By Emma Reynolds 
PAX Unplugged is one of the most anticipated events in the gaming world. It’s a convention that brings together gamers, developers, and industry experts to celebrate tabletop games and all things geeky. But what many people don’t know is that PAX Unplugged also focuses on the rapidly growing trend of indie board games.
With the rise of crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, indie developers have been able to create and sell their own unique board games without the backing of big publishers. And at PAX Unplugged 2023, these indie devs are sure to steal the spotlight with their innovative and exciting new games.
So, how exactly do these indie devs come up with and bring their board game ideas to life? Let’s dive into the world of indie game development and see how these creative minds are shaking up the board game industry.
First and foremost, indie devs have the freedom to experiment and take risks with their board game ideas. Unlike big publishers who have to constantly produce profitable games, indie devs have the luxury of focusing on their passion projects. This allows for more diverse and unique game concepts that may not have been given a chance by larger companies.
These indie devs also heavily rely on feedback from the community, especially from playtests at conventions like PAX Unplugged. This allows them to get real-time reactions and critique from players, helping them refine and improve their games before they hit the market.
One of the biggest challenges for indie devs is funding their projects. This is where the crowdfunding aspect comes into play. With platforms like Kickstarter, indie devs can pitch their game idea to the public and receive financial backing from supporters who believe in their vision. This not only helps fund the production of the game, but it also creates a strong sense of community and loyalty among backers.
But it’s not just about creating the game, indie devs also need to know how to market and sell their product. With PAX Unplugged being a convention filled with passionate gamers, it’s the perfect place for indie devs to showcase and sell their board games. It’s also a great opportunity to network with other developers and industry professionals, potentially leading to collaborations and partnerships.
At PAX Unplugged, indie devs have the chance to stand out and make a name for themselves in the board game industry. With the support of fellow developers, enthusiastic backers, and a growing community of tabletop gamers, indie games are becoming a driving force in the world of board games.
So, if you’re attending PAX Unplugged 2023, be sure to check out the indie dev booths and support these creative and passionate game makers. Who knows, you may just discover your new favorite board game. And for those who can’t make it to the convention, keep an eye out for these unique and innovative indie games hitting the market in the near future.