The Best Publishers for Indie Game Developers Seeking Funding
Indie game development is an exciting but challenging venture. While the freedom to create without corporate oversight is appealing, securing funding can be a significant hurdle. Fortunately, numerous publishers specialize in supporting indie developers by providing funding, marketing, and distribution resources. Here’s a look at some of the best publishers indie developers should consider when seeking financial support for their games.
1. Devolver Digital
Devolver Digital is one of the most well-known indie game publishers, recognized for its support of innovative and unique games. They have published successful titles like Enter the Gungeon, Loop Hero, and Katana ZERO. Devolver typically funds promising projects, providing developers with creative freedom while handling marketing and distribution.
Why Choose Devolver Digital?
Strong focus on unique and unconventional games
Proven track record with indie hits
Hands-off approach, allowing developers creative control
2. Annapurna Interactive
Annapurna Interactive is another highly respected indie game publisher known for supporting artistic and story-driven games. They have backed critically acclaimed titles such as Outer Wilds, What Remains of Edith Finch, and Stray.
Why Choose Annapurna Interactive?
Focus on narrative-driven and visually stunning games
Strong marketing and distribution support
High industry recognition and credibility
3. Raw Fury
Raw Fury is a publisher that prides itself on developer-friendly agreements and a deep passion for indie games. They have published games like Kingdom: Two Crowns, Sable, and Call of the Sea.
Why Choose Raw Fury?
Flexible funding options with fair revenue splits
Hands-on support with marketing and production
Developer-focused mindset, prioritizing creative freedom
4. Team17
Team17 is both a developer and publisher, famous for games like Worms and Overcooked!. They actively seek promising indie games and provide funding, development assistance, and marketing support.
Why Choose Team17?
Extensive industry experience and resources
Strong marketing and PR support
Focus on co-op, strategy, and simulation games
5. Humble Games
Humble Games, part of the Humble Bundle brand, helps indie developers bring their games to a broad audience. They have published games like A Hat in Time, Slay the Spire, and Unpacking.
Why Choose Humble Games?
Offers funding along with strong distribution channels
Community-driven approach with a charitable aspect
Access to Humble Bundle’s massive audience
6. Versus Evil
Versus Evil is known for publishing indie games across various genres, including RPGs, strategy, and adventure games. Titles under their banner include The Banner Saga series and Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire.
Why Choose Versus Evil?
Focus on high-quality indie games across multiple genres
Provides marketing, PR, and QA support
Works with both small and mid-sized indie studios
7. No More Robots
No More Robots is a UK-based publisher specializing in data-driven game publishing. They’ve released successful titles like Descenders, Hypnospace Outlaw, and Not Tonight.
Why Choose No More Robots?
Data-focused approach to game publishing and marketing
Strong support with community building and player engagement
Open to experimental and niche game ideas
Choosing the Right Publisher
Selecting the right publisher depends on your game’s genre, vision, and funding requirements. Here are some key factors to consider:
Creative Freedom – Does the publisher allow you to retain control over your project?
Funding Model – Do they offer upfront funding, revenue sharing, or milestone-based payments?
Marketing and PR Support – Will they help promote your game effectively?
Publishing Experience – Have they successfully launched games similar to yours?