Breaking Down the Basics: Crowdfunding Platforms Every Game Developer Should Know

28 July 2025

So, you’ve got a killer game idea. Maybe it’s the next pixel-perfect platformer, or a mind-blowing open-world RPG. Either way, there’s just one massive brick wall between you and the dream—money. Don’t worry, you’re far from alone. Game development isn’t cheap, and publishers aren’t exactly lining up for indie devs with a wild vision and zero funding.

But what if you could flip the script and let gamers themselves fund your project? That’s where crowdfunding steps in. It’s not just a buzzword—it’s a lifeline. Crowdfunding has exploded into one of the most reliable ways for game developers to raise that all-important capital and simultaneously build a rabid community before the game even launches.

In this no-BS, straight-to-the-point guide, we’re breaking down the best crowdfunding platforms every game developer needs to know. If you’re looking to bring your game to life without selling your soul or giving up creative control, this one’s for you.

Why Crowdfunding?

Let’s talk turkey. Traditional funding sucks for indie game devs. Banks don’t get you. Venture capitalists want a slice of your soul. And publishers? Good luck getting on their radar unless you’ve already got a hit on your hands.

Crowdfunding flips the power back into your hands. You pitch directly to your potential players, tell your story, throw out some sweet rewards, and if your idea resonates, boom—you’re funded.

Not only do you raise money, but you also:

- Build a community early.
- Get real-time feedback from fans.
- Validate your game concept before you spend years building it.

It’s a win-win. But not all crowdfunding platforms are created equal. So let’s dig into the heavy-hitters.

1. Kickstarter – The Kingpin of Game Crowdfunding

If crowdfunding had a Hall of Fame, Kickstarter would easily be the first inductee. It’s the OG platform that put games like Undertale, Shovel Knight, and Bloodstained on the map.

Why Kickstarter Rocks:

- Massive visibility: It’s where gamers go to find cool upcoming projects.
- Dedicated game category: There’s a whole section just for tabletop and video games.
- Proven success stories: Thousands of games have been successfully funded here.

Kickstarter’s Catch:

- It’s all-or-nothing. If you don’t hit your funding goal, you get zilch. Nada. That means setting realistic goals is essential.
- It’s crowded AF. You’ll have to hustle hard to stand out.

Pro Tip: A killer trailer, engaging storytelling, and enticing stretch goals can make or break your campaign here. Treat your campaign like a product launch, not a last-minute plea.

2. Indiegogo – The Flexible Contender

Indiegogo is like Kickstarter’s chill cousin who doesn’t mind if you don’t hit your goal. It’s more flexible, and for some devs, that makes it the better pick.

Why Devs Like Indiegogo:

- Flexible funding: You can choose to keep whatever amount you raise.
- InDemand feature: You can keep raising funds even after your campaign ends.
- Global-friendly: Slightly less US-centric than Kickstarter.

Where It Falls Short:

- Less visibility in the gaming space.
- Less trust from hardcore gamers—Kickstarter still carries more clout.

Pro Tip: If your game has international appeal or you’re unsure you’ll hit your goal, Indiegogo gives you breathing room.

3. Fig – For Gamers, By Gamers

Fig is built exclusively for funding games. That’s right—no smartwatches, no potato salad projects—just games, baby. Oh, and did we mention you can offer revenue sharing?

What Makes Fig Unique:

- Equity funding options: Backers can become investors and share in the profits.
- Curated platform: Projects are selected, so it feels more premium.
- Developer-friendly terms: Fig’s built by people who know games.

The Downside:

- Not open to everyone: You have to apply and get approved.
- Narrower audience: Less traffic than Kickstarter or Indiegogo.

Pro Tip: If your game is polished and has real commercial potential, Fig’s investor model could give you long-term funding and a loyal backer base.

4. Gamefound – Tabletop’s Secret Weapon

If your game lives on a board instead of a screen, give Gamefound a good, hard look. It’s tailored for tabletop games and rivals Kickstarter in that niche.

Why Gamefound Is a Winner:

- Custom tools for board games: Think pledge managers, stretch goals, and shipping calculators baked right in.
- High conversion rates: The audience here wants games like yours.
- Partnerships with publishers: There’s an ecosystem you can tap into.

What to Watch Out For:

- Less exposure for video games: This is mainly a tabletop playground.
- Smaller platform overall: Fewer eyeballs than the juggernauts.

Pro Tip: If you’re making a card game, party game, or tabletop RPG, Gamefound might be the sweet spot between features and focus.

5. Patreon – Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Unlike the other platforms, Patreon isn’t about one big campaign. It’s more about long-term, ongoing support from a dedicated community.

Why Patreon Is Worth It:

- Recurring monthly income: It’s like your fanbase is paying your rent.
- Community building: You can develop deep relationships with supporters.
- Creative freedom: No deadlines, no campaign pressure.

Not Ideal If:

- You need a large chunk of cash fast.
- You’re just starting out and don’t have an audience yet.

Pro Tip: Perfect for episodic and long-term projects. If you’re planning regular updates, patches, or content drops, Patreon can keep your dev lights on.

6. Ko-fi – The No-Nonsense Tip Jar

Ko-fi is the no-frills alternative to Patreon. Think of it as a tip jar for creatives, including game devs.

Why Ko-fi Works:

- No fees on small donations: That’s right, 0% cut on one-time tips.
- Simple setup: No hoops, just a clean page and payment options.
- Great for low-key support: Perfect for prototypes and dev logs.

Why It’s Not Enough Alone:

- No discovery features: People have to already know you.
- Low project funding potential: Not ideal for big launches.

Pro Tip: Pair Ko-fi with social media or your dev blog. Every little donation helps, and Ko-fi keeps it sweet and simple.

7. Crowdfundr – The New Kid With Promise

Crowdfundr is fresh on the block, but it’s got some perks worth looking at—especially for indie devs who want control.

Crowdfundr’s Cool Factor:

- No platform fees: Yes, really.
- Flexible funding: Choose all-or-nothing or keep-what-you-raise.
- Custom branding: You can fully theme your campaign page.

Still Catching Up:

- Smaller audience: Not yet a household name.
- Limited game niche: It’s still building its rep in the gaming world.

Pro Tip: If you already have a fanbase and need a low-cost, flexible platform, Crowdfundr can work magic.

Let’s Talk Strategy: Winning at Crowdfunding

Picking the right platform is half the battle. The other half? Nailing your campaign. Here's your battlefield-ready checklist:

🎯 Set a Realistic Goal

Overreaching is a quick ticket to campaign death. Know your minimum viable budget and aim for that—not the mythical “ideal” dream figure.

🎥 Create a Killer Trailer

People want to feel your passion. Show gameplay, concepts, what makes your game tick. Make it personal.

🎁 Sweeten the Deal

Create irresistible reward tiers. Think early access, exclusive skins, art books, or even naming rights for characters.

🗣️ Talk to Your Community

Crowdfunding isn’t “set it and forget it.” Update often, respond to comments, go live, and keep the hype flowing.

🧠 Market Before You Launch

Your campaign should already have buzz before the first pledge rolls in. Build your email list, tease it on socials, and engage with influencers.

Final Thoughts: Crowdfunding Is a Game in Itself

Crowdfunding isn’t a magic shortcut—it’s more like a side quest that can earn you rare loot if you play it right. Each platform offers a different path, and which one you choose depends on where you are in your dev journey.

Trying to go big and make a splash? Kickstarter's your arena. Want flexibility or international reach? Indiegogo looks good. Eyeing long-term loyalty? Patreon’s got your back. There’s no one-size-fits-all here—just tools. Learn them, use them, and build the game of your dreams your way.

Don’t wait for permission. Build your army, rally your fans, and take your game to the next level—one pledge at a time.