How to Write an Indie Game Pitch That Gets Publishers Excited (2024 Guide)

Published on 04/09/2025 by Adrien

You've poured countless hours into your indie game. It's unique, it's fun, it's almost ready... but now comes the daunting part: pitching it to publishers. Getting noticed in a crowded inbox feels like finding a needle in a haystack. But what if your pitch could be the magnet that pulls that needle right out?

I've been there. The frustration is real. That's why understanding what makes a great pitch isn't just helpful, it's essential. This guide breaks down how to craft an indie game pitch that doesn't just get read, but gets publishers excited.

Core Elements Publishers NEED to See

Think of your pitch email as the hook and summary. Get straight to the point. A busy publisher needs to grasp the essentials quickly:

• The Hook: Start with a bang! Your first sentence or two must grab attention. What's the core concept or unique selling point (USP) that makes your game stand out immediately? Example: "Imagine Hades meets Stardew Valley in our upcoming roguelite farming sim, '[Your Game Title]'."
• Game Overview: Briefly explain the genre, target platform(s) (PC, Switch, Mobile?), and the core gameplay loop. What does the player actually do minute-to-minute? Keep it concise.
• Unique Selling Points (USPs): This is crucial. What makes your game different and marketable? Highlight 2-3 key features, mechanics, narrative twists, or art style choices. Be specific! Instead of "innovative combat," try "dynamic, physics-based combat where players can weaponize the environment."
• Target Audience: Who is this game for? Showing you understand your market (e.g., "fans of narrative-driven RPGs like Disco Elysium") builds confidence.
• Team Intro (Brief): Who are you? Keep it short and relevant. Mention key past projects only if they add significant credibility. Focus on why your team is right for this game.
• Current Status & Roadmap: Where is the game now (prototype, vertical slice, alpha, nearing beta)? What are the major next steps or milestones? Be realistic.
• The "Ask": What do you need from the publisher? Funding (include a ballpark figure or state you have a budget available upon request), marketing/PR support, distribution assistance, platform porting? Be clear and direct.
• Links (Non-Negotiable): Provide clear, working links to:
  • A playable build (Itch.io password-protected, private Steam build, TestFlight). Make it easy to access!
  • A compelling gameplay video (YouTube/Vimeo - show, don't just tell!).
  • (Optional but good) Website, press kit, or detailed pitch deck link (Google Drive, Dropbox).

Common Mistakes That Kill Pitches

Avoid these pitch-killers:

• Too Long / Rambling: Publishers get hundreds of emails. Respect their time. Aim for under 300-400 words in the initial email body.
• Vague USPs: "Unique art style" or "fun gameplay" means nothing without context. Why is it unique? How is it fun? Show, don't just claim.
• No Clear Ask: Don't make them guess what you want. Are you looking for funding, publishing, or just feedback? State it clearly.
• Bad Formatting / Wall of Text: Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and bold text for readability. Make it easy to scan.
• Typos & Grammar Errors: This screams unprofessionalism. Proofread meticulously, or use a tool/service.
• Broken Links: The fastest way to the trash folder. Triple-check every link.
• Sending to the Wrong Person/Genre Fit: Research the publisher! Make sure they actually publish games like yours.