Starting My Own Game Dev Company: What I Wish I Knew
By Xander Townsend | Misfit Media Editor
I think that most people within the Australian games industry will agree with me when I say 'getting a position building games is almost impossible', especially when you are a recent post-graduate. As a naïve game animator with my freshly printed Bachelor's certificate and an almost untouchable optimistic approach, I was ecstatic when I received my first offer of full-time work within the industry that provided self-perceived purpose. Little did I know, 7 months later, I would be hit with a redundancy notice and the obligation to rewire the emotional infrastructure I had built after believing that I had 'made it'.
Now that I have established an indie game development company and build up a business, here are three one-liners I wish I knew before diving into the Indie development scene in Australia as a 21 year old game artist with no business experience and an unhealthy capacity for over-working.
1. The game isn't the company
We, as indie developers, will always work in small teams until we have had the luxury of a release success. That usually means we will build one title at a time. When I established my company it was completely centered on my Runaway Mage game release, with no capacity to even think about other potential future titles. One thing you need to understand is there will always be another game. The company's success does not and will not be dependent on this one title. Future-proofing yourself is extremely important.
2. Establishing a company means you will become somewhat of an Accountant
I am very thankful for my mathematical background on many levels. Establishing a company involves understanding how the Australian taxation system works, how GST works (specifically for small businesses), invoicing, contracting individuals, what an ABN vs an ACN is, the AISC and its role in company establishment, and how to go about doing your tax return at the end of the financial year as a creative professional, just to name a few. The main thing to remember is that you don’t need to know everything off the top of your head, but you will need to know how to acquire the information. Whether it be contacting an accountant familiar with this field, or asking other industry professionals that may have some insight.
3. Business value is perceived
Your company doesn't need to see financial success for people to believe it is successful, especially in the early years of establishment. Focus on the calibre of your content, and the future potential of your business. Always have your eye on new concepts, pushing boundaries and establishing presence in industry, even if it doesn't result in monetary reward. Establishing your value based on your content will be much more proactive especially as an indie studio.
After having the pleasure of being able to direct and give physicality to my creative concepts with a team of multiple people, I now believe I couldn't work for anyone but myself. There are extensive hardships involved with supporting yourself through your own business, I am well aware, but I don’t believe that has the capacity to deter me anymore, and it shouldn't you. The only time you truly fail is if you give up entirely.