Digital delivery of content
Digital delivery of content
As an indie developer in training (currently working on my first game) it got me thinking, when the game is at an acceptable level (beta) where should I release it for testing, the only thing that comes to mind like many indie developers is steam's greenlight system which in turn got me thinking, I look at steam's library and I can't help but feel it's over crouded, as an indie developer who want's to support other indie developers (apart from buying their games) I was wondering, is there space in the market for a new distribution platform (with all proceeds from sales go directly to the developers) and help promote indie developers and their games, any comments or suggestions would be most greatly received, Thank you, Max.
Don't share it on Greenlight just yet. Not yet. Build your own site or run a Kickstarter - demo ready. Your personal website with purchases or a development blog. EDIT: It's not stopping you from going on Greenlight. You can still do it, just need a lot of supporters. Share a demo or let people test and rate it.
Discussing GOG, its DRM-free model is impressive—they maintain a solid user base and operate fairly. Many developers avoid publishing games for free, as they rely on revenue from servers, support, and audience growth. There might still be opportunities, but honestly I prefer everything in one place, either DRM-free or through Steam. Self-publishing could work too; maybe release a single level for free on your site, gather feedback, then launch it on a platform later.
From Game Dev Tycoon I understand that self-publishing isn't recommended unless you have a large following. I was also surprised to find that GOG offers features such as submitting your own game.
This forum seems like a solid spot to find testers. Reviewing Greenlight and early access might limit your chances, as you mentioned. It's very competitive, and often there are low-quality products. You might want to consider publishing on GoG and Steam once the game is finished.
If you share it on your own site first, I believe it would be much cleaner for testing with beta users.
Skilled hands from this community that might be here today. Edited: Or someone in the basement wearing sandals and a green sweater, holding a car cover, starting simple coding projects and progressing to office work, with many team members involved (GDT Ref.)
Get it posted in the PC Gaming Section—everyone will love testing it.