Do you need a company to sell a game?

Do You Need a Company to Sell a Game?

As a game developer, one of the most common questions you may ask yourself is whether you need a company to sell a game. The answer is not a straightforward one, as it depends on various factors such as the type of game, the platform you want to release it on, and your personal goals. In this article, we will explore the different options and help you make an informed decision.

Self-Publishing vs. Company

There are two main options to consider when it comes to selling a game: self-publishing and working with a company. Self-publishing means that you are responsible for all aspects of the game’s development, marketing, and distribution. This approach gives you complete creative control and allows you to retain all the profits. However, it also means that you will be responsible for all the costs and risks associated with game development.

Working with a Company

On the other hand, working with a company means that you partner with a publisher or developer to help you produce and distribute your game. This approach can provide you with access to resources, expertise, and a wider audience. However, it also means that you will have to share the profits and may have less control over the game’s development and marketing.

When Do You Need a Company?

There are certain situations where working with a company may be beneficial or even necessary:

• Large-scale game development: If you are developing a complex game that requires a large team and significant resources, working with a company may be the best option.
• Distribution on multiple platforms: If you want to release your game on multiple platforms, such as PC, console, and mobile, working with a company may be necessary to ensure that your game is compatible with each platform.
• Marketing and promotion: If you are not experienced in marketing and promotion, working with a company may be beneficial to help you reach a wider audience.

When Can You Self-Publish?

On the other hand, there are certain situations where self-publishing may be the best option:

• Indie game development: If you are developing a small, indie game, self-publishing may be the best option to retain creative control and maximize profits.
• Mobile game development: If you are developing a mobile game, self-publishing may be the best option, as mobile games tend to have a lower development cost and can be marketed and distributed more easily.
• Digital distribution: If you want to distribute your game digitally, self-publishing may be the best option, as digital distribution platforms such as Steam and GOG allow you to self-publish your game and retain all the profits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you need a company to sell a game depends on various factors, including the type of game, the platform you want to release it on, and your personal goals. While working with a company can provide you with access to resources and expertise, self-publishing can give you complete creative control and allow you to retain all the profits. Ultimately, the decision to self-publish or work with a company depends on your individual circumstances and goals.

Table: Comparison of Self-Publishing and Working with a Company

Bullets: Pros and Cons of Self-Publishing

• Pros:
  • Complete creative control
  • Retain all profits
  • Flexibility in game development and marketing
  • No overhead costs
• Cons:
  • You are responsible for all costs
  • You are responsible for marketing and distribution
  • Limited resources
  • Less visibility

Bullets: Pros and Cons of Working with a Company

• Pros:
  • Access to resources and expertise
  • Company absorbs some costs
  • Marketing and distribution handled by company
  • Increased visibility
• Cons:
  • Less creative control
  • Profits are shared
  • Overhead costs
  • Limited flexibility in game development and marketing