From Pitching to Self-Publishing: Our experience of rejections for a Game that made ~$750K Gross in 5 Months

Different Viewpoints and Debates

Mainstream Opinions:

• Many developers believe that publishers have high expectations for polished demos and proof of interest before committing to a project.
• There is a general consensus that self-publishing allows developers to retain full revenue and gain valuable marketing experience.
• Some developers argue that publishers can provide valuable resources and expertise, especially for larger projects.
• A common sentiment is that the game industry is highly competitive, and success often depends on a combination of quality, marketing, and timing.

Controversial Opinions:

• Some developers disagree with the idea that publishers are always necessary, arguing that self-publishing can be just as effective if done correctly.
• There is debate about whether publishers truly add value or if they are simply taking a cut of the revenue without providing significant support.
• Some developers feel that the negotiation process with publishers is often unfair, with terms that favor the publisher over the developer.
• There is also discussion about the role of marketing in the success of a game, with some believing that it's more important than the game itself.

Different Perspectives:

• Some developers see publishers as essential partners who can help with marketing, distribution, and funding.
• Others view publishers as unnecessary middlemen who take a large cut of the revenue without providing much value.
• There is a range of opinions on the best approach to pitching games to publishers, with some advocating for a more aggressive strategy and others suggesting a more cautious approach.
• Many developers emphasize the importance of building a strong community and engaging with players directly, rather than relying solely on publishers for marketing.