I'd like to present an idea.
I know there are other "Indie's" out there working on console targeted, or generally high profile games. You're funding yourself through small contract work, savings, or via elusive government programs. You're either an individual that does a little bit of everything, or a small team of 2-4 people with complimentary skillsets. And right now you're either working out of a basement, a bedroom, or over the internet.
I'm here to guage the interest in acquiring and setting up shared office space.
A different idea I'm sure, but having been doing this a while, I miss some aspects of
the office. Not so much the hierarchy, licensed titles, or the "catering to the publisher" milestones and such, but the social and collaborative aspects given the creative nature of our business.
You work at your own pace, make your own milestones, report to nobody but yourself. Except this way, you're surrounded by interesting projects growing around you, and people to test your game. Certainly more motivating than browsing forums and checking out what others have done.
Lots of sharing potential. Shared office rent, shared FAX, shared kitchen, shared confidentiality, and the real meat of it, shared knowledge, experience and ideas.
Best of all, we can debate
indieness all day every day.
. Alright, maybe that's not the best thing.
The problem boils down to who can do it. I'm in London Ontario myself, so I'm a good couple hours from those of you in the Toronto area. Each city, and every one inbetween has it's advantages. Cost of living, travel time, entertainment options, "student availability", and so on. I'd love to get a few people involved in some "cost of living" and "office cost" recon. I'd suggest not writing off the idea "
because you'd have to move", at least until we get some cost facts. Bottom line, fast internet, a roof, and some good food in the area and we're set. Beach is optional.
Of course, many MANY many details still need to be ironed out. Anyone involved would need to be able to support themselves and their team (ideally not a "If my client doesn't pay me, I can't pay rent" situation). Our teams should not hate each other. And so on.
Thoughts? Anyone intrigued?
Developer
