Direct Sales

Selling games directly to consumers through platforms like Steam, itch.io, and the Epic Games Store is one of the most common ways indie developers earn money. Thanks to digital distribution, developers can reach a global audience without the need for physical copies.
​

Digital Platforms: Indie devs often sell their games on platforms like Steam, GOG, itch.io, and Epic Games Store. These platforms allow them to distribute games to a global audience with relatively low fees.

App Stores: Mobile indie developers can publish their games on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, typically using a freemium model or direct sales.

​

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and IndieGoGo provide opportunities for developers to raise funds even before the game is released. This approach not only supports development financially but also builds an initial fan base.
​

1. Choose a Crowdfunding Platform

• Popular platforms: Kickstarter, GoFundMe, Indiegogo, Patreon, etc.
• Considerations: Some platforms are better for specific types of campaigns (e.g., GoFundMe for personal causes, Kickstarter for creative projects).

2. Set Up Your Account

• Sign up for an account on your chosen platform.
• Verify your identity and payment information as required.

3. Define Your Campaign Goal

• Set a clear financial goal: Choose an amount you need to raise.
• Timeline: Decide on the duration of the campaign (30–60 days is common).
• Why the funds are needed: Be specific about what the money will be used for.

4. Create an Engaging Title

• Use a catchy and descriptive title to draw attention.
• Keep it short and memorable.

5. Write a Compelling Story

• Introduction: Clearly explain what your project or need is about.
• Background: Share your personal story, the cause, or the problem you're solving.
• Why people should care: Highlight the importance of your project and how it will make an impact.
• Breakdown of the funds: Be transparent about how the money will be used.

6. Add High-Quality Media (Photos/Videos)

• Include photos that represent your project or cause.
• Create a video introducing yourself and explaining the campaign. Videos increase engagement and trust.
• Make sure media is of good quality, clear, and professional.

7. Offer Incentives (Optional)

• For reward-based crowdfunding (like Kickstarter), offer tiers of rewards for different levels of support.
• Examples include products, thank-you notes, or exclusive updates.

8. Promote Your Campaign

• Social media: Share your campaign on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other platforms.
• Email: Reach out to friends, family, and any other relevant contacts.
• Community: Get in touch with local media, bloggers, and influencers to spread the word.
• Regular updates: Keep your backers informed about the campaign's progress.

9. Thank Your Backers

• Express gratitude for their support.
• Share updates on how their contributions have helped your project, even after the campaign is over.

10. Monitor and Respond

• Keep an eye on your campaign regularly.
• Respond to comments, questions, and messages from potential backers to maintain engagement.​​Need help with setting up a crowdfunding page for your game? Indie game marketing experts can help you create and maintain a page, reaching your goal through marketing campaigns and vibrant copy.

Earning money as an indie game developer involves creativity, adaptability, and strategic planning. By leveraging multiple income streams, indie developers can sustain their projects and continue to innovate within the industry. Here are some of the steps they typically undertake: