If you want to make a game, you need money. Whether it's just money to support yourself alone as you develop a game, or money to found a studio, hire a team, and create the tech you need to make before you can even begin -- chances are you need to get your hands on some before you can even think about seriously starting a project.
Publishers used to be the most reliable source of funding, but new innovations in business and new ways of making games mean that there are many more choices for developers at all levels.
Crowdfunding. Grants. Angel investors. Incubators. Contests. Even waiting tables. All of these and more are ways developers are now getting the money they need to make their games.
But how do you decide what kind of funding you need?
You talk to other developers in your situation.
We want to hear your stories. Next week, Gamasutra is launching a week-long series on alternative funding methods. And a big part of that will be your words. Do you have a story to tell -- one which can help other developers? If so, we want to see it on Gamasutra's blogs.
You can submit your stories
directly to Gamasutra's blog section. Not sure what to write? Need to brainstorm? Just
email blog director Christian Nutt and he'll help you with any questions.