Hello, indie game developers! As a game publisher, we are always on the lookout for innovative, engaging, and memorable gaming experiences. We'd like to share some insights into how creating a buzz on social media can make your game stand out and attract our attention.
In today's gaming landscape, standing out is not an easy task. However, one element we pay close attention to is social media traction. When a game generates interest and conversation on platforms like Twitter, Reddit, Itch.io, and YouTube, it's a clear indication that it is resonating with players, sparking engagement and creating a loyal fan base.
This kind of buzz is incredibly attractive to us, as it often translates into a successful game with a dedicated player base. It signifies that the developers have created a compelling game and tapped into the pulse of the gaming community. The case of "Among Us" serves as a prime example. This indie game saw a remarkable rise in popularity when it gained traction on social media, signaling its potential to both publishers and players.
But, how do you create this buzz? Here are some easy-to-follow strategies and examples for each platform:
Twitter: Engagement is key on Twitter. Follow and interact with key players in the industry. Tweet regular updates about your game using relevant hashtags like #indiegame or #gamedev. Incorporate eye-catching visuals, GIFs, or short videos to make your tweets more engaging. Below is an example of what a tweet we did for a game we represent - Wandering Sword - which garnered almost 100K views and 1200 likes. The tweet showed the key characters wandering around a boar infested forest.
You can also consider interacting with Twitterers to ask them for their opinions on game design or animation choices. Gamers love to interact with game developers and sharing some behind-the-scenes content or sneak peeks into your development journey can create a storyline around the creation of your game that people can follow and support.
Reddit: Be an active member of related subreddits and engage in discussions. Share your progress, but also contribute to other posts. A post could be: "Finished the first level of my game. Would love to hear your feedback and tips for the upcoming levels". Remember, each subreddit has its rules, so avoid being overly promotional.
Itch.io: This is a great place to upload vertical slices and demos to nurture a fanbase. Update your game's page regularly and interact with your followers through the comments. A post could be: "New puzzles added to the third level! Try it out and let us know what you think!".
YouTube: Create a channel and post gameplay videos, developer diaries, or behind-the-scenes content. For example, a video could be titled: "Behind the Scenes: Creating the World of [Your Game]".
Tiktok: Similar to YouTube, but in a way it's a more forgiving, where you don't have to create and do massive editing. Use free tools like Capcut or Canva as they already have the Tiktok template for you to use. The magical thing about Tiktok is that if the algorithm works in your favor, you'll achieve virality. You just need that 1 viral post, and it just might be the next one that you are working on.
Remember, the key is consistency and genuine engagement. It might take time, but genuine interaction with the gaming community will gradually build a loyal audience and create a buzz around your game.
In conclusion, social media traction is a powerful indicator of a game's potential. We, at Spiral Up Games, are always attracted to games that manage to captivate their audience and create a conversation around them. So, indie developers, harness the power of social media and let your game shine - your game's success could be just a tweet, post, or video away!