I've got a question for anyone who wants to share their two cents, but first here's a brief background.
I am an amateur board game designer, have never published a game, and have had a Work In Progress for the past 2 years. The game is prototyped, plenty of self playtesting and playtesting with close friends, and I have recently started sending out [handmade] prototypes to friends for blind playtesting. I've gotten relatively positive responses (ie there's solid potential and interesting decisions but it needs balance). My goal is to self-publish, start a company, and commence a Kickstarter campaign for crowd funding and publicity by the end of next year.
An idea I've recently had would be to start a blog as an amateur designer where I could hopefully motivate other amateur designers by sharing my experiences, my progress, and ask about theirs.
So my question is this: Would you all think it advantageous to start the company prior to starting the blog?
The reasons why I would are:
-Having an established company would motivate me to finish the game sooner than later.
-Although it would surely be minor, it would help begin branding.
The reasons why I wouldn't are:
-Would it seem pretentious to start a company before the game is finished?
-I'd be paying for and dealing with all other logistical requirements of having a company well in advance of practically needing to having the company established. (Although I don't know if this would be a significant burden.)
Anyways, any suggestions, tips, or opinions would be greatly appreciated.
Oh, I completely agree with you. I am FAR from an expert. In fact, I wouldn't even call it a designer blog; that might presume I've actually designed (and published) a game.
My idea would be to present it as an amateur design blog, emphasis on the "amateur."
You make solid points. A key reason for the blog is to provide myself accountability and motivation. Just as your blog helps you keep your game in perspective, my blog will provide me accountability and drive to complete my game.
To also encourage readers, I do also want the blog to motivate other amateur designers, to show that they CAN design their game. To show them everyone has their own struggles, but with a little willpower and guidance, they can finish it. So it won't be a blog from a designer that seems to be unachievable, but something relatable; from one amateur to another.
While I appreciate your thoughts (and even asked for it), do you have thoughts on my original question?
I will eventually start a company (obviously necessary, to produce and sell a produce). However, I'm considering starting it now, which would be approximately 12-16 months prior to when it really needs established. Is that a good or bad idea, and why?