How to start a Video Game Company business

 

How to start a Video Game Development Business - Video Game Development Business Plan Template

Are you interested in starting your own Video Game Company Business?

Introduction
Starting a video game company is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. With the right mix of creativity, business acumen, and market savvy, you can build a successful business in this exciting industry. There are a few key things to keep in mind as you start your video game company.
First, you need to have a clear vision for your business. What kind of games do you want to make? Who is your target audience? What is your company culture going to be like? Answering these questions will help you formulate a strong business plan and brand identity.
Second, you need to assemble a talented team of developers, artists, and marketers who share your vision. It takes a village to make a great game, so surround yourself with people who are passionate about what they do.
Third, you need to understand the video game market. Who are the major players? What kinds of games are selling well? What trends are emerging? Staying up-to-date on industry trends will help you make better business decisions and create games that appeal to gamers.
Fourth, you need to have a good understanding of the financial side of the business. How much does it cost to develop a game? 
Business Plan
When starting a video game company, it is important to have a clear business plan. This plan should include your company's mission statement, your target market, your marketing strategy, your company structure, your financial projections, and your exit strategy.
Your company's mission statement should be clear and concise. It should explain what your company does and what your company's values are.
Your target market should be well researched. You should know who your target market is, what they want, and how to reach them.
Your marketing strategy should be designed to reach your target market. You should have a plan for how you will market your games, what platforms you will use, and what types of advertising you will use.
Your company structure should be designed to support your business plan. You should decide how your company will be organized, who will make decisions, and how those decisions will be made.
Your financial projections should be realistic. You should have a clear understanding of your costs and how much revenue you expect to generate.
Your exit strategy should be in place from the beginning. You should know when and how you will sell your company or take it public.
Target Market
Assuming you want to start a video game company, you will need to decide who your target market is. The first step is to understand who would be interested in playing the types of games your company produces. This will help you determine what sorts of games to make and how to market them. You can use various research methods to learn about your target market, such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Once you have a good understanding of your target market, you can start to develop a marketing strategy. This will involve creating advertising and promotional materials that appeal to your target audience. You will also need to decide on the best channels for reaching them, such as social media, online advertising, or traditional marketing methods.
Business Model
There are a few different ways to go about starting a video game company. The most common way is to start as an independent game developer and then gradually build up a team and infrastructure as the business grows. Another option is to start a video game company with a group of partners. This can be done by pooling resources and expertise to create a more comprehensive and professional operation from the start. The business model of a video game company will vary depending on the size and scope of the operation.
For small, independent developers, the most common model is to self-finance game development and release titles independently. This allows for complete creative control but can be a high-risk proposition if the games are not successful.
For larger companies, the business model is usually based on partnerships with publishers, platform holders, or other investors. These partners provide funding in exchange for a share of the revenue or ownership stake in the company. This model requires giving up some degree of control but can provide the resources needed to develop big budget games.
There are many factors to consider when starting a video game company. The most important thing is to have a clear vision for what kind of games you want to make and who your target audience is.
Competitive Landscape
In order to start a video game company, you'll need to understand the competitive landscape. There are already many well-established companies in the video game industry, so you'll need to be able to identify a niche that you can fill. You'll also need to be aware of the potential threats that new entrants into the market might pose.
The video game industry is composed of many large companies, such as Electronic Arts and Nintendo. These companies have been in the business for many years and have established themselves as leaders in the industry. They have a lot of resources and experience, which you'll need to compete against. There are also smaller companies in the video game industry, such as indie developers. These companies are often able to be more agile and take more risks than the larger companies. They might be a threat to your business if they're able to release a successful game that appeals to the same market that you're targeting.
You'll need to carefully consider the competitive landscape before starting your video game company. It's important to identify a niche that you can fill and be aware of the potential threats that new entrants into the market might pose.
Costs & Pricing Strategy
Video games are more popular than ever, and there's a lot of money to be made. But before you start your company, you need to think about the costs and pricing strategy. Here's what you need to know.
The cost of starting a video game company can vary depending on a few factors, such as the size of the company and the games you want to develop. However, you can expect to spend at least $50,000 on initial costs, including office space, equipment, licenses, and software. Pricing your games can also be tricky. You want to price them high enough to make a profit, but not so high that nobody will buy them. A good rule of thumb is to price your games at around $60 each. This price point is high enough to make a profit, but not so high that it will deter customers.
Of course, these are just general guidelines
- you'll need to do some more research to figure out the specific costs and pricing strategy for your video game company. But this should serve well as a starting point.
Forming a Legal Entity
If you want to start a Video Game Company business, you will need to form a legal entity. This will protect you from personal liability and help you raise money for your business. You can choose to form a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each type of entity has its own pros and cons, so you will need to choose the one that is right for your business. If you are the only owner of your business, a sole proprietorship may be the best option. This type of business is easy to set up and you will not have to deal with much paperwork. However, sole proprietorships offer no personal liability protection, which means that you could be held responsible for debts incurred by your business. Partnerships are similar to sole proprietorships in that they are easy to set up and offer no personal liability protection. If you decide to form a partnership, you will need to choose a business partner who you can trust and who has complementary skills. It is important to have a written partnership agreement that outlines each partner's roles and responsibilities. A limited liability company (LLC) offers personal liability protection and is a good option for a small group of founders. div>
Opening a Business Bank Account
When you’re ready to start your Video Game Company business, one of the first steps is to open a business bank account. This will help you keep your personal and business finances separate and will make it easier to track your expenses and income. To open a business bank account, you’ll need to have the following information and documents:
-Your business name and address
-Your Social Security number or Employer Identification Number (EIN)
-A list of the owners, officers, and directors of the company
-Articles of incorporation or a business license
-A voided check or deposit slip from the account you’ll be using for your business
Once you have all of the required information and documents, you can visit your local bank or credit union to open a business checking account.
Setting up Business Accounting
If you're starting a Video Game Company business, one of the first things you need to do is set up your business accounting. This will ensure that you're keeping track of your finances and that you're complying with any financial regulations that apply to your business. Here's a quick guide to setting up your business accounting:
1. Choose an accounting software. There are many different accounting software packages available, so do some research to find one that will suit your needs.
2. Set up your chart of accounts. This is a list of all the categories of income and expenditure that you will track in your accounting system.
3. Set up your bank account. You will need a business bank account to manage your finances effectively.
4. Keep track of your income and expenditure. Make sure you keep accurate records of all money coming in and going out of your business.
5. Prepare and file your tax return. Once a year, you will need to file a tax return for your business. Make sure you keep on top of this so that you don't miss the deadline.
Setting up Business Insurance
As a business owner, it is important to protect your company with the proper insurance. When setting up a Video Game Company business, you will need to consider the following types of insurance:
-Product liability insurance: This will protect you in the event that a product you designed and printed causes injury or damage.
-Professional liability insurance: This will protect you in the event that a client suffers damages as a result of your work.
-Business property insurance: This will protect your equipment and premises in the event of damage or theft.
-Business interruption insurance: This will protect you in the event that your business has to stop operations due to a covered event.
-Employee dishonesty insurance: This will protect you in the event that an employee steals from your business.
Speak with an insurance agent to determine which policies are right for your business
Setting up a Business Website
If you want to start a Video Game Company business, one of the first things you need to do is set up a website. This will be your online home base, where potential customers can learn more about your business and what you have to offer. There are a few key things you need to include on your website:
-An About page: This is where you can tell your story and give potential customers a sense of who you are and what you stand for.
-A portfolio: Showcase your best version on your website so that potential clients can see your work.
-A contact page: Make it easy for people to get in touch with you by including your email address and/or social media links.
-Pricing information: Let visitors know how much you charge for your services.
By having a well-designed website, you’ll be able to attract more customers and grow your Video Game Company business
Obtaining the Necessary Permits
You will need to obtain the proper permits before you can start your video game company. The first step is to check with your local government to see what permits are required in your area. Once you have obtained the necessary permits, you will need to register your business with the state. After your business is registered, you will need to obtain a business license. Once you have obtained all of the necessary permits and licenses, you will be ready to start your video game company.
Setting up a Business Number or Appointment Setter
When you’re ready to start your Video Game Company business, one of the first things you need to do is set up a business phone number or an appointment setter. You can use a service like Google Voice to set up a business phone number for your Video Game Company business. Google Voice will give you a free business phone number that you can use to make and receive calls. Once you have a business phone number, you can start taking calls from potential customers. When you get a call, be sure to take down the customer’s name, contact information, and what they need. Once you have this information, you can give the customer a call back to discuss the project in more detail and give them a quote.
Conclusion
If you're reading this, then you're probably interested in starting a video game company. This is a great idea! The video game industry is growing rapidly and there are many opportunities for new businesses to succeed. There are a few things you should keep in mind when starting a video game company. First, you need to create a great product. This seems obvious, but it's important to remember that the video game industry is very competitive. You need to create a game that is original and of high quality. Second, you need to market your game well. You need to create a buzz around your game and get people talking about it. You can do this by using social media, PR, and advertising. Finally, you need to have a good business plan. This includes knowing your target market, your competition, and how you're going to make money. Without a good business plan, it will be very difficult to succeed in the video game industry. If you keep these things in mind, then you're well on your way to starting a successful video game company!

Why write a business plan?

A business plan is a critical tool for businesses and startups for a number of reasons:
  • Business Plans can help to articulate and flesh out the business’s goals and objectives. This can be beneficial not only for the business owner, but also for potential investors or partners
  • Business Plans can serve as a roadmap for the business, helping to keep it on track and on target. This is especially important for businesses that are growing and evolving, as it can be easy to get sidetracked without a clear plan in place.
  • Business plans can be a valuable tool for communicating the business’s vision to employees, customers, and other key stakeholders.
  • Business plans are one of the most affordable and straightforward ways of ensuring your business is successful.
  • Business plans allow you to understand your competition better to critically analyze your unique business proposition and differentiate yourself from the market.
  • Business Plans allow you to better understand your customer. Conducting a customer analysis is essential to create better products and services and market more effectively.
  • Business Plans allow you to determine the financial needs of the business leading to a better understanding of how much capital is needed to start the business and how much fundraising is needed.
  • Business Plans allow you to put your business model in words and analyze it further to improve revenues or fill the holes in your strategy.
  • Business plans allow you to attract investors and partners into the business as they can read an explanation about the business.
  • Business plans allow you to position your brand by understanding your company’s role in the marketplace.
  • Business Plans allow you to uncover new opportunities by undergoing the process of brainstorming while drafting your business plan which allows you to see your business in a new light. This allows you to come up with new ideas for products/services, business and marketing strategies.
  • Business Plans allow you to access the growth and success of your business by comparing actual operational results versus the forecasts and assumptions in your business plan. This allows you to update your business plan to a business growth plan and ensure the long-term success and survival of your business.

Business Plan Content

 

Many people struggle with drafting a business plan and it is necessary to ensure all important sections are present in a business plan:
  1. Executive Summary
  2. Company Overview
  3. Industry Analysis
  4. Consumer Analysis
  5. Competitor Analysis & Advantages
  6. Marketing Strategies & Plan
  7. Plan of Action
  8. Management Team

The financial forecast template is an extensive Microsoft Excel sheet with Sheets on Required Start-up Capital, Salary & Wage Plans, 5-year Income Statement, 5-year Cash-Flow Statement, 5-Year Balance Sheet, 5-Year Financial Highlights and other accounting statements that would cost in excess of £1000 if obtained by an accountant.

The financial forecast has been excluded from the business plan template. If you’d like to receive the financial forecast template for your start-up, please contact us at info@avvale.co.uk . Our consultants will be happy to discuss your business plan and provide you with the financial forecast template to accompany your business plan.

Instructions for the Business Plan Template

To complete your perfect Video Game Company business plan, fill out the form below and download our Video Game Company business plan template. The template is a word document that can be edited to include information about your Video Game Company business. The document contains instructions to complete the business plan and will go over all sections of the plan. Instructions are given in the document in red font and some tips are also included in blue font. The free template includes all sections excluding the financial forecast. If you need any additional help with drafting your business plan from our business plan template, please set up a complimentary 30-minute consultation with one of our consultants.

Ongoing Business Planning

 

With the growth of your business, your initial goals and plan is bound to change. To ensure the continued growth and success of your business, it is necessary to periodically update your business plan. Your business plan will convert to a business growth plan with versions that are updated every quarter/year. Avvale Consulting recommends that you update your business plan every few months and practice this as a process. Your business is also more likely to grow if you access your performance regularly against your business plans and reassess targets for business growth plans.

 

Want a Bespoke Business Plan for your Video Game Company Business?

Our Expertise

 

Avvale Consulting has extensive experience working with companies in many sectors including the Video Game Company industry. You can avail a free 30-minute business consultation to ask any questions you have about starting your Video Game Company business. We would also be happy to create a bespoke Video Game Company business plan for your Video Game Company business including a 5-year financial forecast to ensure the success of your Video Game Company business and raise capital from investors to start your Video Game Company business. This will include high-value consulting hours with our consultants and multiple value-added products such as investor lists and Angel Investor introductions.

 

About Us

 

Avvale Consulting is a leading startup business consulting firm based in London, United Kingdom. Our consultants have years of experience working with startups and have worked with over 300 startups from all around the world. Our team has thousands of business plans, pitch decks and other investment documents for startups leading to over $100 Million raised from various sources. Our business plan templates are the combination of years of startup fundraising and operational experience and can be easily completed by a business owner regardless of their business stage or expertise. So, whether you are a budding entrepreneur or a veteran businessman, download our business plan template and get started on your business growth journey today.