

Competitor Keyword Analysis:

“Wordscapes” – Volume: 62 – Rank: #37
“NYT Crossword” – Volume: 27 – Rank: #99
“Word Connect” – Volume: 40 – Rank: #218

The data suggests that targeting additional high-volume search terms could help Cryptogram improve its ranking and organic downloads.

Title Analysis

Current Title: Cryptogram: Word Brain Puzzle (29/30 characters)

Apple allows up to 30 characters for the title, and Cryptogram is making good use of this space.

Keyword Volume Analysis:

“Brain” – Volume: 46
“Puzzle” – Volume: 57
“Brain Puzzle” – Volume: 28
“Word” – Volume: 73

The current title incorporates relevant, high-search keywords, helping maximize discoverability. However, testing variations that introduce additional high-traffic keywords (e.g., “Games” or “Logic Puzzle”) could lead to improved rankings.

Subtitle Analysis

Current Subtitle: Guess quotes in logic game! (27/30 characters)

Apple allows up to 30 characters for the subtitle. Cryptogram is utilizing this space, but there is room for keyword improvement.

Keyword Volume Analysis:

“Guess quotes” – Volume: 5
“logic game” – Volume: 5

Suggested Subtitle for Testing:

“Play Fun Logic & Number Games” (29/30 characters)

Adds “Games” (Volume: 78) to increase discoverability.
Includes “Play” (Volume: 53) to increase discoverability.
Adds “Fun Games” (Volume: 62) to increase discoverability.

Screenshot Analysis

Screenshots play a crucial role in converting App Store visitors into users. Well-optimized visuals can significantly boost conversion rates, while unclear messaging or design inconsistencies can lead to drop-offs.

Cryptogram’s Current Screenshots:

Looking at Cryptogram’s current screenshots, we see an engaging and colorful design. However, there are areas where improvements can be made:

Areas for Improvement:

Value-Oriented Messaging – Headlines should emphasize why users should download the game. Using action-driven messaging like “Boost Your Brainpower” or “Crack Challenging Word Puzzles” could improve conversion. There are no headlines in the current screenshot set.
Social Proof – The app does not prominently display user ratings, testimonials, or download milestones. Adding elements like “190K+ Downloads” or “Rated 4.6 Stars” can reinforce credibility.
Feature Highlights – While the screenshots show the interface well, they could highlight key features such as “Daily Challenges” or “Compete with Friends.”
A/B Testing Strategy – Experimenting with different device placements, colors, and messaging could improve user engagement.

To optimize conversion rates, we recommend implementing A/B tests for:

Headline messaging variations.
Social proof placement.
Feature-focused screenshots.

In-App Events

Apple’s In-App Events are a great way to improve discoverability and engagement. Cryptogram created 46 In-App Events last year, an incredible number. The team should keep creating events. IAEs could be a major opportunity since events can be featured ingeniously to user acquisition from App Store Browse and s contribute to research traffic.

Key Takeaways

To strengthen its ASO strategy, Cryptogram should focus on:

Expanding metadata – Testing alternative title and subtitle variations with higher-traffic keywords.
Optimizing screenshots – Improving value-driven messaging, adding social proof, and running A/B tests.
Monitoring keyword performance – Tracking rankings and adjusting metadata based on shifting user trends.

By implementing these ASO improvements and continuously testing new variations, Cryptogram can enhance its App Store presence and drive sustainable organic growth.