Are you a writer with a passion for video games? Do you have a creative mind and a knack for storytelling? If you answered yes to both, you might be an excellent fit for an indie game company looking for writers.
Breaking into the gaming industry as a writer can seem daunting, especially if you’re not sure where to start. However, indie game developers, particularly small ones, can be a great place to learn, gain experience, and showcase your skills.
If you’re wondering how much you could earn as an indie game writer, you’re probably not alone. While the pay can vary depending on the studio and project, there are ways to figure out what you could expect. We’ll explore the average indie game developer salary and what you can do to improve your chances of earning more in this blog post.
Did you know that many indie game studios are hiring remote writers? This means that you might not have to move to work with them. You’ll have to be open to working from home, but it’s becoming increasingly common in the gaming industry.
We’ll give you tips on how to find the best game writer jobs, how to pitch your ideas to indie game developers, and what to expect when you’re working with them. Plus, we’ll touch on what publishers pay indie game developers, which is an essential factor to keep in mind when you’re determining how much to charge for your services.
Ready to take your writing skills to the gaming industry? In this blog post, we’ve got everything you need to know to get started as an indie game writer.
Finding the Perfect Writer for Your Indie Game
Indie game developers may have a brilliant idea for a new game but may lack the necessary writing skills to bring that idea to life. That’s where a good writer comes in. Hiring a writer with experience in storytelling, game development, and character creation can mean the difference between a mediocre game and a great game. In this article, we’ll share with you the top tips for finding the perfect writer for your indie game.
Look for Writers with a Passion for Gaming
When looking for a writer to work with your indie game development team, look for someone who shares your love for gaming. A great writer knows what keeps gamers playing, what drives them to explore new worlds, and what creates the emotional attachment to characters. A writer who is passionate about gaming will understand that the narrative is the heart and soul of a game and won’t settle for anything less than perfection.
Find Writers with Game Development Experience
A writer that has experience working with game development teams is a valuable asset to any indie game developer. Look for writers who have worked on storylines, character development, and dialogue for other games. They can provide valuable insight into the overall design of the game, and their knowledge of narrative structure and pacing can help create a cohesive and fully-realized gaming experience.
Check for Writing Samples and Portfolio
Before hiring a writer, make sure to check their portfolio and writing samples. This will give you a better idea of their writing style, voice, and ability to create memorable characters and settings. It’s essential to find a writer that can match the tone of your game and cater to your target audience.
Collaborate Like a Team
Collaboration is key when working with a writer. Involve them in the creative process, and they can offer unique perspectives and ideas that will enhance your game. Regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and brainstorming meetings will help ensure that the writer’s work complements the overall vision of the game.
Hiring a writer for your indie game can be a daunting task, but by following the tips outlined in this article, you can find the perfect storyteller for your game’s narrative. Remember to look for writers with a passion for gaming, game development experience, writing samples and a portfolio, and those who can collaborate effectively with your team.
Happy Writing!
Game Writer Jobs
Are you a talented writer looking to break into the gaming industry? Well, good news! Indie game developers are always on the lookout for skilled writers who can help create immersive game narratives. In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding and landing game writer jobs.
Where to Find Game Writer Jobs
The first step to landing a game writer job is to find the job listings. Some of the popular websites to look for video game writing jobs include:
- Glassdoor
- Indeed
- Upwork
- Freelancer
You can also browse the job listings on the websites of game design companies and indie studios for open positions.
Skills and Qualifications
To be a successful game writer, you need to have a specific set of skills, including storytelling, world-building, character development, and dialogue writing. You’ll also need to be familiar with game design and have experience with game engines.
A degree in English, creative writing, or journalism can be useful, but it’s not always a requirement as long as you have excellent writing skills and a passion for games.
Tips for Applying for Game Writer Jobs
When applying for a game writer job, make sure your resume and cover letter showcase your writing skills and your passion for video games. Talk about the games you love and how they have influenced your writing. If you have any previous experience in writing for games, make sure to highlight it.
It’s also important to customize your application for each job and pay attention to the company’s specific requirements and needs.
Breaking into the gaming industry as a writer can be challenging, but with determination and the right skills, it’s possible. Keep honing your writing skills and always keep an eye out for job openings. Who knows? You may end up writing the next great game narrative!
Small Indie Game Companies
Indie game development has seen a massive surge in popularity over the last decade. However, the big question still stands: is it possible for small indie game companies to make it big in an industry dominated by large gaming giants?
A Unique Advantage
Small indie game companies come with a unique advantage that large gaming corporations just can’t match: their creative genius! These small teams of developers are free to explore and take risks with their ideas, which can result in original and awe-inspiring games that break the mold.
But, Can They Survive
Nevertheless, the harsh reality is that the market is highly competitive, and it’s a challenge for indie game developers to survive among the big players. However, by focusing on their core values and making games with quality over quantity, small indie game companies can carve out a niche for themselves.
Connecting with the Community
Another way for small indie game companies to survive is by connecting with their player base. These companies often have a smaller and more loyal following compared to the larger corporations, and this makes it easier to interact, listen to feedback and implement changes that would make their games more enjoyable.
Looking for Out of the Box Ideas
What makes small indie games stand out from the crowd is often their unique and out-of-the-box ideas. Players are always looking for games that don’t follow the same old tropes, and small indie game companies are essential to providing those options.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, small indie game companies may face several challenges in the gaming industry, but they have the creative freedom and the ability to make unique and original games. These companies connect with the community and stand out from the crowd by producing out-of-the-box ideas that players crave. Even though the competition is sizable, small indie game companies have a unique advantage that can help them survive and thrive.
Indie Game Developer Salary
When it comes to the world of indie game development, one of the most pressing concerns for many aspiring developers is understanding the potential salary. After all, while a love of gaming and creativity motivates many developers, making a living is still a significant concern. In this section, we’ll explore the indie game developer salary, what to expect, and how to improve your earning potential.
What is the Average Indie Game Developer Salary
Like many other creative careers, the indie game development salary can vary significantly from person to person, project to project, and region to region. Several factors influence earning potential, such as skills, experience, job title, project scope, and company size. In general, however, indie game developers can expect to earn between $50,000 to $100,000 per year, with average hourly rates ranging from $20 to $120.
How Can You Increase Your Earning Potential
The best way to maximize your indie game developer salary is by improving your skills, experience, and marketability. Some strategies that can help you earn more include:
Developing in-demand skills
In today’s competitive job market, having proficiencies in popular tech stacks, coding languages, and development tools can give you a crucial advantage. Stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and acquire new marketable skills.
Building a portfolio of quality work
Showcase your skills by developing a diverse portfolio of high-quality and compelling games. This will impress potential clients and employers and demonstrate your ability to deliver engaging and polished content.
Networking and collaborating
Networking with other developers and industry professionals can help you identify new opportunities, learn new skills, and make valuable connections. Collaborating on projects can also expand your skillset, portfolio and further your experience level.
Diversifying your income streams
While salaried employment may offer financial stability and predictability, other monetization avenues can increase your overall income. Consider tapping into revenue sources like game sales, merchandising, or game development consulting.
The indie game developer salary isn’t set in stone, but understanding the factors that affect your earning potential can help you make informed decisions as you navigate your career. By continuing to build your skills, create a successful portfolio, and take on new projects, you can increase your value in the industry and earn a competitive salary while living your passion as a game developer.
Indie Game Studios Hiring Remote
The trend of remote work has been increasingly gaining traction in sectors such as technology, media, and entertainment. The gaming industry is no exception as indie game studios are increasingly hiring remote workers globally. In this section, we will explore the benefits of working remotely for indie game studios and highlight some of the top studios that are actively hiring remote writers.
Benefits of Working Remotely for Indie Game Studios
Flexibility
Working for an indie game studio remotely brings with it many benefits, such as the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world. This means you can work from your home office or your favorite coffee shop while still delivering on your writing assignments.
Diverse Work Environment
Working remotely will allow you to work with a diverse group of individuals from all over the world. This diversity allows for expansion of your creative horizons and exposes you to different cultures and ways of thinking.
Reduced Commuting Time and Expenses
Remote workers do not have to commute daily to work which saves time, money and energy. As an indie game writer, you can minimize transportation expenses while also reducing your environmental footprint.
Top Indie Game Studios Hiring Remote Writers
Gameloft
Gameloft is a leading game development studio that has been creating games since 2000. The studio’s global presence allows it to hire remote workers from around the world. With hits such as Asphalt and Modern Combat, Gameloft is an excellent studio for writers looking to work remotely.
Ubisoft
Ubisoft is one of the largest game developers and publishers in the world. It boasts a significant presence in North America, Europe, and Asia. Ubisoft is known for games like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Just Dance. Writing jobs at Ubisoft offer the opportunity to work with a world-class team from anywhere in the world.
Supercell
Supercell is a Finnish game developer known for games such as Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, and Brawl Stars. The company allows its employees to work remotely, making it an excellent option for indie game writers looking to join a reputable game development studio.
In conclusion, indie game studios are adopting remote work culture, and writers can take advantage of this trend to secure job roles. The flexibility, reduced commuting time and expenses and diverse work environment associated with working remotely make it a viable option for game writers. Gameloft, Ubisoft and Supercell are among the top indie game studios that hire remote writers globally.
Game Developers Looking for Ideas
As an indie game developer, one of the biggest challenges you might face is coming up with fresh and interesting ideas for your games. If you find yourself struggling to come up with new concepts, don’t worry! Here are some tips to help you get those creative juices flowing:
Draw Inspiration from the World Around You
The world is full of interesting people, places, and stories. Take inspiration from your own experiences, the news, and pop culture to find ideas for your games. For example, you could create a game based on a recent news story, or a game that takes place in a city you’ve visited.
Think Outside the Box
Don’t limit yourself to traditional game ideas or genres. Sometimes the best ideas come from thinking outside the box and trying something new. Consider mashing up two unlikely genres, or creating a game that defies genres altogether.
Collaborate with Others
Sometimes bouncing ideas off of others can help spark creativity. Find other game developers, artists, or writers to collaborate with and brainstorm new ideas together. You never know what amazing ideas may come out of a collaborative effort.
Play Other Games
Playing other games can also be a great source of inspiration. Pay attention to the mechanics, storylines, and overall feel of games that you enjoy, and see if there are elements that you can incorporate into your own projects.
Take Breaks and Relax
Finally, remember to take breaks and relax! Sometimes the best ideas come when you least expect them. Take a walk, try a new hobby, or simply take a nap to clear your mind and allow new ideas to surface.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to generating plenty of fresh and exciting ideas for your next indie game project. So go ahead and let your creativity shine!
How much can an indie game writer earn
If you’re considering becoming an indie game writer, one of the crucial questions you’ll likely want to ask is how much you can expect to earn. As you may imagine, given the variety of game-writing jobs and possibilities available, the answer is not always clear. However, we can give you some general guidelines.
Average Rates for Freelance Indie Game Writing
On average, freelance indie game writers earn around $0.10 to $0.15 per word for their work. This amount is slightly higher than the general market rate for other types of writing such as copywriting or journalistic work. To put it simply, if you write a 1000-word post for a game that pays $0.10 per word, you’ll earn $100 for that particular job.
Full-time Indie Game Writing Jobs
Full-time indie game writers might receive a yearly salary or hourly wage. Suppose you’re employed full-time and have experience in writing video games and have good reviews on your work. In that case, you can earn anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000 a year or more, depending on your experience level and the type of projects you work on.
Factors That Influence Rates
Various factors determine how much an indie game writer can earn. One critical aspect is the writer’s experience level, with more skilled writers commanding higher rates. Another significant factor is the scope and complexity of the project, with larger and more complex games requiring more extensive writing and correspondingly higher rates.
In conclusion, indie game writers can expect to earn anywhere from $0.10 to $0.15 per word as freelancers, while full-time employees can earn between $50,000 and $100,000 a year. Naturally, these are just rough guidelines, and the amount of money you can earn will depend on your experience, the scope and complexity of your projects, and the market demand for your services.
How Much Do Publishers Pay Indie Game Devs
If you’re an indie game developer looking to publish your game with a publisher, you might be wondering how much you can expect to be paid. Unfortunately, there isn’t a clear-cut answer to that question as it varies from publisher to publisher and even from game to game. However, there are a few things you should know about how publishers typically pay indie game developers.
Revenue Share
One of the most common ways that publishers pay indie game developers is through revenue share. This means that the developer and the publisher split the revenue generated from the game sales. The percentage split varies, but it’s typically a 70/30 split in favor of the developer. This means that the developer gets 70% of the revenue generated, and the publisher gets 30%.
Advance Against Royalties
Another way that publishers pay indie game developers is through an advance against royalties. This means that the publisher pays the developer upfront, and the developer receives a percentage of the revenue generated from the game sales once the advance has been recouped. The percentage split varies, but it’s typically a 50/50 split. This means that the developer gets 50% of the revenue generated, and the publisher gets 50%.
Flat Fee
Finally, some publishers pay indie game developers a flat fee upfront for the rights to publish their game. The amount varies, but it’s typically in the range of $5,000 to $20,000. This means that the developer receives a lump sum upfront, and the publisher takes all the revenue generated from the game sales.
Which Payment Method Is Right for You
Deciding which payment method is right for you depends on your goals and financial situation. If you’re looking for a consistent stream of income, revenue share might be the best option. If you need money upfront to fund your game development, an advance against royalties might be a good option. If you’re financially stable and want a guaranteed sum upfront, a flat fee may be your best option.
In conclusion, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how much publishers pay indie game developers. It varies from publisher to publisher and even from game to game. However, understanding the different payment methods available can help you make an informed decision about which approach is best for you.
How to Break into the Gaming Industry as a Writer
If you love writing and video games, you might be wondering how to combine those interests to create a career. Luckily, there are several ways to get into the gaming industry as a writer.
Start a Gaming Blog
One of the easiest ways to get started and gain experience is by creating your own gaming blog. This will allow you to get your writing out there and start building a portfolio. Start by writing reviews of games you’ve played, industry news, or any gaming-related topic that interests you. Share your blog on social media to build a following and get your work noticed.
Network within the Industry
Networking within the industry can be a valuable way to get your foot in the door. Attend gaming events, such as E3 or PAX, and strike up conversations with developers, publishers, and other industry professionals. You never know who you might meet or what opportunities may arise from those conversations.
Apply for Freelance Writing Jobs
Another way to get started in the gaming industry is to apply for freelance writing jobs. Check out job boards and freelance websites for opportunities to write articles, reviews, or other types of content for gaming websites or publications. This can help you build your portfolio and gain experience working with editors and other professionals in the industry.
Create a Portfolio
Regardless of how you get started, creating a strong portfolio is essential for getting noticed and landing jobs in the gaming industry. Your portfolio should showcase your best work, including writing samples, blog posts, and anything else that demonstrates your skills and experience. Be sure to highlight your passion for gaming and your unique perspective as a writer.
Keep Writing and Building Your Skills
Getting into the gaming industry as a writer is not easy, so it’s important to keep writing and honing your skills. Take writing classes or workshops, read books on writing, and practice your craft regularly. The more you write, the better you’ll get.
Remember, breaking into the gaming industry as a writer takes persistence, creativity, and dedication. But with a little hard work and a lot of passion, you can turn your love of gaming and writing into a rewarding career.
