What key info must an indie game pitch include for your Spotlight?

Crafting the Irresistible Indie Game Pitch for a Spotlight Feature

Landing an “Indie Spotlight” feature can be a game-changer for visibility, but it all begins with a compelling pitch. As curators and journalists, we sift through countless submissions, and what truly stands out isn’t just a great game idea, but a pitch that clearly and concisely communicates its value, vision, and readiness. This isn’t just about listing features; it’s about telling a story and demonstrating potential.

The Core Hook: Your Elevator Pitch

Every successful pitch starts with an undeniable hook. This is your one-to-two sentence elevator pitch that encapsulates the essence of your game. What’s the genre? What’s the unique twist? What feeling does it evoke? Make it memorable and intriguing enough to compel the reader to learn more. Think of it as the headline for your entire game.

Following the hook, expand slightly on the game’s core concept. Briefly describe the main gameplay loop, the player’s objective, and the primary mechanics. Avoid jargon where possible; assume the reader might not be intimately familiar with every sub-genre nuance.

Unique Selling Propositions (USPs)

Why this game? In a crowded market, identifying what makes your game distinct is paramount. Highlight 2-3 key features, mechanics, or narrative elements that genuinely set it apart. Is it an innovative control scheme? A never-before-seen blend of genres? A deeply emotional story? Be specific and illustrate how these USPs contribute to a unique player experience.

Visuals and Aesthetic Vision

While the pitch itself is text-based, a strong indication of your game’s visual style is crucial. Describe the art direction, mood, and overall aesthetic. Even better, mention that high-quality screenshots, gifs, or a concise trailer are available (and ideally, provide direct, easy-to-access links within the pitch or as a follow-up). Visuals are often the first thing that captures attention, so convey that you have a clear artistic direction.

Target Audience and Market Positioning

Who is your game for? Understanding your target audience demonstrates market awareness. Are you aiming for fans of specific retro classics, or a broader casual audience? How does your game fit within its genre, and what niche does it fill? This helps us understand its potential reach and appeal. Mentioning comparable titles (comps) can also be helpful for context, but always highlight what makes yours different.

Development Status and Team Information

Where are you in the development cycle? An early prototype, mid-development, or nearly complete? Be transparent about your progress, estimated launch window, and platforms. Briefly introduce your team: who are the key members, and what relevant experience do they bring? This builds confidence and shows professionalism. If you have a playable demo or vertical slice ready, definitely mention it and explain how to access it.

Call to Action and Contact Information

End your pitch with a clear call to action. What do you want the reader to do next? (e.g., “We’d love to offer a hands-on demo,” “Happy to provide more detailed information.”). Most importantly, include clear and professional contact information: an email address, your studio’s website, and links to your social media presence. Make it easy for us to get in touch and learn more.

The “Don’ts” of Pitching

• Don’t be vague: Specificity is key.
• Don’t overhype without substance: Let the game speak for itself.
• Don’t make it too long: Be concise and respectful of time.
• Don’t forget contact info: Make it easy for us to reach you.

A well-structured, informative, and engaging pitch is your golden ticket to standing out. By including these key pieces of information, you significantly increase your chances of catching our eye and securing that coveted Indie Spotlight.