Embarking on the journey of creating an indie game or establishing a studio is an adventure filled with excitement, innovation, and challenges. In a landscape where every game and studio tells a unique story, standing out and staying true to your vision requires not just creativity, but also resilience, passion, and a cohesive team dynamic.
Whether you're a seasoned developer or a newcomer to the gaming industry, the path to realizing your dream project is fraught with obstacles that test your resolve and dedication. Yet, it's this very journey that shapes the most memorable and impactful games, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of players worldwide.
Harvey Newman is the founder of Proxima Studio, and currently creating Warship Jolly Roger. Harvey sat down with us to share the essence of his experiences and the lessons learned over more than two and a half years of navigating the indie game development scene. From the importance of resilience in the face of skepticism, to fostering a team that feels more like a family, and the critical role of passion over profit, he delivered some quality and actionable advice for aspiring creators.
Dive into the full interview with Harvey now, or read our summary below. Then, check out our Case Study on how the Proxima Studio team is creating AAA quality games as an indie studio.
Resilience and Passion: The Cornerstones of Indie Development
The foremost attribute you'll need is resilience. The journey of creating your own game or studio is fraught with skepticism and discouragement from external sources, such as investors and publishers. They might question the viability of your project or compare it unfavorably with existing games. The vision of your game, however, is something only you can fully comprehend until it materializes. Maintaining resilience in the face of these challenges, driven by a passion for your work rather than monetary gain, is crucial. The current state of the industry might not be overwhelmingly lucrative, but passion fuels perseverance through the inherent challenges of studio and game creation.
Building a Cohesive Team: Beyond Skills
Equally critical is assembling the right team. The conventional approach of filling predefined roles falls short; it's about finding individuals who resonate with the studio's vision and culture—akin to choosing family members or friends. This alignment is more valuable than merely ticking off skill sets on a checklist. A harmonious team dynamic fosters creativity and productivity, significantly impacting the studio's success and product quality.
Respect and Inclusion: Key to a Positive Work Environment
Treating team members with respect and valuing their contributions is fundamental. This ethos not only enhances morale but also encourages a collaborative environment where ideas can flourish. By sharing successes and challenges openly and inviting input from all team members, regardless of their experience level, you create a culture of ownership and commitment to the project. This inclusive approach ensures a richer, more diverse set of ideas, contributing to a superior final product.
Self-Sufficiency and Momentum
Operating as though you are already funded can instill discipline and forward momentum. This mindset prepares you for the eventualities of formal funding and investor relations while ensuring continuous progress. The illusion of unlimited time can hinder development; setting internal milestones and goals keeps the project on track and appealing to potential investors.
Investment in Your Vision
Investing in your own company, whether through tools, licenses, or other resources, signifies commitment and confidence in the project. This investment is not solely financial but also reflects a dedication to solving problems and improving the company's foundation, making it more attractive to external investors.
Innovation and Creativity: The Future of Indie Gaming
Lastly, thinking outside the box is imperative. The indie gaming sector has the potential to redefine industry standards and player expectations. Reflecting on the diverse and engaging nature of earlier game generations, indie developers are poised to lead the charge in innovation, focusing on creative game mechanics and storytelling to captivate audiences.
Embarking on the journey of indie game development or studio founding is a testament to one's courage, creativity, and determination. By embracing resilience, fostering a supportive and talented team, treating everyone with respect, maintaining a self-sufficient mindset, investing in your vision, and innovating beyond conventional boundaries, you can navigate the complexities of the industry and leave a lasting impact.
Read more about Warship Jolly Roger and Proxima Studio
We recently published our first case study with Harvey and his team at Proxima Studio. "After decades in the AAA space, I found myself yearning for the freedom to explore stories that were daring, diverse, and deeply personal," Harvey said. Read our full article on our website, and make sure to add the game to your wishlist on Steam! 
