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[jeremiah]

I've poked around several threads but haven't seen answers.

To start, I already have an LLC. I made it to do a bit of software consulting and am wondering if I can now repurpose it. So here goes:

• Can I just brand my games with whatever "studio" name I want. Or does it need to match my company name? For some reason, I find it hard to believe every little indie dev has a corporation behind that logo screen, but I dunno.
• If my company is called X can I safely call myself X Studios or X Games? WAIT. X GAMES? OH NOES.

The funny thing is I don't even have a better name in mind. When I was younger I spent most of my time daydreaming about silly things like names for a company I didn't exactly have. Now, it's the last thing I want to think about, but it's obviously good to have for branding, trailers, press kits, etc.

[RaconteurNick]

The name will have to match. I'm 99% certain you could file to change the name of the LLC and it would be inexpensive and easy. In order to take in revenue you have to have a company in some form -- whether that's a simple sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC or a corporation. So yes, all those little indies do have to have a company behind it if they're selling! If you're going to use that LLC and act in that company's name I recommend filing to change the name to cover your rear.

If it's already, say, Jeremiah, LLC, you could easily go with Jeremiah Games, LLC assuming that name isn't already taken, so that shouldn't be a problem. Google "[state name] business filings" to check your state's website and see if it's available -- you want to look on your state's Secretary of State site for that.

Hope this helps!

[jeremiah]

Thanks. I wanted to avoid it, but I figured that's what I would end up having to do and you're right, I don't think it is that difficult or expensive (a $50 fee in my state I believe). Now I have to think of a name. Hmmm.

[RaconteurNick]

Not a problem! If I can ever be of service to you, don't hesitate to PM me.

Also, voted for your game on Greenlight. Best of luck!