How to Prepare a Pre-Launch Checklist for Your Game’s Crowdfunding Campaign

23 May 2025

Launching a crowdfunding campaign for your game is no small task, is it? You’ve poured countless hours into designing, coding, and creating your dream project, and now it’s time to share that dream with the world. But here’s the catch: a successful launch doesn’t just happen. It requires careful planning, preparation, and an organized approach to ensure your campaign stands out in the crowded space of crowdfunding platforms.

This is where a pre-launch checklist comes in handy. Think of it like packing your bags before an epic road trip. Miss a few essentials, and you might find yourself in a bind. But pack smart, and you’re all set for a smooth ride. So, let’s dive into how you can prepare a rock-solid pre-launch checklist for your game’s crowdfunding campaign. By the end of this article, you'll have a crystal-clear roadmap to get started.

Why You Need a Pre-Launch Checklist

Ever heard the phrase, "Fail to prepare, prepare to fail"? Nothing could be truer when it comes to crowdfunding. A pre-launch checklist helps you identify the key elements your campaign needs, ensuring you don’t overlook anything important. It’s like a recipe for success—if you skip steps or forget ingredients, your end result will fall flat.

Crowdfunding campaigns involve a lot of moving parts: marketing, budgeting, community building, platform setup, and much more. Without a checklist, even the most experienced creators can get overwhelmed. Trust me, the last thing you want is to scramble at the eleventh hour because you forgot something crucial.

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Target Audience

Start With Your 'Why'

Ask yourself: Why are you launching this crowdfunding campaign? Is it to raise funds for development? Build a community around your game? Validate your concept? Clearly defining your goals will shape the rest of your campaign strategy. Having a strong “why” is your lighthouse—it keeps you focused, even when the waters get choppy.

Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience is just as critical. Are you targeting die-hard gamers, casual players, or a niche community, like fans of pixel art or survival horror? Dive deep into their preferences, habits, and pain points. This information will guide your messaging, reward tiers, and marketing strategies.

Think about it like this: If you were throwing a party, you’d tailor it to your guests, right? You wouldn’t serve sushi at an all-burger crowd. Similarly, know your audience inside and out to make your campaign resonate with them.

Step 2: Choose the Right Crowdfunding Platform

Before you start counting your future backers, decide where your campaign will live. Platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or Gamefound each have their unique pros and cons.

- Kickstarter: Great for games! It’s well-known and has tons of traffic, but the “all-or-nothing” funding model might feel risky.
- Indiegogo: Offers flexible funding, so you get whatever money you raise, but it’s not as niche-focused on games.
- Gamefound: Ideal if your game involves physical components like board games, but its audience is slightly smaller.

Pick the platform that aligns with your goals and audience. But don’t stop there—study the platform’s successful campaigns to see what works.

Step 3: Build a Community Before Launching

Start Early

A loyal community is the backbone of any successful crowdfunding campaign. Waiting until launch day to build that community? Big mistake. Start engaging people months in advance.

Use Social Media

Platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and Discord are your best friends here. Share sneak peeks, concept art, and behind-the-scenes updates. Make it personal—people love knowing the creator behind the project. And don’t just talk about your game; interact with your followers. Be approachable, and they’ll root for your success.

Build an Email List

Think email is old-school? Think again. Email marketing is still one of the most effective ways to reach potential backers. Set up a landing page for your game and offer something enticing (like exclusive art or early access to updates) in exchange for email sign-ups.

Step 4: Plan Your Campaign Page

Your campaign page is your virtual storefront. It needs to wow visitors at first glance. Here are the essentials:

A Gripping Headline

Your headline should immediately communicate what your game is and why it’s unique. Think of it as the hook that reels people in.

High-Quality Visuals

Let’s be real: People judge books by their covers, and they’ll judge your campaign by its visuals. Invest in eye-catching graphics, gameplay videos, and GIFs that show off your game’s personality.

A Clear Story

Your campaign page should tell a story. Why did you create this game? What makes it special? What journey are you inviting backers to be part of? Don’t just sell—connect.

Reward Tiers

Offer backers something exciting in return for their support. Think digital goodies, physical merch, or even exclusive in-game content. Make sure the rewards are enticing but realistic—you don’t want to overpromise and underdeliver.

Step 5: Set a Realistic Funding Goal

Setting your funding goal is tricky. Too high, and you might scare off potential backers. Too low, and you risk not covering your project’s costs.

Here’s a pro tip: Create a detailed budget beforehand. Factor in everything—development, marketing, platform fees, production costs for rewards, and shipping. Add a buffer for unexpected expenses.

Step 6: Plan Your Marketing Strategy

Establish a Content Calendar

Consistency is key when it comes to marketing. Plan out your social media posts, blog updates, email newsletters, and promotional tweets ahead of time. A content calendar keeps you organized and ensures you stay on track.

Collaborate With Influencers

Reach out to YouTubers, streamers, and bloggers who cater to your target audience. A shoutout from the right influencer can skyrocket your campaign’s visibility. But don’t be spammy—build genuine relationships and make your pitch personal.

Leverage Press

Write a killer press release and contact gaming websites or journalists. A feature on a reputable gaming site can give your campaign a credibility boost.

Step 7: Test Everything

Soft Launch

Before going live, consider running a “soft launch.” Share your campaign page with friends, family, or a small group of testers. Gather feedback and make adjustments.

Check Technicalities

Test every link, button, and page on your campaign. The last thing you want is for someone to click “pledge” only to hit a broken link.

Step 8: Create Buzz Right Before Launch

A quiet launch is a missed opportunity. Build hype before the big day! Count down the days on social media, tease rewards, or even host a live Q&A. The goal is to make people feel excited and ready to back your campaign as soon as it goes live.

Bonus Tip: Stay Genuine

Finally, remember to be authentic. Crowdfunding isn’t just about money—it’s about building connections. Share your passion, be transparent, and show gratitude to your backers. People will support you because they believe in you as much as your game.

Wrapping It Up

Preparing a pre-launch checklist for your game’s crowdfunding campaign is no small feat, but it’s absolutely worth the effort. From defining your goals to building a community, choosing the right platform, and planning your marketing, each step is critical. Think of this checklist as your survival guide in the wild jungle of crowdfunding—you’ll not only survive but thrive.

Crowdfunding is as much about heart as it is about strategy. Pour your passion into your preparation, and you’ll set yourself up for success.