BETA | SPECIAL // START YOUR OWN STUDIO Start your own studio
The barriers to entry may have lowered, but setting up shop as a new developer is no less complicated. So we have consulted veterans and experts to provide the ultimate guide on starting your very own studio
OVER THE LAST year, more than 100 new studios have opened doors in the UK, with even more start-ups emerging around the world. And while it may sound like the
development community is getting crowded, there’s always room for bright new faces with shiny new ideas and the determination to bring their unique games to market. But getting started is no easy
task. While indies are able to code from the comfort of their homes, those with larger ambitions need to consider much more before they can get started. Start-ups need to recruit a team, find an office, register themselves as a company, protect their IP and other assets, network with other developers and potential publishers or investors, begin work on actively promoting both themselves and their games, maybe join a trade body – the list goes on.
But fear not – Develop has compiled
a complete guide to setting up your own studio. We’ve spoken with experts in business, law, PR, networking and more, as well as trade bodies and developers who have already survived the rigmarole of opening new studios. In short, we have everything you need before you begin your own development journey. Who knows? Next year, we might be asking for your advice.
AND THERE’S MORE ONLINE Keep your browser pointed to the Developwebsite all this month as we continue our start-up special online. We’ll be publishing more tips from established developers, such as Toxic Games’ account of setting up straight out of education and Game Lab Social’s advice to developers looking to branch off from their current employer.
develop-online.net/startupspecial
Who needs publishers? ...................................p15
In the age of indies, UK studios debate whether start-ups need the support of larger games firms in the same way their forebears have
Lean, mean, developing machines .............p16
TIGA CEO Richard Wilson discusses how Eric Reis’ book The Lean Startup applies to developers, and the benefits of joining a trade body
How to build relationships .............................p18
UKIE CEO Jo Twist ponders the best ways fledgling developers can establish a rapport with both their peers and potential investors
The power of PR .................................................p20
Natalie Griffith, owner of indie agency Press Space, offers advice on how new studios can handle their own PR and video game promotion
Navigating the legal minefield ......................p21
Harbottle & Lewis associate Nic Murfett breaks down the legal hurdles new games developers can expect to face in their early days
Have you forgotten anything? ......................p22
Developers from the UK and beyond share their tips on how to start up a new studio, including those oft-forgotten obstacles like finding an office
14 | NOVEMBER 2013
DEVELOP-ONLINE.NET
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