Gaming News: Should You Hire Consultants for Game Development? Insights from IndieDev

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On the IndieDev subreddit, there was an engaging debate about whether it’s beneficial to hire consultants for game development. The discussion started with a post by user seyedhn asking, “Do you think it’s a good idea?” Although the original post didn’t provide any detailed arguments, it sparked numerous discussions on the topic. Indie developers weighed in, expressing their views about whether outside consultants aid in creating unique games or just reproduce existing ones. As anticipated, opinions were divided, with some advocating for a more imaginative and artistic approach while others endorsed a more organized, market-friendly mindset. This diversity of opinions highlighted broader themes related to game development philosophy, originality, and the ongoing struggle between creative vision and commercial success that is prevalent within the industry.

Summary

  • Some developers argue that consultants prioritize commercial success over originality, leading to derivative games.
  • Others advocate for a more artistic approach, suggesting that true creativity should not be guided by external experts.
  • Several comments pointed out the importance of both idea and execution, emphasizing that originality can be compromised during the execution phase.
  • The discussion also highlighted the struggle developers face in balancing creative freedom with the realities of market demands.

Originality Versus Commercial Success

The main discussion in the comments mirrored an age-old dilemma in video game creation: creativity versus marketability. User popiell started a unique argument by suggesting that employing numerous “dismantling experts” could transform a creative endeavor into a commercially-focused project. For popiell, artistic authenticity takes precedence over commercial feasibility, asserting, “I’d rather jump from a high place than let a LinkedIn personality dictate my methods.” This stance underscores the longing for creative autonomy that resonates with many independent game developers. In essence, if the game you create doesn’t embody your artistic vision, what’s the purpose?

Instead of some commenters, others appreciated the field of consultancy yet cautioned against blindly adopting successful titles. Lunarfuckingorbit specifically suggested developers to engage deeply with the genre they aim for rather than relying on external advice: “Skip hiring consultants, just play games from your target genre.” This statement seems to imply that hands-on experience from within the source material might offer a more authentic guide compared to suggestions given by someone working in an office environment.

The Role of Execution in Game Development

Throughout our conversation, the topic frequently returned to the importance of execution in bringing an innovative idea to life. Many participants agreed that even a brilliant idea can fail if its execution is lacking. User RockyMullet voiced a concern about certain games that merely copy others without offering anything new or valuable. They wisely pointed out, “If you simply try to replicate someone else’s work and cannot surpass their execution, you must delve deeper to discover your unique idea.” Essentially, they were saying that just having a fantastic idea isn’t enough; it needs to be transformed into an engaging experience. In simpler terms, no amount of advice or assistance can make a poor concept shine brighter; instead, the focus should be on refining and enhancing the originality of the idea.

In a unique and enlightening perspective, Dechichi shared their observations about past projects that didn’t succeed, emphasizing the observation that these failures often stemmed from the game being detached from real-world experiences. They cautioned that involving external consultants might widen this gap if they modify the original vision born from the developers’ genuine link to their work. This warning underscores the potential risk of letting external forces dilute an innate concept. As creators, developers need to strike a balance between inspiration, creativity, and preserving their authentic selves throughout the process.

Finding the Balance

The presentation highlights a common thread in independent game development – the pursuit of harmony. Numerous creators are perpetually juggling their personal artistic visions against the pressures of a market influenced by consumer preferences and pre-existing templates. User REDstone613 remarked, “It’s simple to find excuses for things not succeeding… the real skill is knowing HOW to discover the right solutions.” This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of growth and adaptation within the creative sector, where originality holds significant value.

Furthermore, Slarg232’s comment highlights the possibility of finding similarities with other successful formats, noting that the phrase “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” doesn’t always apply directly. They advise against blindly adopting identical mechanisms simply because games such as League of Legends or DOTA succeeded in their imitations. This viewpoint underscores the distinctiveness in game design and encourages developers to seek originality by finding inspiration in new settings rather than merely replicating popular mechanics.

In the initial discussion about whether or not to seek advice, numerous opinions underscore a broader belief that honesty is fundamental in game development. Developers frequently create games that strike a chord with their audience by first grasping their own vision and openly sharing it with the world. Dechichi’s viewpoint underscores the importance of feedback, suggesting that confronting reality in small doses can be the most effective method to ensure that expectations align with market realities before investing numerous years into a project that might not appeal to players.

In the lively realm of independent game development, creativity often blends with strategic planning. Game creators are persistently balancing novel ideas against established trends and market demands. Although the idea of employing consultants is a contentious issue, it’s apparent from discussions that passion, personal connection, and the quest for an authentic gaming experience have always been the driving forces in independent developers’ hearts. This unyielding enthusiasm has consistently expanded the horizons of creativity and innovation within the gaming industry, resulting in iconic experiences such as “Hollow Knight,” “Celeste,” and numerous others that have significantly reshaped the gaming world.

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2025-05-05 02:36