Game developers vs. Publishers - Whats The Difference (Articles)

Developers vs Publishers

A game developer is the one who takes a concept or idea and turns it into a playable game. They then hand that game over to a publisher to be monetized. Some developer companies include Supercell (Clash of Clans), Infinity Ward (Call of Duty), Hidden Path Entertainment (Counter-Strike: Global Offensive), and more.

Meanwhile, a publisher is the entity that takes a game that is either developed internally or externally and then markets it to drive profitability of the product. Major publishers include Electronic Arts (Apex Legends), Tencent Holdings (League of Legends), and many others.

For an analogy, think of a game developer as a book author. The author is looking to find a publisher who will support the author throughout their journey. In return, the author produces content in the form of books that the publisher can then monetize. The author focuses on writing a book and the publisher monetizes it, making it a mutually beneficial relationship. Similarly, in the gaming world, developers are the ones creating the games, while the publisher is the one who takes the product and finds ways to make money for both parties.

These days, there have been an increasing number of publishers expanding into development and developers expanding into publishing, further blurring the lines between the two. Valve Corporation (Dota 2), Blizzard Entertainment (Hearthstone), and Ubisoft (Rainbow Six: Siege) all serve as examples of this trend.

What is a game developer?
A game developer is the person or organization that determines what a video game will look like. They are responsible for the game’s storyline and feel. Programmers within that organization write the code and create the artwork to implement the developer’s vision behind the game. The developer team’s job spans from concept creation to putting the finishing touches on gameplay.
Every game developer has their own style and process, which may be influenced by the size and specialty of their organization.

What is a game publisher?
Game publishers are larger companies or in some cases, the parent organization, that has the resources to put the finished game on the market for the world to play.
It’s not cheap to develop a video game. Developers, especially in the indie category, must work with other companies to put a game into your hands. This includes working with in-person retailers and online stores to ensure your product is visible to the gaming community.
Developers don’t always have the resources to produce, deliver, and support a game all on their own servers. That’s why game publishers exist.

Game developers vs. Publishers - Whats The Difference

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