Is it Okay to Show Your Progress in Game Development as an Indie Developer?
Understanding the Benefits of Sharing Your Progress
Sharing your progress as an indie game developer is not just a recommended practice, but a necessity to gain recognition and support from your community. This open sharing can serve as a powerful tool for both promotion and fundraising. Here’s why indie game developers should indeed post their progress:Firstly, sharing the mechanics of your game, such as the fighting system, driving, dialogue system, and more, can pique the interest of potential players and fans. By posting these elements regularly, you create a sense of anticipation and engagement among your followers. This continuous communication helps build a loyal fanbase that is invested in your project and eager to see the development unfold.
By following the progress of your game, your fans can provide valuable feedback and suggestions. This not only improves the overall quality of your game but also makes your community feel part of the creative process. Additionally, posting regular updates can attract new followers who are interested in the journey of independent game development. They might even become your supporters, funding your endeavors or purchasing the game once it's released.
Moreover, sharing your progress can make your game seem more real and tangible. When fans are able to see the development process, it gives them a sense that the game is under active development and not just a distant dream. This can make them more inclined to pre-order or wishlist the game, knowing that their support will help bring it to life more quickly.
Striking a Balance: Avoiding Spoilers
While sharing your progress is beneficial, it’s important to strike a balance and avoid spoiling crucial elements of your game. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this delicate balance:Elements like the story ending or major impactful events, such as a character’s death or a significant plot twist, should be handled with caution. While it’s tempting to share these moments, revealing too much too early can detract from the impact and enjoyment players will experience when they reach these segments of the game. Instead, you can share snippets of the storyline or intriguing details about these events that will keep your fans curious without giving away the plot.
Avoid posting specific moments that could significantly alter the narrative experience. For instance, detailed battle scenes or specific in-game scenarios should be kept under wraps. Instead, share general information about how these mechanics will work, providing a sense of the gameplay without revealing too much.
You can also use teasers or hints to keep your audience engaged. For example, you might share a piece of concept art or a brief scene from your game that teases a major element of the story or gameplay, without giving away the full picture. This approach keeps your fans excited and guessing, leading to a more satisfying gaming experience.