How to Set Realistic Crowdfunding Goals for Game Development

12 June 2025

Okay, let’s face it—creating a game is no small feat. Whether you're building an indie passion project or the next big hit, game development takes time, effort, and let’s not forget...money. Crowdfunding has become a go-to solution for game developers, big and small, to raise the funds they need to bring their ideas to life. But here’s the catch: setting the right crowdfunding goal can make or break your campaign.

Aim too high? You might scare off potential backers. Set it too low? You could run out of funds halfway through development. Nobody wants to be stuck in that awkward limbo where you’re forced to explain why the game isn’t done yet. So, how can you set realistic crowdfunding goals that actually work? Let’s break it down step by step.

Why Setting Realistic Goals Matters

Imagine this: You’re at a carnival, about to play one of those ring toss games. You spot the jackpot prize—a giant stuffed bear—but the rings are tiny, and the poles are far away. That’s how potential backers feel when they see an unrealistic funding goal. They think, “There’s no way this campaign will succeed. Why bother backing it?”

A realistic goal, on the other hand, builds confidence. It tells your audience that you’ve done your homework and you’re serious about making the game happen. It also makes it easier for you to plan and deliver on your promises. And let’s not forget—hitting your goal early creates momentum, which can push your campaign even further.

How to Start: Break It All Down

Before you pull a random number out of thin air, you’ve got to do the math (don’t worry, you don’t need to be a calculus wizard for this). Here’s a step-by-step way to figure out what your goal should be.

1. Know Your Costs Like the Back of Your Hand

The first step in setting your crowdfunding goal is understanding how much your game will actually cost to make. This includes:

- Development Costs: Think salaries for your team, software licenses, or freelance contractors. If it’s just you, factor in how much you need to survive during development.
- Design and Art: That pixel art or 3D modeling isn’t going to create itself. If you’re outsourcing, get quotes in advance.
- Music and Sound: Whether you’re composing tracks yourself or hiring an audio wizard, don’t forget this crucial piece of the puzzle.
- Marketing Expenses: You can’t just sit back and hope people discover your campaign. Consider costs for social media ads, press kits, or even a promotional video.
- Rewards Fulfillment: If you’re offering backer rewards, account for materials, shipping fees, and any hidden charges. (Pro tip: Shipping costs can be a sneaky budget-buster!)
- Platform Fees: Most crowdfunding platforms take a cut—somewhere between 5-10%. Add this into the mix.

Add everything up, and don’t forget to leave a little wiggle room for unexpected expenses. Trust me, they will happen.

2. Set a Realistic Timeline

Time is money, right? That saying couldn’t be more true when it comes to crowdfunding. The longer your project takes, the more it’ll cost you. Be honest about how much time you’ll need. If you’re thinking, “Oh, we’ll get it done in six months,” double-check your estimates. Game development almost always takes longer than you expect.

By setting a timeline and matching it with your budget, you’ll get a clearer picture of how much funding you actually need.

3. Think About Your Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

Now, let’s talk strategy. Your crowdfunding campaign doesn’t need to fund the entire game right away. Sometimes, backers are willing to invest in a shorter demo, proof of concept, or an early-access version. This approach allows you to set a lower funding goal and gives you the opportunity to seek additional funding later (via post-launch sales, grants, or even stretch goals).

The MVP approach not only lowers the stakes but also gives you a chance to prove to your audience that you can deliver.

Balancing Realism with Ambition

Alright, you’ve done the math, considered your timeline, and planned out your MVP. But here’s where things get tricky: How do you balance being realistic with being ambitious enough to excite your backers? Nobody gets thrilled about funding the bare minimum. You need your campaign to inspire people.

1. Show Them the Dream

Your campaign isn’t just about numbers; it’s about vision. Use your pitch to paint a picture of what the game could be. Include concept art, gameplay footage (even if it’s early-stage), and snippets that show off your creativity. Make your audience believe they’re investing in something extraordinary.

2. Be Transparent

Backers aren’t ATMs—they’re real people. They want to know where their money is going. Break down your budget in your campaign description. You don’t need to get into the nitty-gritty, but showing that you’ve planned things out builds trust.

For example, you could say something like:
- 40% of funds will go to development
- 30% to art and design
- 20% to marketing
- 10% to fees and fulfillment

This clarity can make all the difference.

Tips for Crushing Your Crowdfunding Goal

Once you’ve set your crowdfunding goal, how do you actually hit it? Here are a few tips to maximize your chances of success:

1. Build Hype Before You Launch

Don’t launch your campaign in the dark! Start teasing your game months in advance. Use social media, forums, and gaming communities to build an audience that’s already excited about your project.

2. Make a Killer Campaign Video

People are more likely to back something when they can see it in action. Your campaign video should be short, sweet, and high-quality. Introduce yourself, explain your game, and tell people why their support matters. And hey, don’t forget some killer gameplay footage (if you have it).

3. Incentivize Backers with Great Rewards

Great rewards can make people reach for their wallets faster than you can say, “Kickstarter!” Think beyond just a digital copy of the game. Offer behind-the-scenes content, exclusive in-game items, or even physical collectibles. And yes, a handwritten thank-you note still goes a long way.

4. Engage with Your Backers

Backers want to feel like they’re part of something, not just handing over cash. Keep them updated with progress reports, respond to their comments, and take their feedback seriously. They’re not just funding your game—they’re becoming part of your journey.

Avoiding Common Crowdfunding Pitfalls

Even the best plans can go off the rails. Let’s look at some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Overpromising and Underdelivering

It’s tempting to promise the moon to get funded, but overpromising is a fast track to angry backers. Be honest about what you can deliver, and don’t stretch your budget too thin.

2. Ignoring Marketing

Some people think, “If I put my campaign on Kickstarter, people will magically find it.” Spoiler alert: They won’t. Marketing is half the battle, so don’t skimp on it.

3. Forgetting About Taxes and Legal Stuff

Yep, crowdfunding income is taxable. Make sure you consult with an accountant to avoid nasty surprises down the line. Nobody wants to deal with the IRS after launching the game of their dreams.

Wrapping It All Up

Crowdfunding your game isn’t just about slapping a number on your campaign and hoping for the best. It’s a delicate balancing act between ambition and practicality, creativity, and business sense. By doing your homework, building a strong pitch, and engaging with your audience, you can set a crowdfunding goal that’s both realistic and achievable. And who knows? You might even smash through that goal and bring your dream game to life.

So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get to work. The gaming world is waiting for your masterpiece.