Where to Find Top Game Developers for Your Next Project

If you’re looking to build the next hit game, finding the right developers is key. With a plethora of options available, where do you even start? Fear not, we’ve got you covered. From online job boards to gaming conventions, this article will guide you through the best places to find top game developers for your next project. Whether you’re looking for a solo developer or a full development team, we’ll explore the best strategies to help you find the perfect match for your vision. So, gear up and let’s dive into the world of game development!

What Makes a Great Game Developer?

Essential Skills and Traits

Creating a successful game requires a unique blend of technical expertise, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. When searching for top game developers for your next project, consider the following essential skills and traits:

Technical Expertise

1. Proficiency in programming languages: Game developers should have a strong foundation in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python, as well as experience with game development engines like Unity or Unreal Engine.
2. Understanding of game development frameworks: Familiarity with game development frameworks like Box2D, SceneKit, or SpriteKit is crucial for creating smooth gameplay and responsive interactions.
3. Knowledge of asset pipelines: Developers should be well-versed in managing asset pipelines, including 2D and 3D art, animations, and sound effects, to ensure seamless integration within the game.

Creativity and Innovation

1. Imaginative game design: Great game developers possess a rich imagination, allowing them to conceptualize engaging and innovative gameplay mechanics, levels, and narratives.
2. Artistic skills: Strong artistic skills are essential for creating visually appealing and cohesive game worlds, characters, and environments.
3. Adaptability: Game developers should be able to pivot quickly and adapt to new ideas or changing project requirements, ensuring that the game remains fresh and exciting.

Problem-Solving and Collaboration

1. Critical thinking: Top game developers possess excellent problem-solving skills, enabling them to troubleshoot technical issues, optimize game performance, and improve player experience.
2. Communication and collaboration: Game development is a highly collaborative process, so developers should be adept at communicating their ideas, providing and receiving feedback, and working effectively within a team.
3. Time management and prioritization: Developers should be skilled at managing their time and prioritizing tasks to meet project deadlines while maintaining a high level of quality and attention to detail.

By considering these essential skills and traits, you can identify the top game developers who will contribute to the success of your next project.

Top Tools and Technologies

In the fast-paced world of game development, it’s essential to have the right tools and technologies to stay ahead of the competition. A great game developer should be well-versed in the latest game development software and tools, including:

• Unity: Unity is a popular game engine that supports both 2D and 3D game development. It has a large community of developers, extensive documentation, and a range of tools that make it easy to create engaging games.
• Unreal Engine: Unreal Engine is another popular game engine that is widely used for creating high-quality 3D games. It has a robust set of features, including a visual scripting system, that make it easy to create complex game mechanics.
• C#: C# is a programming language that is widely used in game development. It has a simple syntax and is easy to learn, making it a great choice for developers who are new to programming.
• Python: Python is a versatile programming language that is widely used in game development for tasks such as scripting and data analysis. It has a large community of developers and extensive libraries that make it easy to create complex game mechanics.
• Maya: Maya is a 3D animation software that is widely used in game development for creating models, animations, and visual effects. It has a range of tools that make it easy to create realistic characters and environments.
• Photoshop: Photoshop is a popular image editing software that is widely used in game development for creating textures, sprites, and other game assets. It has a range of tools that make it easy to create high-quality images.

In addition to these tools and technologies, a great game developer should also have a passion for gaming and a desire to create engaging experiences for players. By staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in game development, a great game developer can create games that are both entertaining and technically sound.

Portfolio and Reputation

A great game developer should have a strong portfolio that showcases their skills and experience in the industry. This portfolio should include a variety of projects that demonstrate their proficiency in different areas of game development, such as programming, design, and art. It’s important to review a developer’s past work to get a sense of their style and the types of games they specialize in.

In addition to a strong portfolio, a great game developer should also have a positive reputation within the industry. This can be determined by researching the developer’s previous clients and partners, as well as any awards or recognition they may have received. It’s also important to consider the developer’s reputation among their peers, as this can be a good indicator of their work ethic and dedication to their craft.

Overall, a combination of a strong portfolio and a positive reputation is essential when looking for top game developers for your next project. By carefully evaluating a developer’s past work and reputation, you can ensure that you’re working with a team that has the skills and experience necessary to deliver a high-quality game.

Industry Events and Conferences

GDC (Game Developers Conference)

The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is one of the most renowned events in the gaming industry. It is an annual gathering of game developers, publishers, and other industry professionals. The conference offers a platform for networking, learning, and showcasing the latest trends and technologies in game development.

The GDC is a five-day event that takes place in San Francisco, California. It features a wide range of presentations, panels, and workshops covering various aspects of game development, including programming, art, design, and business. Attendees can also explore the GDC Expo, where they can meet with game development tools and services providers, and see the latest technology and hardware demos.

In addition to the main conference, the GDC also includes several specialized events, such as the Independent Games Festival (IGF), which showcases the best in indie game development, and the Game Developers Choice Awards, which honor the top games and developers of the year.

Attending the GDC is an excellent opportunity to meet and network with some of the top game developers in the industry. It is also a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in game development, and to discover new and innovative ideas that can help drive your next project forward.

Other Relevant Conferences

In addition to gaming conferences, there are several other relevant events and conferences that can help you find top game developers for your project. These events often attract professionals from various industries, including technology, design, and art, making them ideal for sourcing talent for your game development project. Some of these conferences include:

1. SXSW: South by Southwest (SXSW) is an annual festival that showcases film, interactive media, and music. The interactive media section features presentations, panel discussions, and exhibitions related to the latest technologies and trends in the industry. While not exclusively focused on game development, SXSW can be a valuable source for discovering innovative ideas and talented individuals.
2. GDC: The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is the premier event for the game development community. It offers a wide range of lectures, roundtables, and workshops on various aspects of game development, including programming, design, art, and audio. While primarily focused on game development professionals, GDC can also be a great place to meet and network with potential collaborators for your project.
3. CTF: Codeforces is a platform that hosts competitive programming contests, which can be an excellent way to identify talented programmers and developers with a passion for coding. By participating in these contests or sponsoring them, you can identify skilled individuals who may be interested in working on your game development project.
4. Tech Conferences: Various tech conferences are held throughout the year, covering a wide range of topics related to technology, software development, and innovation. These events often attract professionals from the gaming industry, making them an excellent opportunity to meet potential collaborators or find top talent for your project.
5. Local Meetups and Communities: Local meetups and communities, such as game development groups or programming clubs, can be an excellent source for finding skilled developers and artists. These events often feature presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with like-minded professionals in your area.

Networking and Building Relationships

One of the most effective ways to find top game developers for your next project is by attending industry events and conferences. These events provide a platform for networking and building relationships with potential candidates. Here are some tips on how to make the most of these opportunities:

1. Attend Relevant Conferences: Look for conferences that are specific to the game development industry. These events are usually attended by professionals who are passionate about gaming and have a deep understanding of the latest trends and technologies.
2. Identify Key Players: Before attending the conference, research the attendee list and identify the key players you want to meet. This could include game developers, publishers, investors, and other industry professionals.
3. Prepare Elevator Pitch: Prepare a short and compelling elevator pitch about your project. This will help you quickly engage potential candidates and capture their interest.
4. Be Approachable: Dress appropriately and be approachable. Remember that many people attend these events to network, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone new.
5. Follow Up: After the conference, follow up with the people you met. Send them a thank-you email and continue the conversation. This will help you build a relationship with potential candidates and keep them interested in your project.

By attending industry events and conferences and following these networking tips, you can increase your chances of finding top game developers for your next project.

Online Platforms and Communities

Game Development Forums

• Game development forums are online communities where game developers, enthusiasts, and professionals gather to discuss various aspects of game development. These forums offer a wealth of information and resources for those looking to hire top game developers for their projects.
• Some popular game development forums include:
  • r/gamedev on Reddit: This is a vibrant community of game developers and enthusiasts who share their knowledge and experience. It’s a great place to find potential candidates for your project and get valuable feedback on your ideas.
  • TIGSource: This is a community of indie game developers who share their work, resources, and advice. It’s a great place to find talented developers working on innovative projects.
  • GameDev.net: This is a long-standing forum for game developers with a wide range of topics and discussions. It’s a valuable resource for finding developers with specific skills or experience.
• When using game development forums to find top game developers, it’s important to:
  • Be clear about your project’s requirements and timeline.
  • Provide detailed information about the role and expectations for the developer.
  • Offer competitive compensation and benefits.
  • Be prepared to answer questions and address concerns from potential candidates.
  • Follow up with interested candidates in a timely manner.

By using game development forums, you can tap into a pool of talented developers who are passionate about the industry and committed to creating high-quality games. With careful screening and selection, you can find the right developer for your project and take your game to the next level.

Freelance Marketplaces

Freelance marketplaces are online platforms that connect businesses and individuals with freelancers offering their services. These marketplaces are a great way to find top game developers for your next project. Here are some popular freelance marketplaces to consider:

Upwork

Upwork is a well-known freelance marketplace that connects businesses with freelancers from all over the world. The platform offers a wide range of services, including game development. Upwork’s search functionality allows you to filter results based on skills, experience, and hourly rates.

Freelancer

Freelancer is another popular freelance marketplace that connects businesses with freelancers. The platform offers a range of services, including game development. Freelancer’s search functionality allows you to filter results based on skills, experience, and hourly rates.

Toptal

Toptal is a freelance marketplace that specializes in connecting businesses with top freelancers in various fields, including game development. Toptal’s vetting process is rigorous, ensuring that only the best freelancers are accepted onto the platform.

PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is a freelance marketplace that connects businesses with freelancers from all over the world. The platform offers a range of services, including game development. PeoplePerHour’s search functionality allows you to filter results based on skills, experience, and hourly rates.

Overall, freelance marketplaces are a great way to find top game developers for your next project. These platforms offer a wide range of services, including game development, and allow you to filter results based on skills, experience, and hourly rates.

Social Media and Professional Networks

• Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook are great places to find and connect with game developers.
• You can search for game developers using relevant keywords and hashtags, and then reach out to them via direct message or email.
• LinkedIn, in particular, is a useful platform for finding experienced and professional game developers, as it allows you to search for people based on their skills and experience.
• Professional networks like Toptal, Upwork, and Freelancer are also good places to find game developers, as they have a pool of pre-vetted and experienced professionals.
• You can post a job listing on these platforms and receive applications from interested developers, or you can browse through their portfolios and reach out to those who have experience in the type of game you are looking to develop.
• Another way to find top game developers is to attend gaming industry events and conferences, where you can network with professionals and see their work in action.

Recruitment Agencies and Staffing Services

Specialized Game Development Recruiters

Specialized game development recruiters are professionals who focus on sourcing and placing top talent within the gaming industry. They have an in-depth understanding of the specific skills and experience required for game development roles, and can help you find the best candidates for your project.

Here are some benefits of working with specialized game development recruiters:

• Industry expertise: Specialized recruiters have a deep understanding of the gaming industry, including the latest trends and technologies. They can help you identify the skills and experience required for your project, and ensure that you find candidates who are well-suited to the role.
• Access to top talent: Specialized recruiters have access to a wide network of game development professionals, including those who may not be actively seeking new opportunities. They can help you find the best candidates for your project, even if they are currently employed.
• Streamlined recruitment process: Specialized recruiters can handle all aspects of the recruitment process, from sourcing candidates to conducting interviews and negotiating offers. This can save you time and effort, and ensure that you find the best candidates for your project.
• Reduced risk: By working with a specialized recruiter, you can reduce the risk of hiring the wrong candidate. They can help you assess candidates’ skills and experience, and ensure that they are a good fit for your project.

When working with specialized game development recruiters, it’s important to be clear about your project requirements and timeline. This will help them to identify the best candidates for your project, and ensure that the recruitment process runs smoothly.

Traditional Staffing Agencies

Traditional staffing agencies have been a go-to resource for many companies when it comes to finding top talent. These agencies have a vast network of professionals with varying skill sets and experience levels. They act as a middleman between the employer and the job seeker, matching the right candidate with the right job.

Traditional staffing agencies work by receiving job requirements from the employer and then searching their database or actively recruiting candidates that match the job description. They typically conduct interviews and may even provide temporary or contract employees to the company until a permanent hire is made.

One of the advantages of using traditional staffing agencies is that they have an established process for vetting candidates. They conduct background checks, reference checks, and assess the candidate’s skills and experience to ensure they are a good fit for the job. This saves the employer time and resources in the hiring process.

However, traditional staffing agencies may not specialize in the gaming industry, which means they may not have a deep understanding of the specific skills and experience required for game development roles. It is important to ensure that the agency has experience in placing candidates in similar roles and has a good understanding of the gaming industry.

Additionally, traditional staffing agencies may charge a fee for their services, which can be a drawback for some employers. The fee may be a percentage of the candidate’s salary or a flat fee per placement. It is important to understand the fees upfront and ensure they are within the budget for the hiring process.

Overall, traditional staffing agencies can be a valuable resource for finding top game developers for your next project. However, it is important to do your research and ensure that the agency has experience in the gaming industry and fits within your budget.

Tips for Effective Recruitment

Recruitment agencies and staffing services are valuable resources for finding top game developers for your next project. Here are some tips for effective recruitment:

1. Clearly Define Your Requirements: To find the right candidate, you need to clearly define your requirements. What skills, experience, and qualifications are essential for the role? Make a list of the must-haves and the nice-to-haves to help you identify the best candidates.
2. Use Specific Job Descriptions: Use specific job descriptions that highlight the required skills, experience, and qualifications. This will help you attract the right candidates and filter out those who don’t meet your requirements.
3. Leverage Social Media: Social media is a powerful tool for recruitment. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to reach out to potential candidates. You can also use paid social media advertising to target specific audiences.
4. Attend Industry Events: Attend industry events and conferences to network with potential candidates. This is an excellent opportunity to meet game developers in person and learn about their skills and experience.
5. Utilize Referrals: Ask for referrals from your network of contacts. Personal recommendations can be a valuable source of top talent. Offer a referral bonus to incentivize your network to introduce you to the best candidates.
6. Evaluate Candidates Carefully: Once you have received applications, evaluate candidates carefully. Look for evidence of their skills, experience, and qualifications. You can also ask for samples of their work or conduct technical interviews to assess their abilities.
7. Offer Competitive Salary and Benefits: Top game developers are in high demand, so you need to offer competitive salary and benefits to attract the best talent. Consider offering flexible working hours, remote work options, and other perks that can help you stand out from other employers.

By following these tips, you can effectively recruit top game developers for your next project.

In-House Talent Acquisition

Training and Upskilling

One way to ensure a steady stream of top game developers for your project is to invest in training and upskilling your existing employees. By offering opportunities for growth and development, you can attract and retain the best talent, while also fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Here are some ways to approach training and upskilling for game development:

Encourage Informal Learning

Informal learning, such as peer-to-peer knowledge sharing and self-directed learning, can be an effective way to help developers learn new skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends. You can facilitate this by providing access to online resources, hosting hackathons or workshops, and encouraging team members to share their expertise with one another.

Provide Formal Training Opportunities

Formal training opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and online courses, can help developers learn new skills and technologies. You can offer tuition reimbursement or other incentives to encourage employees to pursue these opportunities.

Set Up Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs can be a valuable way to help developers learn from more experienced colleagues and gain insights into different aspects of game development. You can pair junior developers with more senior team members, or connect developers with external mentors who can provide specialized knowledge and guidance.

Foster a Culture of Continuous Learning

To truly build a culture of continuous learning, it’s important to make training and upskilling a core part of your company’s values and mission. This means creating a supportive environment where employees feel empowered to pursue new learning opportunities, and where their efforts are recognized and rewarded. By prioritizing training and upskilling, you can attract and retain top game developers, while also ensuring that your team is equipped to tackle the most challenging projects.

Promoting from Within

Promoting from within is a great way to identify and develop top game developers for your next project. By identifying talented employees within your organization, you can leverage their existing knowledge of your company culture and processes to ensure a smoother onboarding process. Additionally, promoting from within demonstrates to your employees that there are opportunities for growth and development within the company, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and retention.

To identify top game developers within your organization, consider looking for employees who have:

• Demonstrated a strong interest in gaming and game development
• Participated in hackathons or game jams
• Taken on additional responsibilities or leadership roles within their team
• Received positive feedback from colleagues or supervisors for their technical skills or creativity

Once you have identified potential candidates, consider providing them with opportunities to develop their skills further through training, mentorship, or by assigning them to work on smaller projects with support from more experienced team members. By investing in the growth and development of your employees, you can build a strong team of top game developers that will help ensure the success of your next project.

Building a Strong Company Culture

To attract top game developers, it is essential to build a strong company culture that reflects your values and vision. A positive work environment can make a significant difference in retaining talented professionals and fostering innovation. Here are some ways to create a thriving company culture:

• Empower Employees: Give your employees the autonomy to make decisions and contribute to the development process. Encourage collaboration and open communication, which can help create a sense of ownership and accountability.
• Foster a Positive Work-Life Balance: Offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours, to help employees achieve a healthy work-life balance. This can help reduce burnout and increase job satisfaction.
• Invest in Professional Development: Provide opportunities for your team members to learn and grow professionally. This can include attending conferences, workshops, or online courses, and offering mentorship programs.
• Recognize and Reward Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of your team members, both individually and collectively. This can help boost morale and motivate your team to continue delivering high-quality work.
• Create a Culture of Innovation: Encourage experimentation and risk-taking by providing a safe space for your team members to test new ideas. This can help drive creativity and push the boundaries of what is possible in game development.
• Build a Strong Company Identity: Develop a unique company culture that reflects your brand values and resonates with your team members. This can include creating a strong mission statement, defining your company’s vision, and promoting a positive company culture through social media and other marketing channels.

By focusing on these aspects, you can create a company culture that attracts and retains top game developers, fosters innovation, and contributes to the success of your projects.

Final Thoughts

Balancing Internal and External Hiring

When it comes to hiring game developers for your next project, there are two main options: internal hiring and external hiring. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, and the best approach will depend on your specific needs and goals.

Internal Hiring

Internal hiring involves recruiting and hiring game developers from within your own company. This approach has several advantages, including:

• Familiarity with company culture: Internal hires are already familiar with your company’s culture and values, which can make for a smoother transition and reduce the risk of culture clash.
• Easier integration: Internal hires are more likely to be integrated into your existing team, which can help foster a sense of collaboration and teamwork.
• Lower recruitment costs: Since you’re not hiring from outside the company, you won’t need to spend as much on recruitment costs.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider:

• Limited pool of candidates: If you’re only hiring from within your own company, you may be limiting the pool of candidates available to you.
• Potential conflicts of interest: Internal hires may have existing relationships with other employees or clients, which could create conflicts of interest.
• Lack of fresh perspectives: Hiring from within can lead to a lack of fresh perspectives and new ideas.

External Hiring

External hiring involves recruiting and hiring game developers from outside your company. This approach has several advantages, including:

• Access to a wider pool of candidates: By hiring from outside your company, you’ll have access to a wider pool of candidates with a wider range of skills and experiences.
• Fresh perspectives: External hires can bring fresh perspectives and new ideas to your team, which can help drive innovation and creativity.

• Reduced risk of conflicts of interest: Since external hires don’t have existing relationships with other employees or clients, there’s less risk of conflicts of interest.

• Higher recruitment costs: Since you’re hiring from outside the company, you’ll need to spend more on recruitment costs.

• Potential culture clash: External hires may not be as familiar with your company culture and values, which could lead to a culture clash.
• Longer integration period: External hires may take longer to integrate into your existing team.

Ultimately, the best approach will depend on your specific needs and goals. Consider factors such as the size of your team, the type of project you’re working on, and the skills and experience you need in your game developers. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each approach, you can make an informed decision that will help ensure the success of your next project.

Future Trends in Game Development Talent Acquisition

The gaming industry is constantly evolving, and so is the way game developers are sourced. In the coming years, we can expect some significant shifts in the trends of talent acquisition in the game development sector. Here are some potential trends to keep an eye on:

• Virtual Recruitment: With the rise of remote work, virtual recruitment is becoming increasingly popular. This trend is likely to continue in the game development industry, with more companies looking to hire developers from all over the world. Virtual recruitment opens up a much larger pool of talent, giving companies access to the best developers from any location.
• Gig Economy: The gig economy is another trend that is likely to impact game development talent acquisition. More developers are opting for freelance or contract work, which allows them to work on multiple projects at once. This trend is beneficial for both developers and companies, as it allows developers to work on projects that align with their interests, and it gives companies access to a wider range of talent.
• AI-assisted Recruitment: Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in the recruitment process, and it is likely to play a more significant role in the future. AI can help companies identify top talent more efficiently, as well as reduce bias in the hiring process. It can also help companies to identify skills gaps and find candidates with the right skills for the job.
• Online Talent Marketplaces: Online talent marketplaces are becoming more popular, providing a platform for companies to connect with top game development talent from around the world. These marketplaces offer a streamlined recruitment process, allowing companies to find the right developers for their projects quickly and efficiently.
• Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: The gaming industry has been criticized for its lack of diversity, and there is a growing focus on promoting diversity and inclusion in the game development talent pool. Companies are starting to prioritize diversity in their recruitment efforts, looking for candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. This trend is likely to continue, as companies recognize the value of a diverse team in creating innovative and inclusive games.

In conclusion, the future of game development talent acquisition looks bright, with new trends emerging that are likely to impact the industry in the coming years. As the industry continues to evolve, it is important for companies to stay ahead of these trends and adapt their recruitment strategies accordingly.

The Importance of Flexibility and Adaptability

When it comes to finding top game developers for your next project, it’s important to keep in mind that the industry is constantly evolving. As such, it’s crucial to work with developers who are flexible and adaptable to change.

One of the main benefits of working with flexible and adaptable developers is that they can quickly pivot in response to new trends or changes in the market. This can be especially important in the game development industry, where new technologies and platforms are constantly emerging.

Furthermore, flexible and adaptable developers are also better equipped to handle unexpected challenges or setbacks that may arise during the development process. They can quickly adjust their approach and find solutions to problems as they arise, rather than getting bogged down by setbacks or obstacles.

In addition, working with flexible and adaptable developers can also help ensure that your project stays on track and on budget. If changes need to be made to the project scope or timeline, flexible developers can adjust their workload and prioritize tasks to ensure that everything stays on track.

Overall, the importance of flexibility and adaptability in game developers cannot be overstated. When looking for top talent to work on your next project, be sure to prioritize developers who are flexible and able to adapt to change.

FAQs

1. Where can I find game developers?

Game developers can be found on various platforms such as LinkedIn, Upwork, Freelancer, and Dribbble. These platforms have a large pool of skilled game developers who are actively seeking new projects. Additionally, you can also search for game development companies or studios that specialize in creating games for various platforms.

2. How do I find the best game developers for my project?

To find the best game developers for your project, you should start by defining your project requirements and the type of skills you need. Then, you can search for developers who have experience in those specific areas. It’s also important to review their portfolios and references to ensure that they have a proven track record of delivering high-quality work. You can also consider reaching out to their previous clients to ask about their experience working with them.

3. What skills should I look for in a game developer?

Game developers should have a strong understanding of programming languages such as C++ or Java, as well as experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine. They should also have experience with design tools such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, and have a good understanding of game design principles. Additionally, they should be able to work well in a team environment and have excellent communication skills.

4. How do I communicate with game developers?

Once you have identified potential game developers, you should reach out to them to discuss your project. You can communicate with them through various channels such as email, phone, or video conferencing. It’s important to clearly define your project requirements and expectations, and ask them any questions you may have. Additionally, you should also provide them with a detailed scope of work and timeline to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

5. How much does it cost to hire a game developer?

The cost of hiring a game developer can vary depending on their experience, skills, and the complexity of your project. Some developers may charge an hourly rate, while others may charge a flat fee for the entire project. To get a better idea of the cost, you should reach out to several developers and request quotes. It’s also important to keep in mind that the cost of hiring a game developer is an investment in the success of your project, and can ultimately save you time and money in the long run.

From beginner game developer to starting my own indie game studio. I’m only just getting started!