What Makes a Game Not Indie? Exploring the Criteria for Non-Independent Games

When it comes to the world of gaming, indie games have been gaining more and more attention in recent years. But what about the games that don’t fit into this category? What makes a game not indie? In this article, we’ll explore the criteria that distinguish non-indie games from their independent counterparts. From funding sources to development teams, we’ll dive into the factors that contribute to a game’s classification as non-indie. So whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, join us as we explore the world of non-indie games and what sets them apart.

Factors Affecting a Game’s Indie Status

Game Development Team Size

One of the key factors that can impact a game’s classification as an indie game is the size of the development team. Typically, games with small teams are considered indie games, while larger teams often lead to a different classification.

Small Teams

Games developed by small teams, usually consisting of fewer than ten people, are often considered indie games. These teams may include developers, artists, designers, and other specialists, all working together to create a unique gaming experience.

Small teams have the advantage of being highly flexible and adaptable, allowing them to quickly respond to feedback and make changes as needed. They also tend to have a more personal connection to their projects, as team members often wear multiple hats and contribute to various aspects of the game’s development.

Larger Teams

In contrast, games developed by larger teams, sometimes numbering in the hundreds, are often not considered indie games. These teams typically have more resources and funding, enabling them to create more complex and polished games. However, they may also be subject to greater scrutiny and pressure to meet certain expectations.

Larger teams can bring a wide range of expertise to a project, allowing for more specialized roles and a more structured development process. However, they may also face challenges in terms of communication and coordination, as well as the potential for creative differences among team members.

Impact on Game Development

The size of a game’s development team can have a significant impact on the game’s development process and the final product. Smaller teams may face challenges in terms of resources and funding, but they can also be more agile and adaptable, allowing them to create unique and innovative games. Larger teams, on the other hand, may have more resources and funding, but they may also be subject to greater pressure and scrutiny, which can impact the creative process.

Ultimately, the size of a game’s development team is just one factor that can impact its classification as an indie game. Other factors, such as funding sources and distribution channels, can also play a role in determining whether a game is considered indie or not.

Production Budget

The production budget of a game is a crucial factor in determining its indie status. Generally, low-budget games are considered indie games, while high-budget games are classified differently. The following points highlight the impact of production budget on a game’s indie status:

• Low-budget games: Games with limited financial resources often fall under the indie game category. These games are typically developed by small teams or individual developers who lack the resources to create large-scale productions. The limited budget forces these developers to be creative and innovative, resulting in unique and sometimes unconventional gameplay experiences.
• High-budget games: Games with substantial financial backing usually have different classifications. These games are typically developed by larger studios with access to more resources, such as advanced technology, experienced developers, and marketing budgets. The high budget allows for greater production values, including high-quality graphics, immersive sound design, and complex gameplay mechanics.
• Indie game identity: While a low budget is often associated with indie games, it is not a definitive factor. Some indie games have managed to secure funding from investors or through crowdfunding campaigns, allowing them to have higher budgets without losing their indie game identity. Conversely, high-budget games can also maintain their indie status if they are developed by small teams or independent studios that retain creative control over the project.
• Indie game culture: The indie game culture values creativity, innovation, and experimentation over big-budget productions. While high-budget games may have impressive production values, they may not align with the indie game culture’s values. Therefore, even if a high-budget game is developed by an independent studio, it may not be considered an indie game if it does not align with the cultural values of the indie game community.

Distribution and Publishing

• Self-publishing is common in indie games
• Publisher involvement may lead to non-indie classification

When examining the factors that impact a game’s indie status, distribution and publishing play a crucial role. The independent game development scene has witnessed a surge in self-publishing, where developers release their creations directly to the market without relying on traditional publishers. This approach has become synonymous with the indie game movement, as it allows creators to maintain creative control and foster a sense of ownership over their projects.

However, when a game’s distribution and publishing processes involve traditional publishers, it can be argued that the game may no longer be considered indie. The presence of a publisher typically implies a higher level of financial backing, marketing support, and access to resources that are not readily available to indie developers. This shift in control and influence can result in a game being classified as non-indie, as it deviates from the core principles of independence and self-sufficiency that define the indie game scene.

That being said, it is important to recognize that not all publisher involvement automatically leads to a game being labeled as non-indie. Some indie developers have successfully collaborated with publishers to bring their games to a wider audience without compromising their creative vision or independence. In these cases, the line between indie and non-indie can become blurred, highlighting the nuances and complexities involved in defining what constitutes an indie game.

Ultimately, the level of publisher involvement in a game’s distribution and publishing processes can serve as a determining factor in whether or not the game is considered indie. While self-publishing remains a cornerstone of the indie game movement, the presence of traditional publishers may indicate a shift away from the core values of independence and self-sufficiency that define the indie game scene.

Game Platform Availability

One of the primary factors that determine a game’s indie status is its platform availability. Indie games are known for their cross-platform availability, allowing players to enjoy the game on multiple devices. This feature is essential for indie developers as it increases the reach of their games and allows them to reach a broader audience.

However, if a game is exclusive to a specific platform, it may be classified as non-indie. For instance, if a game is only available on PlayStation, it is likely to be developed by a large game development studio, and not an indie developer.

Additionally, the timeline of a game’s release across different platforms can also impact its indie status. If a game is released on one platform first and then released on other platforms after a considerable amount of time, it may be considered non-indie. This is because indie developers typically release their games on multiple platforms simultaneously to ensure maximum reach and exposure.

Furthermore, the revenue sharing model between the developer and the platform can also impact a game’s indie status. If a developer earns a significantly lower percentage of revenue compared to the platform, it may be classified as non-indie. This is because indie developers typically retain a larger percentage of revenue from their games, allowing them to sustain their business and continue creating new games.

In conclusion, a game’s platform availability is a crucial factor in determining its indie status. If a game is exclusive to one platform, released on multiple platforms after a significant amount of time, or has a revenue sharing model that favors the platform over the developer, it may be classified as non-indie.

Marketing and Promotion

In the world of gaming, the way a game is marketed and promoted can play a significant role in determining whether it is considered indie or not. Here are some factors that can impact a game’s indie status based on its marketing and promotion:

• Grassroots marketing is a common strategy used by indie game developers. This approach involves leveraging social media, word-of-mouth, and community-driven promotion to create buzz around the game. Grassroots marketing often relies on the passion and dedication of the developers and their communities to spread the word about the game.
• Professional marketing and PR campaigns, on the other hand, can be a sign that a game is not indie. Large budgets and professional marketing teams are typically associated with larger game development studios and publishers. While indie games may have limited resources, they often make up for it with creativity and ingenuity in their marketing efforts.
• Lack of mainstream media coverage is another factor that can indicate a game’s indie status. Indie games may not have the same level of exposure as AAA games, and they may not receive coverage from mainstream gaming media outlets. However, this does not mean that indie games cannot gain significant attention and recognition through alternative channels, such as social media and gaming communities.
• Partnerships with larger companies can also impact a game’s indie status. While collaborations between indie developers and larger companies can provide valuable resources and exposure, they may also signal a loss of independence and control over the game’s development and marketing.

Overall, the marketing and promotion of a game can provide valuable insights into its indie status. While indie games may have limited resources, they often demonstrate creativity and passion in their marketing efforts, which can help them stand out in a crowded market.

Community Engagement

Indie games are often characterized by their close-knit communities that provide active engagement and feedback to developers. This interaction fosters a sense of ownership and involvement in the game’s development process, leading to a more dedicated and passionate player base. Conversely, games with limited or no community engagement may suggest a lack of indie status.

To better understand the role of community engagement in determining a game’s indie status, let’s examine some key aspects:

• Developer Involvement: Indie developers typically actively participate in online discussions, answer questions, and address player concerns. They may also host AMA (Ask Me Anything) sessions, where they openly communicate with the community. This direct interaction humanizes the development process, strengthening the bond between players and developers.
• Beta Testing: Indie games often rely on beta testing to ensure the game’s quality before release. Beta testers, who are usually members of the community, provide valuable feedback and report bugs, helping to improve the game. This collaborative approach benefits both the developers and the players, ensuring a more polished final product.
• Social Media Presence: A strong social media presence is crucial for indie games to build and maintain a community. Regular updates, developer diaries, and behind-the-scenes content keep players engaged and informed. This transparency fosters trust and encourages players to support the game during its development and beyond.
• Early Access: Many indie games utilize early access platforms like Steam Early Access or Kickstarter to involve the community in the development process. Players can provide feedback, suggestions, and report issues, which developers can then address before the game’s full release. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the final product meets the expectations of its community.
• Community Events: Indie games often host community events, such as tournaments, art contests, or fan-made content showcases. These events encourage player creativity and foster a sense of belonging within the community. By recognizing and celebrating the contributions of its members, indie games create a more vibrant and engaged player base.

In summary, community engagement plays a significant role in determining a game’s indie status. When developers actively involve their community in the development process, it creates a mutually beneficial relationship that results in a more passionate and dedicated player base. In contrast, games with limited or no community engagement may lack the unique qualities that define indie games and their close-knit communities.

The Role of Industry Recognition

Independent Game Festival

The Independent Game Festival (IGF) is an annual event that recognizes and celebrates the best in independent game development. It was founded in 1998 by Steve Swink and others, and has since grown to become one of the most prestigious events in the gaming industry.

The IGF features a variety of categories for submission, including the Best Game, Best Student Game, Best Narrative, Best Audio, and more. The winners of each category are selected by a panel of judges who are experts in the gaming industry.

One of the key benefits of winning an IGF award is the recognition it can bring to an indie game developer. Winning an IGF award can solidify an indie game’s status as a legitimate contender in the industry, and can help it gain exposure and credibility among players, press, and other industry professionals.

Additionally, the IGF also provides a platform for indie game developers to showcase their work and connect with others in the industry. The festival features a variety of networking events, panel discussions, and other opportunities for developers to learn from one another and share their experiences.

Overall, the IGF plays a crucial role in the indie game development community by providing a platform for recognition, connection, and growth.

Other Industry Awards and Recognition

When examining the criteria for non-independent games, it is crucial to consider the role that industry recognition plays in determining a game’s classification. Other industry awards and recognition can significantly impact a game’s status as an indie game, and ongoing industry support can maintain indie status even as a game grows in popularity.

The Impact of Other Industry Awards and Recognition

While indie games are often recognized for their unique and innovative gameplay, art style, or narrative, non-indie games are typically recognized for their production values, technical prowess, and overall quality. The recognition that a game receives from industry events, such as the Game Awards or the DICE Awards, can significantly impact its classification as an indie game.

For example, if a game that was initially considered an indie game receives multiple nominations or wins at a major industry awards show, it may be reclassified as a non-indie game due to the recognition it has received from the industry. Conversely, if a game that was initially considered a non-indie game receives no industry recognition, it may be reclassified as an indie game due to its lack of industry support.

Ongoing Industry Support

Even as a game gains popularity and success, it can still maintain its indie status if it continues to receive ongoing industry support. This support can come in many forms, such as continued promotion by the industry, support from industry influencers, or even continued development by the original creators.

For example, games like Minecraft and Stardew Valley, which were initially released as indie games, have maintained their indie status despite their massive success. This is because they have continued to receive ongoing industry support and promotion, and their original creators have remained involved in the development process.

In conclusion, while the criteria for non-indie games are not as well-defined as those for indie games, industry recognition plays a significant role in determining a game’s classification. The impact of other industry awards and recognition, as well as ongoing industry support, can all play a role in determining whether a game is considered an indie game or not.

FAQs

1. What is considered an indie game?

An indie game is a game that is developed by a small team or an individual without the support of a large publisher. These games are often characterized by their unique and innovative gameplay, as well as their focus on creativity and artistic expression.

2. What are the criteria for a game to be considered non-indie?

A game can be considered non-indie if it meets any of the following criteria:
* It is developed by a large company or publisher.
* It has a budget of over a certain amount (e.g. $1 million).
* It is marketed and distributed by a large company or publisher.
* It has a large development team, with more than a few members.
* It follows a formulaic or generic gameplay style.

3. Are games developed by small teams but with support from a publisher considered indie?

No, games developed by small teams but with support from a publisher are not considered indie. Indie games are typically self-published or published by small independent companies, and are developed without the support of a large publisher.

4. Are indie games better than non-indie games?

No, the quality of a game is not determined by whether it is indie or non-indie. Both indie and non-indie games can be of high quality, and it is ultimately up to the player to decide which type of game they prefer.

5. Can a game be both indie and non-indie?

No, a game cannot be both indie and non-indie. A game is either developed by a small team or individual without the support of a large publisher, in which case it is considered indie, or it is developed by a large company or publisher, in which case it is considered non-indie.

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