How to Build a Huge Following on Kickstarter and Get Your Game Funded

funding

Mar 6

Launching a game on Kickstarter is an exciting opportunity, but success requires more than just a great idea. With thousands of projects competing for attention, game developers must strategically build a dedicated following before their campaign even launches. Here’s how to create momentum and maximize your chances of getting funded.

1. Start Building Your Community Early

Your Kickstarter success is largely determined before your campaign even goes live. The more people you have eagerly waiting to back your project, the stronger your launch will be. Start growing your audience months in advance through these channels:

Social Media Engagement: Establish a presence on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. Share development updates, behind-the-scenes content, and teasers.
Reddit and Forums: Participate in relevant gaming communities like r/gamedev, r/boardgames, and r/IndieDev.
Discord & Facebook Groups: Create a community around your game where fans can discuss and share their excitement.
YouTube & Twitch: Streaming game development, playtesting, or interacting with the gaming community helps establish trust and credibility.

2. Create a Pre-Launch Landing Page

Capture emails before your campaign starts by creating a pre-launch landing page. Platforms like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or even a simple website with a signup form can work wonders. Offer an exclusive reward, such as early access or a free digital goodie, to incentivize signups.

Kickstarter itself provides a pre-launch page where people can follow your project before it goes live. The more followers you have, the more likely they are to convert into backers.

3. Develop a Strong Brand and Story

People back projects they believe in. Your game needs a compelling story and a strong brand identity.

Have a clear mission statement: Why are you making this game? Why should people care?
Create a stunning visual identity: A professionally designed logo, engaging concept art, and polished branding make your game stand out.
Tell an emotional story: Games that connect on a personal level—whether through nostalgia, innovation, or passion—gain more traction.

4. Use Influencers & Press to Build Hype

Game journalists, influencers, and content creators can dramatically boost your visibility.

Reach out to YouTubers & Streamers: Offer early access builds or exclusive previews.
Get featured in gaming news sites: Websites like Kotaku, Rock Paper Shotgun, and Polygon cover exciting Kickstarter projects.
Collaborate with other indie developers: Cross-promoting with other game devs can introduce you to a wider audience.

5. Leverage Paid Ads & Promotions

A small advertising budget can go a long way in attracting early backers. Consider running targeted Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads to reach potential supporters. Retargeting ads (which remind visitors to return to your Kickstarter page) can be highly effective.

6. Optimize Your Kickstarter Page

Your campaign page needs to be visually appealing and informative. Here’s how:

Make a captivating video: Kickstarter campaigns with videos are far more successful.
Use compelling visuals: Include high-quality GIFs, screenshots, and concept art.
Write clear reward tiers: Backers should immediately understand what they’re getting.
Set realistic funding goals: Unrealistic goals can deter backers, while stretch goals can keep momentum going.

7. Engage With Your Audience Constantly

Your job doesn’t end once the campaign starts! Actively engage with backers through:

Regular updates: Post progress reports, stretch goal announcements, and community shout-outs.
Responding to comments: Make backers feel valued by answering questions and acknowledging their support.
Exclusive backer content: Reward your supporters with behind-the-scenes looks, development insights, and polls.

8. Launch Strong and Keep Momentum Going

The first 48 hours are crucial. A strong start builds credibility and attracts organic traffic from Kickstarter’s algorithm. To ensure momentum:

Encourage your early fans to pledge immediately.
Host a live Q&A session or launch event.
Leverage “day-one” discounts or special rewards to drive urgency.

Final Thoughts

Building a massive following on Kickstarter takes effort, but the payoff is worth it. By starting early, engaging your community, and using smart marketing strategies, you can turn your game into a fully funded reality. The key is persistence—keep showing up, keep sharing, and keep believing in your game!