At our game marketing agency, We have thoroughly researched and educated ourselves on how to successfully launch indie projects on Kickstarter. Recently, we had the opportunity to dive deep into some successful Kickstarter campaigns. Here’s what we found, along with actionable insights you can apply to your own Kickstarter campaign. Let´s roll!.

Key Takeaways from Successful Campaigns

Ashes of Creation: Build a Referral Program

Summary: Ashes of Creation is an upcoming MMORPG developed by Intrepid Studios. They managed to raise over $3 million by rewarding players with in-game credits or even cold hard cash for bringing in their buddies. It’s like getting paid to have fun! The game promises a dynamic world where players can shape the land and experience a player-driven economy.

Actionable Insight: Implement a referral program in your game during your kickstarter campaign. Now please be aware that this goes against Kickstarter policies BUT you can whatever you want on your website or slected platform so….

Broken Age: Engage Through Regular Updates

Summary: Broken Age is a point-and-click adventure game developed by Double Fine Productions. They raised over $3.45 million by constantly updating backers with YouTube videos and offering interesting pledge rewards. It’s like being part of an exclusive club where you get behind-the-scenes access to all the shenanigans. The game tells the story of two teenagers in different worlds who seek to break free from their predetermined lives.

Actionable Insight: Keep your backers in the loop with regular updates. Let’s use videos to show off your progress, share some behind-the-scenes shenanigans, and really engage with your audience. We want them to feel like they’re part of the adventure too! And hey, let’s focus on digital rewards to avoid any logistical headaches if this is your first kickstarter. The more excitement we generate, the better!

Torment: Tides of Numenera: Maintain Your Vision

Summary: Torment: Tides of Numenera is a role-playing game developed by inXile Entertainment. By setting a record with over $4 million pledged, the developers kept their vision intact, providing detailed descriptions of gameplay and other production values. The game takes place in the distant future where players explore a surreal and imaginative world.

Actionable Insight: Clearly communicate your game’s vision and unique features on your Kickstarter page. Let’s paint a vivid picture for your potential backers. Detailed descriptions and total transparency build trust and attract an audience that’s totally receptive to your awesomeness. We’ve got to show them what sets your game apart and get them excited to join the adventure!

Darkest Dungeon: Foster Community Involvement

Summary: Darkest Dungeon is a challenging gothic roguelike turn-based RPG developed by Red Hook Studios. The developers engaged backers by involving them in decisions such as character class designs and environments. It’s like having a seat at the developer’s table, where your ideas come to life. The game explores the psychological stresses of adventuring and the horrors that unfold within the dungeons.

Actionable Insight: Involve your community in the development process. Let’s give your backers the power to shape the game. Allow them to vote on features or contribute ideas. This creates a sense of ownership and deepens their connection to your game. It’s like building a family of adventurers who are ready to conquer any challenge!

Undertale: Utilize Demos and Accessibility Features

Summary: Undertale is a critically acclaimed indie RPG developed by Toby Fox. The game gained crazy traction by releasing a demo before the Kickstarter launch and incorporating awesome accessibility features. It’s like getting a sneak peek into a world filled with quirky characters and unforgettable moments. Undertale presents players with a unique world where choices have consequences and emphasizes the importance of kindness and mercy.

Actionable Insight: Release a demo before your campaign to gather feedback and build excitement. We want to give potential backers a taste of the awesomeness that awaits them. And let’s not forget about making your game inclusive with some kickass accessibility features (of course we knows sounds more easy than it is). We want everyone to join in on the fun! Trust us, this will generate some serious positive PR and attract a wider audience.

Loftia (August 2023): Follow Trends and Offer More

Summary: Loftia is a solarpunk MMO that surpassed its goal by raising $1,100,000 USD. The game combines popular genres and strong social aspects, offering players a vibrant, sustainable world to explore. It’s like stepping into a utopia where the sun always shines and adventure awaits at every corner. Players can build their own solar-powered utopias and interact with a supportive community.

Actionable Insight: Analyze current gaming trends and incorporate them into your game design. Let’s give your potential backers what they’re craving and then some! Highlight how your game goes above and beyond the norm by offering additional engaging features. Try to give them more than they even knew they wanted.

Solarpunk (May 2023): Detail-Oriented Campaigns

Summary: Solarpunk is a survival game that raised $306,128.75 USD by having a campaign that was all about the details. Unique art direction, valuable stretch goals, and a world that will leave you breathless. It’s like stepping into a post-apocalyptic world where the power of the sun is your greatest ally. The game immerses players in a world where they must utilize renewable energy and sustainable practices to thrive.

Actionable Insight: Craft a comprehensive Kickstarter campaign page with detailed content about your game’s unique aspects, art style, and stretch goals. Let’s dive deep into the immersive world you’ve created and show potential backers what makes it so special. This level of detail can draw in more backers who are hungry for an unforgettable gaming experience!

RP7 (May 2024): Highlight Unique Mechanics

Summary: RP7 is an RPG that raised $5,987.00 USD with its innovative gameplay using only seven buttons on custom controllers. It’s like unlocking a whole new level of gaming where strategy and skill are everything. The game offers a streamlined experience that focuses on strategic decision-making and deep storytelling set in a futuristic cyberpunk world. Get ready to embark on a thrilling and intense adventure!

Actionable Insight: Emphasize any unique mechanics or innovative aspects of your game. Show potential backers how your game breaks the mold and offers an experience like no other. These unique selling points can intrigue potential backers and set your campaign apart from others.

Final Tips for a Kickass Kickstarter Campaign

• By focusing on these strategies, indie developers can create Kickstarter campaigns that not only meet their funding goals but also build strong, engaged communities around their games. It’s like creating a family of gamers who are ready to support you every step of the way.
• Keep the conversation going with your community
• Talk about your game frequently to build trust, and offer meaningful rewards that resonate with your backers.

Thanks for reading! Let’s make your Kickstarter campaign an absolute blast!

Feel free to reach out if you need personalized advice or assistance with your game’s marketing strategy. We’re here to help you make epicness happen!