Yesterday Chesslike was featured in its second indie game showcase video by a dedicated indie review youtube channel. The first one, I had submitted the game to be reviewed but the second one, I think, was of their own volition. It came as a wonderful surprise to us. I assume he found it on a Feedback Friday post on r/gamedev. Yesterday's video by IHeartPieGaming was very charming and overall positive for the game itself. The previous video by WeiseGamer was just as good, and showcased the game really well. Within the last few weeks, we've made some substantial updates to the art and flow of the game which is showcased in the newer video wonderfully. It felt really nice to see someone else playing the game, experiencing the new features, and polish.
Though it's too soon to say exactly what amount of conversion or retention we'll get form the newer video, but overall it's only good things. Everyone knows having videos on youtube made by someone else increases the number of eyeballs on the game. What's fascinating is the relationship between professional youtube influencers and Indie influencers with their respective level of games being reviewed. At my day job, I see thousands of dollars paid out to youtube influencers to promote AAA titles. It makes sense, the youtubers have tons of viewers, and the marketing departments have tons of money and content, which is exactly what the youtubers need.
What fascinates me is that to some degree I am making a game that, someday would love to have youtube influencers review, but am in no position to pay to have that happen. At the same time, there are youtubers who are trying to become one of those influencers who get paid to review, but are not there just yet. We can mutually help each other out at this early stage, all for free mind you. We're just putting in our work to prove ourselves. I think that in its essence it what makes the Indie scene so much richer in interesting content and mechanics. It's amazing to see it transfer over to other mediums in this sort of way and I hope to keep working with more and more people over a variety of mediums to help promote each others hard work.
The Videos:
