Role playing games (RPGs) have been around for decades. It's a genre of video games that allows players to assume the role of a character within a game world and interact with other characters and the environment. RPGs have become more popular over the years, with developers creating new and innovative games that offer unique experiences to players. However, creating a new RPG can be challenging due to the high costs of development. Kickstarter has become a popular platform for developers to fund their RPG projects, allowing them to bring their ideas to life.
What is Kickstarter?
Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform that allows creators to fund their projects through the support of others. It's a way for creators to raise money for their projects without having to rely on traditional funding sources like banks or venture capitalists. Kickstarter campaigns have a set duration, usually around 30 days, and a funding goal that must be met for the project to be funded.
How Does Kickstarter Work?
Creators start a Kickstarter campaign by setting a funding goal and a time frame for the campaign. They then create a project page that describes their project and what they plan to do with the funds. The page also includes rewards for backers at different funding levels. Backers can then pledge money to support the project and receive rewards based on their pledge level. If the funding goal is met by the end of the campaign, the project is funded, and the creator receives the funds. If the goal is not met, no funds are collected, and the project does not move forward.
Why is Kickstarter Popular for RPGs?
Kickstarter has become a popular platform for RPG developers for several reasons. First, the costs of game development have increased over the years, making it difficult for indie developers to fund their projects. Kickstarter provides a way for developers to raise the necessary funds without having to rely on traditional funding sources. Second, Kickstarter allows developers to gauge interest in their projects before investing too much time and money into development. If a project fails to meet its funding goal, the developer knows that there may not be enough interest in the project to justify further development. Finally, Kickstarter provides a way for developers to connect with their fans and involve them in the development process. Backers can provide feedback and suggestions, making the final product better and more appealing to potential customers.
Successful RPG Kickstarter Campaigns
Many RPGs have been successfully funded through Kickstarter campaigns. Some of the most successful campaigns include:
Pillars of Eternity
Pillars of Eternity is an isometric RPG developed by Obsidian Entertainment. The game was funded through a Kickstarter campaign in 2012, raising over $4 million. The game was released in 2015 and received critical acclaim for its story, characters, and gameplay.
Divinity: Original Sin
Divinity: Original Sin is a turn-based RPG developed by Larian Studios. The game was funded through a Kickstarter campaign in 2013, raising over $1 million. The game was released in 2014 and received positive reviews for its depth, complexity, and humor.
Wasteland 2
Wasteland 2 is a post-apocalyptic RPG developed by inXile Entertainment. The game was funded through a Kickstarter campaign in 2012, raising over $3 million. The game was released in 2014 and received positive reviews for its story, characters, and gameplay.
The Future of RPGs on Kickstarter
Kickstarter has become a popular platform for RPG developers, and it's likely that we'll continue to see more RPGs funded through the platform in the future. As game development costs continue to rise, indie developers will need to find new and innovative ways to fund their projects. Kickstarter provides a way for these developers to connect with their fans and raise the necessary funds to bring their ideas to life.
Conclusion
Kickstarter has become a valuable platform for RPG developers, allowing them to fund their projects and connect with their fans. The success of campaigns like Pillars of Eternity, Divinity: Original Sin, and Wasteland 2 shows that there is a demand for high-quality RPGs, and Kickstarter provides a way for developers to meet that demand. As game development costs continue to rise, it's likely that we'll see more RPGs funded through Kickstarter in the future.
