In this 2017 GDC talk, Brian Upton, the founder of Game On The Rails, shares 30 common mistakes that game developers make when pitching their games to publishers. Upton provides valuable insights into how publishers evaluate game pitches, what they care about, and what developers can do to present their games in the best possible light.
Upton begins by emphasizing the importance of knowing your audience and tailoring your pitch to the publisher you are pitching to. He stresses that publishers are not interested in hearing about your personal story or how passionate you are about your game. They want to know how your game will make money and how it fits into their portfolio.
One of the most common mistakes that developers make is failing to communicate the core gameplay mechanics of their game. Upton stresses that publishers want to see gameplay, not just concept art or a flashy trailer. Developers should focus on demonstrating their game's unique selling point and why it stands out in a crowded market.
Another common mistake that developers make is failing to provide a clear target audience for their game. Publishers want to know who your game is for and why they will want to play it. Developers should be able to clearly articulate their game's target audience, including demographics, interests, and playstyle.
Upton also highlights the importance of having a clear and concise pitch. Developers should be able to explain their game in one sentence or less. They should avoid using buzzwords or jargon and focus on communicating the core gameplay mechanics and unique selling point of their game.
Developers should also be prepared to answer tough questions from publishers, including questions about the competition and how they plan to market their game. Upton stresses that developers should be honest and transparent in their answers and avoid making unrealistic promises.
In addition to these common mistakes, Upton also discusses the importance of having a strong team, providing a clear roadmap for development, and being open to feedback and iteration.
Overall, Upton's talk provides valuable insights into the game pitching process and highlights some of the most common mistakes that developers make. By avoiding these mistakes and following Upton's advice, developers can increase their chances of getting their game published and achieving success in the competitive world of game development.
The quality of the content is excellent and Upton's knowledge and experience in the industry shines through in his presentation. This talk is a must-watch for any game developer looking to pitch their game to a publisher.
