Since the independent game development boom of the 2010s, small studios have frequently received one piece of operational advice: consider selling merchandise. For many, physical goods represent a potential revenue stream beyond game sales. However, the practical realities of this strategy are now being detailed by one studio that navigated the process.
Stellar Jockeys, the developer behind the mech combat game Brigador, has openly discussed what the studio learned from entering the physical merchandise market. The company’s experience, shared in a recent industry interview, focuses on the technical and logistical challenges of manufacturing goods such as enamel pins, which are a popular category among gaming communities.
Manufacturing Complexities for Small Teams
The studio noted that the process of creating enamel pins involved a steep learning curve. “I learnt a tonne about enamel pin manufacturing,” Stellar Jockeys stated, emphasizing that the supply chain for such items is far more complex than many developers anticipate. The company found that small production runs, which are common for indie studios testing the market, can present significant cost and quality control issues.
Key difficulties highlighted include the need for precise design specifications, the selection of appropriate materials, and the management of overseas suppliers. The studio’s experience suggests that without prior knowledge, simple errors can lead to delays or products that do not meet quality standards.
Financial Realities and Investment Risks
Beyond manufacturing, the interview addressed the financial commitment required. For a small developer, allocating funds to inventory can divert resources from core development activities. Stellar Jockeys indicated that the margins on merchandise are not always as generous as they appear, particularly when factoring in shipping, warehousing, and unsold stock.
The company’s account serves as a cautionary tale for other indie studios considering similar moves. The advice to “start small and understand the process before scaling” was a recurring theme in their discussion. The studio recommended that developers research thoroughly before placing large orders.
Lessons for the Indie Development Sector
The Brigador developer’s reflections add a practical dimension to the common industry advice about diversification. While merchandise can deepen fan engagement and generate supplementary income, the operational hurdles are substantial. Stellar Jockeys stressed that proper planning and realistic budgeting are essential to avoid financial strain.
This case illustrates a broader trend in the indie sector, where studios are increasingly acting as both game developers and small retailers. The combination of creative control and logistical responsibility requires a skillset that many developers must acquire on the job.
Looking forward, Stellar Jockeys intends to apply these hard-won lessons to future projects. The studio is expected to refine its approach to physical goods, potentially focusing on fewer, higher quality items or collaborating with experienced partners. The goal is to create a sustainable merchandise component that supports, rather than hinders, the studio’s primary game development work.
Source: GamesIndustry.biz
