If you've read my previous posts, you know I’ve been giving a lot of thought to the future—specifically, what steps to take as a new game developer entering a competitive market. One path I’ve been considering lately is freelancing. While I’m new to the freelancing world, I’ve been doing some research to understand the landscape, and today I’d like to share what I’ve found so far.
Finding the Right Platforms
The first question that comes to mind is, “Where do freelancers find work?” A few well-known platforms pop up, and among them is Fiverr. On the surface, Fiverr seems straightforward and accessible: freelancers can sign up for free and even improve their qualifications through platform-specific courses. But as I looked deeper, some challenges came up.
Fiverr's fee structure, for example, takes a notable cut of freelancer earnings—5.5% on each transaction, plus an additional $3 for jobs under $100. For freelancers who start with smaller jobs, these fees add up fast. Balancing this cost with income is one of the first hurdles new freelancers encounter, and it’s a reminder that each platform has its pros and cons.
Beyond Fiverr, I also found it’s crucial to consider your reputation on these platforms. Many freelance opportunities are determined by how well-regarded a freelancer’s profile is, which takes time and consistency to build. It’s a bit intimidating to think about, but also exciting; there’s room for growth if you’re willing to put in the effort.
The Freelance Life: More Than Just Talent
One thing became clear: freelancing success requires more than talent alone. With the freelancing landscape growing every day, standing out involves not just creating quality work, but also learning how to promote yourself effectively.
Promotion is something we all struggle with—whether we’re freelancers, influencers, or small business owners. In a market as vast as the internet, building a reputation and finding your unique audience means investing in your personal brand. For freelancers, this might mean developing a standout portfolio and actively engaging on social media to showcase your work.
Building a Portfolio that Shines
Personally, when I look to hire freelancers, seeing their portfolio is a must. You can write all you want in your profile, but visuals speak louder. That’s why building a portfolio of past projects is essential. Whether it’s through streaming on Twitch, posting on Instagram, or creating tutorials on YouTube, the key is showing (not just telling) what you’re capable of.
One particularly effective strategy I’ve noticed is live-streaming. It’s a fantastic way to connect with potential clients, as it lets them see the work process firsthand. Viewers get to witness your skill in action and see how you tackle challenges and bring a project to life. One often-overlooked aspect of building a portfolio is the importance of curation. Rather than filling it with every project you’ve ever worked on, focus on showcasing only your best, most relevant work. Highlight projects that demonstrate both your technical skills and creative versatility.
For game developers, this might mean including well-documented case studies or personal reflections on design challenges and solutions. Adding concise, engaging descriptions of each project will also help potential clients quickly understand your strengths and how you approach your craft.
My Plan as an Aspiring Freelance Game Developer
If I were to start freelancing today, here’s how I’d approach it:
Build a Strong Portfolio – First, I’d focus on creating more personal projects that showcase my strengths. Since I enjoy working in 2D pixel art, I’d create a range of pixel-based characters and environments for my portfolio.
Establish a Niche – Next, I’d concentrate on a specific style—like pixel art for games. Specializing helps potential clients know what to expect, and for a new freelancer, it makes marketing more focused. I’d hone skills in Unity and Godot since they’re both popular engines for 2D games.
Create Consistent Social Media Presence – I’d open accounts across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, where I can share updates, interact with other artists, and connect with potential clients. The idea is to be visible and approachable.
Develop High Professional Standards – Finally, the best way to grow as a freelancer is through word-of-mouth recommendations. Consistent, high-quality work and professional communication with clients, even in tough situations, is essential. It’s not just about getting the job done but doing it in a way that encourages people to recommend you to others.
Freelancing and the Future
So, am I going to go down the freelance route? Maybe. It’s a possibility, and if I do, this plan gives me a roadmap. But what about you, reader? If you were to start freelancing, how would you approach it?
Whatever path we take, the goal is to keep improving, keep learning, and stay dedicated to the craft. Here’s to exploring new possibilities—thanks for joining me on this journey, and I’ll see you in the next post!
