Indie Game Movement - The podcast about the business and marketing of indie games.

Attribution often feels like a black box for indie devs, but ignoring it can cost you time, money, and momentum.  In this episode, we break down what attribution really is, why it matters, and how small teams can start tracking what counts while learning how to avoid misleading metrics, balance data with creative instincts, and make smarter marketing decisions that actually move the needle.    Episode Shownotes Link:  

When it comes to game jams, too many projects get shelved before they reach their full potential. In this episode, we're going to explore how jams and small projects can become launchpads for long-term opportunity with the right support. From mentorship and incubation to funding access and marketing guidance, learn how structured programs are helping developers turn prototypes into business-ready games and how you can do that too. Episode Shownotes Link:  

From trailers to reward tiers, creators often stress over the wrong things when preparing for a Kickstarter launch. So in this episode, our guest challenges common misconceptions and shares hard-earned insights from analyzing numerous campaigns. We'll cut through the noise and offer practical, proven strategies that anyone would be confident to back. Episode Shownotes Link:  

A lot of developers dream of starting their own studio, but the reality is far from glamorous. In this episode, we dive deep with our guest to unpack the overlooked, gritty, and often emotional process of building a studio from scratch. From pitching to production pipelines, they're going to share what aspiring founders need to prepare for, emotionally and operationally. Episode Shownotes Link:   

The game industry is full of risks, IP disputes, cyberattacks, contract issues, even failed crowdfunding campaigns. And while we never anticipate these things happening to us...sometimes, they surface when we least expect it, inviting all sorts of chaos. So today, we explore how devs can avoid the hassle of the unknown by understanding how insurance can help developers avoid disaster, stay protected, and keep projects moving, no matter the studio size. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Steam's algorithm is the engine that powers visibility on the platform, but understanding how it works is often a big mystery.  So today, we're going to bust some of the most common and persistent myths indie developers believe about how the algorithm functions, getting to the bottom of which signals actually matter, so you can stop worrying and focus on what really does. Episode Shownotes Link:  

In this episode, I share my GDC recap: a quarter-zip pullover, a virus, and a powerful reminder that change comes from within, not the event itself. I dive into how our intentions shape our relationships, why meaningful connections outshine superficial networking, and how the true impact of any event hinges on the mindset you bring to it. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Designing for mobile and PC might seem like a simple transition, but the reality is very different. Everything from screen sizes to monetization models requires a completely different approach. So today, for the first time ever on the podcast, we're talking with a team of four brothers who've been through this firsthand. We'll dive into what makes these platforms so different, the technical and design challenges of making the jump from mobile to PC, and what indie developers should keep in mind along the way. Plus, we'll explore how fresh perspectives can completely change the way we solve problems.    Episode Shownotes Link:  

The gaming landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, and it's indie developers who are leading some of the most exciting innovations. But what challenges do they still face, and how can small teams carve out success in an increasingly competitive market? In this episode, we explore how shifts in technology, business models, and industry trends are empowering smaller studios to make a bigger impact than ever before. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Developing an indie game is never a straight path as it's often a long road filled with challenges and unexpected twists. So today, we're goign to explore one person's journey in how they tackeled all sorts of obstacles and sucesses all while keeping momentum alive and fostering a dedicated community. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Indie studios often focus solely on their game, but what if their world could extend beyond the screen? So in today's epsidoe, our guest shares his expertise on transmedia storytelling—how indie developers can expand their IP across multiple platforms like comics, books, and film to build stronger brands and deeper player engagement. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Game music isn't just background noise—it's a storytelling tool that enhances gameplay and player engagement. In this episode, composer and game designer Tyler Mire shares how he crafts soundtracks that complement battle mechanics, amplify emotional moments, and make indie games stand out.     Episode Shownotes Link:  

Great games don't just happen—they're built on strong branding that resonates with players. But how do you convince a development team that brand matters just as much as gameplay? In this episode, we're going to break down how branding impacts everything from marketing to player engagement, and how developers can integrate branding into their creative process without sacrificing their vision. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Indie game development is a constant balancing act, espeicially when it comes to deciding where to invest our most important resources: time and money. So today, we'll explore the relationship we have with these resources, find creative ways to increase them and... how we should use them. But we don't stop there, as we'll discuss the role they play in how we validate concepts, going over everything from crowdfunding to one of the simplest and most effective ideas ever to validate a concept. And it requires very little time and money, and will save you a ton of both too. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Great games are built on collaboration, but it's not just between developers and partners, but with players themselves. Between insights and feedback, there's lots we can learn from players as long as we keep an open mind and a clear vision. However, getting that information or learning how to leverage it can be difficult. So today, we're going to explore how one publisher uses player insights to help inform everything from creative decisions, communication strategies and other approaches to ensure that games get the results needed to resonate with their audience. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Collaboration can transform the way indie game developers approach marketing and commercialization. In this episode, we dive into how shared resources, collective networks, and creative hubs empower indie studios to amplify their efforts and stand out in a competitive market.   Episode Shownotes Link:  

Making meaningful progress requires more than resolutions—it starts with aligning your goals with your values for sustainable success. In this episode of Indie Game Movement, we dive into how to build momentum with clarity and purpose, sharing personal insights, actionable exercises, and real-world examples. Discover how to drive impactful results for your studio while avoiding burnout and staying true to your vision. Tune in and kick off the year with focus and efficiency! Episode Shownotes Link:    

In today's crowded gaming landscape, keeping players engaged in new and different ways is tougher than ever, but it doesn't mean there aren't creative solutions. In this episode, we dive into innovative approaches to rewarding customer loyalty in games, uncovering what works and doesn't in driving retention and creating memorable player experiences by crafting customer reward systems that deliver results. Episode Shownotes Link:      

Standing out in the indie game market requires more than a great concept, it demands mastering value perception. In this episode, we reveal how developers can increase their game's perceived value for publishers and players alike. So today, we'll learn how key value drivers can be used to amplify pitches and inform price strategies for long-term revenue and player trust. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Marketing indie games is an uphill battle, and not every marketing idea hits the mark where we would like it to. But through an open mind and some iteration, it's still very possible. So today, we're going on an iterative journey with our guest, and how they went about refining marketing approaches to determine what makes campaigns stand out in a crowded space. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Behind every game is a team of talented individuals, that shapes the culture, productivity, and success of game studios. But sometimes, miscommunication or unresolved conflicts can derail even the best projects. In this episode, we explore actionable insights into people-centric leadership, covering communication strategies, effective feedback, and managing difficult conversations so all teams can thrive in this dynamic industry. Episode Shownotes Link: 

Pitching a game isn't just about the idea or talking to partners like publishers, it's about the delivery, timing, and knowing your audience. And properly executing a pitch in any context can be a daunting challenge. So today, we're going to dig deep into strategies for creating an impactful pitch. Whether it's capturing the attention of someone casually inquiring about your game to maximizing your presence at gaming events, we'll discuss how to create compelling pitches that can form meaningful connections and leave a lasting impression. Episode Shownotes Link:  

The mobile game market has become more challenging than ever, with rising costs, increased competition, and ever-changing algorithms, with so much to tackle it can get pretty overwhelming. Thankfully, today we're going to dive deep into the current issues the market is facing to uncover secrets that can elevate user acquisition and increase momentum in one of the most challenging game markets out there. Episode Shownotes Link: 

Every indie developer hopes their game will succeed, but building on that success takes smart planning well before that milestone is hit. In this episode, we'll explore practical strategies to help indie studios set strong foundations, position themselves for growth while attracting future opportunities and partnerships. So get ready as we share the tools to build up momentum now so your studio can thrive later. Episode Shownotes Link: 

As we wrap up the Master Class series, this bonus episode takes a deep dive into Patrick's course on creating irresistible games. Andrew has gone through the entire course, to provide a complete overview with key takeaways, strengths, personal thoughts on areas for improvement, and insights into who would benefit from the course and why it's a must for improving player engagement and building sustainable games. Please use the checkout link:   Shownotes page:  

Welcome to the Indie Game Movement masterclass series! In this episode, we explore game-changing monetization strategies that balance revenue generation with player satisfaction. Our guest shares insights on innovative approaches, avoiding pitfalls, tracking trends, and refining models with player feedback.  If you're looking for sustainable revenue strategies that keep players happy, this episode is a must-listen. Want to get more from this episode and take further action? Learn more about the course Use code IGM for an exclusive discount!  Please note: The podcast will receive compensation if you purchase the course using the link above. This means the podcast will earn a commission if you purchase the course through the link, at no additional cost to you.   Episode Shownotes Link:

  Welcome to the Indie Game Movement masterclass series! Today, we're diving into the importance of player engagement and how it's crucial for the success of indie games. Our guest shares their approach to creating games that captivate players, exploring key engagement elements, player motivations, and strategies to measure and adapt. If you want to learn how to foster meaningful connections with your players, this episode is for you. Want to get more from this episode and take further action? Learn more about the course Use code IGM for an exclusive discount!  Please note: The podcast will receive compensation if you purchase the course using the link above. This means the podcast will earn a commission if you purchase the course through the link, at no additional cost to you.   Episode Shownotes Link:

Welcome to the Indie Game Movement masterclass series! In this episode, we tackle the challenges of hooking and engaging players. Our guest shares insights, lessons learned, and strategies to captivate players, avoid common pitfalls, and build games that truly resonate. Whether you're looking to improve engagement or refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you take your game to the next level!  Want to get more from this episode and take further action? Learn more about the course Use code IGM for an exclusive discount!  Please note: The podcast will receive compensation if you purchase the course using the link above. This means the podcast will earn a commission if you purchase the course through the link, at no additional cost to you. Episode Shownotes Link:

Just sharing a quick announcement about our upcoming Master Class Series.  Listen to find out more! 

The marketing landscape is constantly evolving, and it's not exclusive to any one area or focus, especially influencers. And for those who can adapt, will thrive. That's why today we're meeting with a couple of guests to discuss the changes in influencer marketing strategies and how studios and even publishers can adapt, shifting from traditional PR to influencer marketing to maximize their ROI. Between diving into tools, strategies, and mindset, we're going to cover everything needed to keep up with these changes and maximize your influencer marketing efforts.   Episode Shownotes Link:

Balancing narrative and gameplay is a challenge that has puzzled game designers for decades, but thankfully there are lots of effective ways to overcome these obstacles. Today, we're going to take a deep dive into how ludonarrative experimentation can redefine this balance. With insights drawn from our guest's extensive experience in narrative-driven games, we discuss how novel design strategies and mechanics can lead to more immersive and thought-provoking player experiences. Episode Shownotes Link:

What does it take to survive as an indie game studio for 10 years? That's a great question and one we're going to tackle head on by exploring challenges of sustaining an independent game studio. Today our guest shares their journy starting as a student project, and the lessons learned along the ways like overcoming early hurdles to adapting to industry challenges and the strategies that kept their company afloat and growing as they pushed through uncertain times.   Episode Shownotes Link:

Today, we're diving into how to resonate with your audience and achieve remarkable results. This episode is a special one, as I'll be sharing insights from a recent talk I gave, tailored just for you. So sit back, relax, and let's explore how to connect with your audience and make an impact.  Interested in getting valuable market and audience insights? Get your free consultation ! 

Indie game development often thrives on the balance between iteration and long-term sustainability, but in doing so, there's always the potential risk of burning out. So today, we're going to explore strategies on how to maintain creativity over time and how to adapt your development process to evolve projects while fostering innovation and sustainability. Episode Shownotes Link:

The indie game industry has evolved dramatically in the last few decades. But despite some fundamental challenges that remain, reaching sustainability is still possible to acheive. So today, we're going to dive deep into how one developer has thrived for over 30 years, balancing creativity and business by focusing on shareware games. We'll explore the history, some trends and wrap it all up with some actionable tips to help developers turn their passion into a long-lasting career. Episode Shownotes Link:

Managing an indie studio requires juggling multiple roles, from creative direction to financial management, all while staying true to a game's vision. It may not be easy, but it can be done. So today, we're going to dive into the challenges of balancing these responsibilities, and explore how to build up your IP all while learning how to effectively leverage strategies and lessons learned while wearing many hats. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Marketing and community management are often the bridge between game developers and their audience, but navigating this relationship during production can be tricky. So today, we're going to uncover how to align marketing strategies with community needs by discussing effective ways to create authentic connections and drive player engagement, all while you're still making your game! Episode Shownotes Link:

Many indie game developers fall into the trap of letting their limitations dictate their creative process, which can affect more than just their games. So today, we're going to challenge this mindset by discussing how studios can apply AAA principles to their projects, and learn how to think big, innovate, and overcome limitations that may stand in the way.   Episode Shownotes Link:

With the gaming industry experiencing significant job cuts over the past several months, developers and professionals are finding it increasingly difficult to secure new opportunities, making articulating your value more critical than ever. In this episode, we're going to discuss how to communicate your worth effectively in such a competitive environment. From strategies that craft compelling narratives that stand out to navigating career transitions, we'll get to the bottom of how you can stand out and better navigate the uncertainties that lie ahead. Episode Shownotes Link:

AI is revolutionizing data analytics and game development, presenting both opportunities and challenges for developers. Unfortunately, many are unsure how to leverage this information effectively. In this episode, we explore how AI solutions are reshaping the gaming industry by looking into practical applications and future trends in AI-driven game development. Episode Shownotes Link:

Many great games go unnoticed due to a lot of different factors, but one of the main areas studios and developers struggle with is nailing down discoverbility. So today, we're going to tackle this problem by understanding issues with the current game discovery system and discuss practical solutions to fix it, so you can break down barriers in game discovery and stand out!   Episode Shownotes Link:

Developers often struggle to clearly communicate their game's vision to partners, leading to misalignment, potential conflicts and a whole slew of other challenges during development and beyond. In this episode, we explore how to establish and share a strong vision within your team, overcome common articulation challenges, and effectively present your vision to potential publishers. Join us as we uncover practical tips and personal experiences shared by our guest to ensure your game vision is understood and supported by all stakeholders.   Episode Shownotes Link: 

Crafting game animation requires more than technical skill, as it's about weaving immersive storytelling into interactive experiences. And while this can enhance gameplay and storytelling, it's a challenge to address...but doesn't always have to be. Today, we're going to dive deep into the craft of game animation, discussing everything from strategies and concepts to the importance of keeping an open mindset, so you can approach game animation with an understanding that will help you level up the experiences you provide for your players. Episode Shownotes Link:

Navigating the world of media relations can be challenging for indie game developers, often struggling to capture the attention of journalists and influencers especially in the current crowded landscape. However, all it can take to tackle these challenges is a simple approach.  Today, we're going to discover actionable strategies for establishing strong media relationships, crafting compelling pitches, and leverage underutilized channels that are effective and help you stand out among the crowd. Episode Shownotes Link:

Indie game devs and studios often struggle with business development, missing out on everything from potential partners and significant growth opportunities. Whether this is due to fear, lack of time, or limited expertise, getting what you need is still obtainable, and simpler than you may think. Today, we're going to reveal key strategies for tackling your biz dev needs, and how to leverage one platform in particular to help generate leads with partners, grow your business and even expand your studio's reach in this competitive industry.   Episode Shownotes Link:

In an industry dominated by action, and complex graphics, creating immersive experiences with simple mechanics can be a daunting endeavor. However, sometimes there's more potential than meets the eye, especially when looking to stand out. Today, we're going to investigate how simple, niche genres can also provide depth, creating a level of immersion that can rival other genres through thoughtful game design, engaging storytelling, and strong community collaboration. Episode Shownotes Link:

Crafting an authentic brand is crucial for indie games, especially when trying to stand out in a competitive market, but despite the need, it can be a real struggle for developers to define their positioning and know exactly what will cut through the noise. In this episode, we're going to discuss valuable insights on effective branding strategies, drawing from indie studio and publisher examples, and even explore how branding can be paried with marketing and storytelling, to help carve your niche and resonate with your audience. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Standing out in a crowded market or busy industry is always a challenge, especially as an indie studio. But what if there was to stand out and create impact while shaping your studio's identity? Well, it's all possible as today we'll explore the power of content creation and how that can not only create awareness and engagement but help showcase your studio's brand too. By discussing effective and innovative approaches, we'll share ways that your studio can stand out, in compelling and meaningful ways that create impact. Episode Shownotes Link:

Any indie studio starting out has to overcome a variety of daunting tasks, but when your working with a micro team, the process can be overwhelming. But, it doesn't have to be.  So today, we're going to discover the key to turning small-scale efforts into big-time results, as we delve into  navigating the development process, crafting effective marketing strategies, and ways to build communities which can all lead to supporting any studio's long term goals.  Episode Shownotes Link:

In an industry where branding bridges diverse platforms and mediums, navigating its nuances presents a lot of different challenges. But overcoming them, can create lots of new opporutnities. Join us as we delve into different strategies and perspectives that can guide your brand seamlessly across different arenas, regardless of your stance, values or position. Discover how to leverage communication skills and forge authentic partnerships to propel your brand forward in the ever-evolving landscape of content creation in the game industry. Episode 254 Shownotes: