Indie Game Business

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Mercedes Boberg, Sales Manager at Pragma and Firstlook, to break down how indie developers should approach working with creators from day one. Mercedes shares why thinking about creators early, before launch, is critical and explains the difference between paid creator campaigns and organic creator growth. We'll talk about what actually makes creators stick with a game long term, how to approach creators when you don't have budget or brand recognition, and the most common mistakes studios make when trying to work with them. This conversation also dives into how to turn creators into long term partners instead of one off promotions, and what real success looks like when your creator strategy is working. If you want to build lasting relationships that actually move your game forward, this episode is packed with practical insight. Follow Mercedes Boberg: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mercedes-boberg-225023234/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercedesboberg/ #IndieGameBusiness #CreatorMarketing #IndieDev #GameMarketing #Firstlook #Pragma

Join Patrick Sweeney for “Working with Publishers: Lessons Learned from 3,000 Agreements” Publishing deals can be complex, and small misunderstandings can lead to big problems. Drawing from experience across thousands of agreements, Patrick breaks down common myths, recurring pitfalls, and what developers often overlook when entering partnerships. This session offers clear guidance on how to approach deals with better expectations, stronger communication, and a more balanced relationship from the start.#FYP #VirtualConference #IndieGameDev #IndieGames #GamesIndustry #Publishing

Join Katherine Vildoso for “Building International Networks: Ambassador & Partnership Strategies”Expanding beyond local reach can be one of the biggest hurdles for growing organizations. Katherine shares how to build and scale an international network, drawing from her experience launching and formalizing an association within a year. This session covers how to develop a strong ambassador program, form strategic partnerships, and create a governance structure that attracts both government and private support. You'll leave with practical approaches to growing your network with purpose and structure.

Join Eline Muijres for “Your Publisher Is Still Judging You: How Trust Is Built, Lost, and Repaired in a Publishing Relationship”Signing a publishing deal isn't the finish line, it's the start of a long-term relationship. Eline draws from her experience as a Publisher Producer to explain how trust is built, tested, and sometimes broken throughout development. Using real-world examples, this session explores how publishers evaluate not just your game, but your communication, reliability, and team dynamics. You'll learn what strengthens a partnership, what damages it, and how to recover when things start going sideways.#FYP #VirtualConference #IndieGameDev #IndieGames #GamesIndustry #Publishing

Join Jay Powell for “Finding the Right Publishing Partner for Your Game”Not every publisher will be the right match for your project, your goals, or your team. Jay breaks down what publishers actually bring to the table, how to evaluate potential partners, and the warning signs developers often miss. This session covers the key questions to ask before signing an agreement and how to find a publishing relationship that supports your game instead of complicating it.#FYP #VirtualConference #IndieGameDev #IndieGames #GamesIndustry #Publishing

Join Dmitry Martirosyan for “Publisher Relationships – What it Gives and What it Takes?” Working with publishers is a craft that goes far beyond signing a deal. Dmitry explores what it really takes to build and maintain strong publisher relationships in an industry shaped by shifting audiences, evolving technology, and constant market changes. This session breaks down the skills, awareness, and adaptability needed to navigate those dynamics, and how developers can stay prepared, even when the landscape keeps changing.#FYP #VirtualConference #IndieGameDev #IndieGames #GamesIndustry #Publishing

Starting a studio without industry experience can feel overwhelming, but it's more common than you think. Alina walks through what it takes to build a game studio from the ground up and keep it running over time. As a follow-up to her 2022 session, she expands on the realities of managing a studio long-term, covering early decisions, ongoing challenges, and what founders need to stay on track as they grow.#FYP #VirtualConference #IndieGameDev #IndieGames #GamesIndustry #Publishing

Join Mark and INDIE as they discuss the talks and insights shared during the May Deep Dive focused on building strong publishing partnerships. This post-event session will break down key presentations, highlight important takeaways from speakers, and explore what those lessons mean for indie developers. They'll cover what was said about finding the right publishing partners, common mistakes developers make, red flags to watch for, and how to approach partnerships with a long-term mindset. Mark and INDIE will also share their own thoughts on the discussions and how developers can apply these insights right now. If you attended the Deep Dive and want a recap or missed it and want the key takeaways, this session will get you caught up. #IndieGameBusiness #GamePublishing #IndieDev #IGBDeepDive #GameBusiness

Securing interest from a partner or investor is only the first step. Chelsea explains how corporate due diligence works in the U.S. and why some studios lose deals during the background review process. By walking through how investigators evaluate risk, this session reveals what reviewers look for in your company records, public presence, and business materials. You'll leave with a clearer understanding of how to prepare your studio to pass due diligence and protect opportunities you've worked hard to earn.#FYP #VirtualConference #IndieGameDev #IndieGames #GamesIndustry #Publishing

Join Meg Clarke for “I Love You But Your Pitch Sucks” –A tough title, but an honest one. Meg breaks down the common mistakes developers make when approaching investors, from unclear messaging to misaligned expectations. With direct feedback and real-world perspective, this session highlights what holds pitches back and how to improve them without losing your creative vision. Expect candid insights and practical advice to help you present your project with clarity and confidence.#FYP #VirtualConference #IndieGameDev #IndieGames #GamesIndustry #Publishing

Join us for a special IndieGameBusiness Fireside Chat with Ash Cason, Ian Wright, and April Stallings from Make-A-Wish. This conversation will focus on what's happening with Make-A-Wish this year and how the video game industry is playing a powerful role in helping grant life changing wishes. Ian Wright, Lead Manager of Gaming Fundraising, and April Stallings, Charitable Gaming Program Manager, will share how developers, creators, and communities can get involved, support the mission, and make a meaningful difference through games. This will be a relaxed, interactive discussion with live questions from the audience, so come ready to learn, engage, and be part of something impactful. Follow Ian Wright and April Stallings: Ian Wright LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-wright-318926124/ April Stallings LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilstallings/ #IndieGameBusiness #FiresideChat #MakeAWish #GamingForGood #GameIndustry

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Eleni Sagredos, Advertising Operations Strategist and growth marketing consultant who has worked with companies like Epic Games and Meta/Oculus. Eleni shares what growth marketing really means for game teams and how to focus on what actually drives results instead of chasing vanity metrics. We dive into the marketing levers that truly move the needle, from paid media to creator partnerships to organic community building. Eleni explains how developers should think about measurement when attribution is not perfect, what signals actually matter when evaluating a campaign, and how to build a smarter framework across all marketing channels. This conversation also focuses on practical strategies for indie teams, including how to connect marketing efforts back to wishlists, sales, and long term business impact. If you want to understand what is actually working in game marketing today, this episode delivers clear and actionable insight. Follow Eleni Sagredos: X: https://x.com/eleniexp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenisagredos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eleni_exp #IndieGameBusiness #GameMarketing #GrowthMarketing #IndieDev #GameBusiness

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Alexandre Amancio , Head of Studio at Studio Ellipsis, for a wide ranging conversation about the current state of the games industry and where it is headed next. Alex shares his perspective on why the future of game development may lie with smaller, more focused teams and how creative constraints can actually lead to better and more original games. The discussion also explores what it truly means to build a community centric studio and the lessons Alex has learned throughout his career in the industry. The conversation then shifts to Studio Ellipsis and the vision behind building a new studio in Lisbon. Alex talks about the culture, the ambition, and the talent the team is bringing together, as well as the mindset behind launching the studio and growing it in today's challenging industry environment. We also dive into the studio's first game, Nightholme, a multiplayer horror hunt experience. Alex explains what makes the game unique, where development currently stands, and what players and developers can expect next as the project continues to evolve. Follow Alexandre Amancio and Studio Ellipsis: LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/ewrReq4A Studio Ellipsis LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eszfAf6j X: https://x.com/Nightholme Facebook: https://lnkd.in/eRtT4azc Instagram: https://lnkd.in/ep7NQDk8 Discord: https://lnkd.in/e4uWyAv2 hashtag#IndieGameBusiness hashtag#StudioEllipsis hashtag#Nightholme hashtag#GameDevelopment hashtag#IndieDev

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Romy Halfweeg, Business Development Manager at Poki, to break down how indie developers can succeed in the growing world of web gaming. Romy shares an overview of the browser gaming space, how it has evolved, and where Poki fits today with a catalog of over 1600 games. Drawing from her experience as a former indie developer, she explains how that perspective shapes how Poki works with developers and what they look for when signing new games. We'll dive into who the web gaming audience is, what gameplay loops perform best, and which monetization strategies actually work. Romy also covers the technical considerations developers need to think about when building for the web, and how indie teams can position themselves to take advantage of this platform. If you're looking for new distribution channels, revenue streams, or ways to reach massive audiences without traditional storefronts, this episode is packed with practical insight. Follow Romy Halfweeg: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romyhalfweeg/ #IndieGameBusiness #WebGaming #Poki #IndieDev #GameDistribution

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Mike Straw, Executive Editor at Insider Gaming, to talk about the current state of games media and how the industry is being viewed from the inside. Mike shares insight into the evolving landscape of games journalism, how major companies view gamers today, and whether true innovation is still happening across the industry. We also discuss how coverage decisions are made, what trends are shaping media narratives, and how developers can better understand the perspective of the press. If you want a clear, honest look at how the industry is being covered right now and what that means for developers, this conversation delivers valuable perspective. Follow Mike Straw: Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeStrawMedia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstrawjr/ #IndieGameBusiness #GameJournalism #InsiderGaming #GameIndustry #IndieDev

In this special Fireside Chat, Jay Powell and Mario Kroll sit down with longtime industry leader Larry Kuperman for a heartfelt farewell and reflection on an incredible 25 year career in games. The conversation begins with the two people who have meant the most in Larry's professional journey, Jay and Mario, before looking back at a legacy that spans more than 30 games and decades of service to the industry. Larry shares his decision to conclude his time at Nightdive Studios, what comes next with the IGDA and the IGDA Foundation, and his continued work with Voices of the Forgotten. He also makes it clear that while this chapter is closing, he remains available as a speaker and advocate for the industry he loves. As a longtime guest and friend of IndieGameBusiness, this episode is both a celebration and a thank you to the gaming community that shaped his career. #IndieGameBusiness #FiresideChat #GameIndustry #IGDA #NightdiveStudios

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Jo from JoGameDev, the developer behind the tactical spell crafting roguelike Spellmasons. The game has sold over 60,000 copies on Steam and recently crossed 1,000 reviews. Jo shares the honest story behind the game's journey. After early sales stagnated during the first two years, Jo reignited interest through focused marketing efforts that drove over 8 million views in the last six months. The result was the game's third year becoming its most profitable period yet. We'll talk about what worked, what didn't, and how solo developers can take control of their own marketing. Jo also shares the long term goal of building a lean, bootstrapped indie studio focused on multiplayer games and discusses the next project, an overpowered hero autobattler titled Some of You May Die. The game recently gained attention after being featured on Splattercatgaming's YouTube channel and became one of the top performing videos compared to his recent uploads. If you want to learn how persistence, smart marketing, and long term thinking can revive a game's success, this episode is packed with practical insights. Follow JoGameDev: X: https://x.com/jogamedev Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jogamedev/ #IndieGameBusiness #Spellmasons #IndieDev #GameMarketing #SteamGames

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Junae Benne, Marketing Journalist at Benne Media Solutions, to talk about why community is the foundation of successful indie game marketing. Junae breaks down how to build a community from the ground up, how community directly impacts visibility and sales, and why many struggling indie games overlook this critical piece. We'll also discuss how small teams can market effectively on a limited budget, how to create a practical marketing roadmap, and when teams should actually begin their marketing efforts. We also touch on insights from Nordic Game Conference, what to look for when hiring a marketing company, what developers should have prepared before seeking help, and how key PR moments like trailers, demos, and partnerships can amplify growth and long-term visibility. If you want practical, realistic marketing guidance tailored for indie teams, this conversation delivers clear direction. Follow Junae Benne: Twitter: https://twitter.com/junaebenne LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/junaebennett Facebook Gaming: https://fb.gg/junaebenne Instagram: https://instagram.com/junaebenne Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/junaebenne.bsky.social #IndieGameBusiness #GameMarketing #IndieDev #CommunityBuilding #BenneMedia

Welcome to a new IndieGameBusiness segment: Fireside Chat. In this episode, Jay Powell sits down with Heather Chandler for a candid conversation about one of the biggest silent killers in game development: lack of production. Too many teams focus only on “make the game” without building a real plan for how it gets finished, marketed, funded, and sustained. Jay and Heather break down what bad production looks like, why so many studios underestimate it, and how the absence of structure can derail even great ideas. They'll discuss: • Why production is more than task tracking • The risks of not having a roadmap beyond development • How poor planning impacts funding, timelines, and team morale • What studios should be thinking about before they ever write a line of code If you're building a studio or leading a team, this Fireside Chat will challenge you to think beyond just making the game and start building the business around it. #IndieGameBusiness #FiresideChat #GameProduction #IndieDev #GameBusiness

This talk focuses on the most common mistakes teams make when building a pitch and how to avoid them. Based on real experiences reviewing and producing game projects, it explores why many pitches fail to communicate their true potential, not because the ideas are bad, but because they are poorly framed, unfocused, or disconnected from business and production realities.

Join Jay and Ivan for an inside look at what publishers and investors really look for in a pitch deck. Drawing on their experience reviewing countless submissions, they'll break down the key elements that make a deck stand out and what may cause them to be overlooked. Walk away with practical insights to help your pitch rise above a crowded field.

Pitch decks shouldn't feel like homework, they should feel like gameplay.In this session, I break down how indie developers can Gamify their pitch decks and design decks that engage, guide, and convert investors, publishers, and partners using game design thinking.Drawing from real indie pitching lessons, failed pitches, and successful iterations, I'll show how to structure your deck like a player journey, with clear stakes, progression, and payoff.

In the current industry investment climate, every pitch needs to find an edge in order to succeed. In 'The Art of Pitching', Travis takes a look at pitching at a foundational, psychological level at what needs to be communicated and how. A break from the normal pitch templates, guides, or ideal format the talk covers lessons that you can use regardless if you're trying to pitch your game, your idea, or even yourself. Key takeaways include messaging, strategy, and how to understand who you're pitching to.

You'll discover essential strategies for successfully navigating the funding landscape. Learn how to craft compelling pitches tailored for government bodies and private investors, ensuring your project stands out. We'll explore networking techniques to build lasting relationships and share real-world case studies showcasing successful collaborations. Key takeaways include actionable insights on pitching dynamics, effective communication, and overcoming challenges, empowering you to secure vital support for your game development ventures.

All the time and effort spent honing your pitch has paid off and now a publisher has agreed to publish your game. Congratulations!! However, the next morning you receive an email with a PDF publishing agreement full of unnecessarily cumbersome phrasing and legal language. What does it all mean and how can you tell if it is a good deal? In this hour-long presentation, video game and entertainment lawyer Andrew Thomas will cover the basic contract terms every developer should know about when entering into a publishing agreement as well as some common pitfalls.

Join Ash and Indie as they break down everything that happened at the recent IndieGameBusiness® Sessions: From Pitch to Partnership. In this post-event discussion, they'll recap key moments, standout conversations, and the biggest takeaways from speakers and attendees. Ash and Indie will also talk about what worked, what surprised them, and what these insights mean for indie developers moving forward. If you missed the event or want a deeper look at the lessons learned around pitching, partnerships, and business growth, this stream will get you fully up to speed. They'll also share what's coming next for IndieGameBusiness and how future events and sessions are evolving based on community feedback. #IndieGameBusiness #IGBSessions #IndieDev #GameBusiness #PostEvent

How do you pitch a culturally grounded game without getting pushed into clichés or “folklore tourism”? In this session I share practical ways to communicate the heart of your game, explain your cultural influences, and keep control of your narrative while still giving publishers what they need. You will learn simple tactics to frame your fantasy, highlight your team's strengths, and pitch your world with honesty and confidence.

Join Jay Powell and Omar Khalil for a live pitch review session, where they'll evaluate a game pitch in real time and share practical feedback, insights, and best practices.

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Jade King, Lead Features Editor at TheGamer, to talk about what every indie developer should understand about working with the gaming press in 2026. Jade breaks down what an indie game really means in today's landscape, how journalists approach covering indie releases, and what developers can do to get noticed by traditional press without burning bridges. We'll also discuss why forcing pitches hurts coverage, how indie press coverage is changing, and how developers and journalists both need to adapt moving forward. This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how coverage actually happens, how to make journalists' lives easier, and why doing so makes indie games more fun to cover again. If you want smarter press outreach and better long-term relationships with media, this episode is essential. Follow Jade King: X: https://x.com/KonaYMA6 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jade-king-292a12101/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jade_king23/ #IndieGameBusiness #GamePress #IndieDev #TheGamer #GameJournalism

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Vadim Andreev, CEO and Co-Founder of Rokky, a PC game distribution platform focused on expanding how and where games reach players. Vadim breaks down the current state of PC gaming distribution and what it means for indie developers today. We'll discuss whether Steam is truly a monopoly, the risks of relying on a single platform, and what alternative marketplaces and e-stores developers should be considering. Vadim also explains how non-traditional markets like MENA, LATAM, and China fit into the global PC distribution landscape, plus what the grey market is and whether it poses a real threat to developers. Finally, we explore the advantages of diversifying your distribution mix and how doing so can help protect your game, reach new audiences, and increase long-term revenue. Follow Vadim Andreev: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vadim-andreev/ #IndieGameBusiness #PCGaming #GameDistribution #Rokky #IndieDev

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Kyle Blessing, Brand Manager at Apogee Entertainment. Kyle shares how his background as a content creator shaped his approach to game marketing, from understanding algorithms and audiences to building campaigns rooted in authenticity. We'll talk about why indie games are often harder to market than AAA titles, how deep product understanding leads to better messaging, and why creator-led marketing consistently outperforms traditional influencer spend. Kyle also walks through real case studies from Apogee launches like Bread & Fred, Total Chaos, and Turbo Overkill, breaking down what worked and why. This conversation also covers the strategic role of trailers, demos, and key moments, plus practical advice for indie developers who don't have the budget or margin for error. If you're trying to get your game noticed without burning money, this episode is packed with actionable insight. Follow Kyle Blessing: Twitter: https://twitter.com/KyleBlessing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleblessingvo/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blessiousplays #IndieGameBusiness #GameMarketing #ApogeeEntertainment #IndieDev #CreatorMarketing

In this special live episode of IndieGameBusiness, Jay Powell, Founder and CEO of The Powell Group and IndieGameBusiness, is joined by Ash Cason to talk about what 2026 holds for both organizations. Jay and Ash will break down what's been happening behind the scenes, what's coming next, and how IndieGameBusiness is evolving to better serve indie developers and the games industry as a whole. They'll also be fielding live questions from the stream, so this is your chance to hear directly from the people shaping the future of IGB. If you want to know what's coming next and hear about some big upcoming changes, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Follow IndieGameBusiness and The Powell Group: Discord: https://discord.com/invite/indiegamebusiness Website: https://indiegamebusiness.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/indiegamebusiness Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2RJj7I87MsmEKInqFvSZRy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiegamebusiness/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiegamebusiness Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/indiegamebusiness The Powell Group: https://powellgroupconsulting.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-powell-group-consulting/posts/?feedView=all #IndieGameBusiness #ThePowellGroup #GameIndustry #IndieDev #LiveQnA

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Nate Purkeypile, solo indie developer at Just Purkey Games. Nate shares what it's really like to leave the AAA world and build games completely on your own. We'll talk about why he shifted from major studios to solo development, why he chose not to start a small company, and how he stays on track without a team. Nate breaks down what solo devs should outsource, how to properly scope a project, and how to manage both marketing and development at the same time. He also gives us a look at what's coming next from Just Purkey Games. If you're considering going solo or want a realistic look at the challenges and freedoms of one-person development, this episode is packed with insight. Follow Nate Purkeypile: X: https://x.com/NPurkeypile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-purkeypile-6030141/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justpurkeygames/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/npurkeypile.bsky.social #IndieGameBusiness #IndieDev #SoloDev #JustPurkeyGames #GameDevelopment

Most developer-publisher relationships don't turn sour because of money; they suffer from miscommunication, misaligned expectations, or ignored crises. In this talk, we break down your responsibilities as a developer, what to do when things go really wrong, and how to tell if your publisher producer isn't doing their job. Packed with practical advice and real-world examples, this session helps you navigate publisher relationships with accountability on both sides - so you get the support you deserve.

I run x2line, a lean studio with 50M+ downloads across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Android (including TV form factors), and the web. I'm the only full-time developer. I manage production, ship updates, and coordinate long-term art and animation contractors instead of an in-house team. I'll cover: how to scope version 1 vs later updates, how to get usable assets from contractors, and how to choose the next feature or fix so the game stays alive for years.

When game projects start slipping with missed milestones, scope creep, and fading morale, how do you get things back on track? This session presents a production first aid kit with tools to diagnose problems, triage scope, rebuild schedules, and communicate changes clearly to your teams.Key takeaways: Spot early warning signs, apply a lightweight triage framework, and stabilize delivery without burning out your team.

Playtesting doesn't need to be expensive or overwhelming. This talk shares a simple process any small team can use to run regular 1 on 1 playtesting sessions. Learn how to find testers outside your immediate circle, prepare stable builds, guide productive sessions, and turn feedback into meaningful improvements. You'll leave with clear, repeatable steps to make playtesting a natural and empowering part of development.

Successful games not only have a strong creative vision but are also highly acclaimed by players; this integration of player insights occurs throughout the entire development cycle and takes different forms.In this talk, we map out lightweight, well-timed user experience research (UXR) activities into a production pipeline that doesn't slow things down, and in fact de-risks development and improves outcomes.

Game projects don't get made in a straight line. In this session, we'll explore how the producer's role shifts across art, features, publishing, and external development—and why producers are essential to each. Our panelists will compare what their day-to-day looks like, the backgrounds that help most, how success is measured, and where the biggest challenges lie. Whether you're curious about indie projects or AAA blockbusters, get ready for an honest, side-by-side look at what it really takes to keep teams—and games—moving forward.

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Jess Feidt, Owner of Underwater Fire Games. Jess shares his journey from working on massive AAA franchises like Call of Duty to building his own indie studio from the ground up. We'll talk about why he decided to leave AAA, how he transitioned into running his own team, and how his experience at Treyarch and Sony shaped the decisions behind his first indie game. Jess also breaks down what he learned about the business side of starting a studio, how his opinions evolved throughout development, and what leading a small indie team has taught him. This is a must-watch for anyone thinking about going indie or starting their own studio. Follow Jess Feidt and Underwater Fire Games: X: https://x.com/UFireGames LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-feidt-0233842/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UFireGames Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ufiregames/ #IndieGameBusiness #IndieDev #UnderwaterFireGames #AAAtoIndie #GameDevelopment

Let's learn about game production tools! There are a lot of them out there, but which ones are right for my team size, game scope, and budget? We'll discuss industry standards, the pros and cons of several tools, and their applicability to different production methods such as Scrum and Kanban.

Most teams skip design documentation and pay for it later, in miscommunication, scope creep, and wasted development time. This session reveals how proper design docs streamline your entire pipeline. Learn the MDA framework for evaluating features, documentation techniques that actually help your team build faster, and how to communicate design decisions that reduce rework. Whether you're solo or managing a studio, discover why thinking like an architect (not just a builder) prevents bottlenecks and keeps production on track. Includes real templates and workflows used in professional studios.

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Peter Kojesta, Founder of Exis Games. Peter shares how the publishing and funding landscape is evolving for indie developers and what studios need to know to successfully launch games in 2025 and beyond. We'll explore the new requirements for getting a game published, the different types of publishers—from service-based to VC-backed—and what venture capital firms are really looking for in game investments. Peter also walks us through the development journey of *Dragonhold* and the lessons Exis Games learned along the way. If you're an indie dev looking to secure funding, find the right publishing partner, or understand the business side of modern game launches, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Follow Peter Kojesta and Exis Games: X: https://x.com/Exisinteractive LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterkojesta/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExisInteractive/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exisinteractive/ #IndieGameBusiness #ExisGames #IndieDev #GamePublishing #GameFunding #Dragonhold

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by April Stallings, Charitable Gaming Program Manager at Make-A-Wish International. April shares how the power of games is helping grant life-changing wishes for children battling critical illnesses around the world. Founded in 1980, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 615,000 wishes in nearly 50 countries. Every 25 seconds a child is diagnosed with a critical illness, and a wish provides hope, joy, and resilience—helping kids face their toughest battles. Gaming is often a vital lifeline for wish children, keeping them connected to friends and family while offering distraction and relief during hospital stays. With gaming-related wishes growing, Make-A-Wish is launching the Infinite Wishes program to give the games industry a unique way to support children when they need it most. Follow Make-A-Wish International and April Stallings: X: https://x.com/MakeAWishIntl LinkedIn (April Stallings): https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilstallings/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/makeawishintl Instagram: https://instagram.com/makeawishintl #IndieGameBusiness #MakeAWish #GamingForGood #GameIndustry #Charity

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Brad Hendricks, Founder and CEO of Blind Squirrel Games. Brad shares why globally distributed development is the foundation for scalability, sustainability, and long-term success in today's turbulent industry. We'll discuss how Blind Squirrel positioned itself to thrive during industry shifts, how distributed development helps prevent burnout, and how they balance client work with original IP creation. Brad also explains the challenges of unifying studio culture across regions like New Zealand and Colombia while celebrating each location's unique strengths. With 15 years of experience, Brad brings actionable insights for both indies and large studios looking to adapt, scale, and sustain creative excellence. Follow Brad Hendricks: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradhendricks/ #IndieGameBusiness #GameDevelopment #BlindSquirrelGames #DistributedDevelopment #GameIndustry

Join attorney and game developer Veda Cruz for an interactive session where legal pitfalls take center stage—in bingo form! Each square represents a sketchy but all-too-common scenario that devs run into, like forgotten contracts, fuzzy ownership, or fan content gone rogue. As we play through the card, you'll learn how to spot these legal traps early and handle them like a pro. Whether you're a solo dev or part of a growing team, this session will help you stay out of trouble and keep your game on track with way fewer headaches.

In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we're joined by Alex Seropian, CEO and Founder of Look North World. Alex shares lessons learned from launching UEFN experiences with Hasbro, Harmonix, Bandai Namco, and Twitch, and unpacks why the idea of games as platforms is more than just a passing trend. We'll dive into the growing influence of Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha, the race to turn popular games into open platforms, and what success will look like in this new era. From cost scaling measures to optimal testing and release cadences, Alex explains why developers now have just 6 seconds to capture player attention. If you want to understand the gaming industry's shift toward a platform economy—and how to adapt for a world where gamers choose games within games—this is a must-watch. Follow Alex Seropian and Look North World: X: https://x.com/steakbacon?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderseropian Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/looknorthworld/ #IndieGameBusiness #GamingIndustry #GamesAsPlatforms #GameDevelopment #UEFN

It's time to ask traditional video game publishing - are you ok? While the rest of the industry seems to evolve overnight, publishing remains the same, despite clear areas of concern. In this session, we'll examine the state of publishing today, areas of risk and opportunity, and options available to developers and publishers alike.

Juan Pablo Guzmán Fernández, CEO of Infinite Thread Games, shares his ongoing experience leading an indie studio. In this talk, he walks through the development of the games Hitori Kakurenbo Online and Hidalgo, covering production, marketing, funding, and team building. He discusses remote workflows, incubation programs, and the importance of early playtesting and market-driven design. The session includes practical advice for entering the games industry and highlights the value of a strong professional network and well-defined development processes.

Dan is a co-founder of award-winning 'The Detective Society', a board games company based in London, UK. In this talk, hear about how his small side project has survived 5-years without investment, and grown to be a leader in the innovative world of digital-hybrid gaming (part-board game, part video game)! Dan will talk about his experience raising money on Kickstarter (over £300k so far), loans, grants and even an appearance on the BBCs Dragons Den (Shark Tank for USA folks).

Game development costs are soaring to unprecedented heights, driven by the proliferation of new platforms, pandemic-fueled salary surges, shifting business models, and diverse expectations from different generations of gamers. In an industry where every new release is held to increasingly higher standards, players are paradoxically playing fewer games and for less hours. The challenge to create a hit game has never been more daunting. Join us for a conversation on the forces driving up game development costs and strategies studios are leveraging to ensure profitability.