Unveiling the Hidden Expenses of Indie Game Development

For newcomers to the world of game development, it's easy to underestimate the types of expenses involved. Whether you're transitioning from another career or a recent graduate, there are numerous unforeseen challenges that can lead to additional costs. According to Rebekah Saltsman, CEO of indie publisher Finji, many developers overlook the broader aspects of game development, focusing solely on creating a game for computers. A significant portion of hidden costs stems from poor planning and a lack of understanding of the various tasks required. As Saltsman notes, "all these jobs exist regardless of whether you're a team of one or a team of 5,000. They're all part of game development." Dead Drop Studios, a two-person team, has been producing games since 2017 and emphasizes the importance of considering hidden costs before starting a studio. As CEO Evan Wolbach explains, "these costs are hidden because many people do not have the experience or take the necessary time to do proper project planning, including revisiting the plan regularly during development." Experts share examples of hidden costs, such as the value of time, human resources management, admin costs, hiring, contracting, freelancing, marketing, QA, localization, and hardware expenses. To mitigate these costs, it's essential to plan carefully, considering factors like time management, resource allocation, and budgeting. As Tony Howard-Arias, co-founder of Black Tabby Games, advises, "take your initial assessment of what you can produce in what amount of time, and double it." By being proactive and prepared, developers can minimize the risk of hidden costs and ensure a more successful game development journey. Regularly revising time and budget estimates, identifying potential risks, and maintaining a flexible approach can also help. Ultimately, as Evan Wolbach emphasizes, "it's the whole 'measure twice, cut once' thing. Don't just start making; make sure you have a written plan and you've thought out all the angles and how you'll accomplish them. And have contingency plans for when things go wrong."