How Much Does a Board Game Designer Make?

Are you considering a career in board game design? One of the most common questions aspiring designers ask is, “How much does a board game designer make?” It’s a valid question, as understanding the financial prospects of a career is crucial to making informed decisions. In this post, we’ll delve into the factors that influence a board game designer’s income and provide insights into what you can expect in this creative field.

Understanding Board Game Designer Salaries

Board game design is a niche profession with a wide range of income possibilities. According to industry surveys and job posting analyses, the average salary for a board game designer can vary significantly. Entry-level designers may start with a modest income, while experienced designers with successful titles under their belt can earn a substantial amount.

Several factors influence a board game designer’s earnings:

• Experience: As with many careers, experience can lead to higher pay. Seasoned designers who have built a reputation in the industry often command higher salaries.
• Location: Geographic location can impact earnings, with designers in major cities or gaming hubs potentially earning more.
• Company Size: Designers working for larger game companies may have access to better resources and higher salaries compared to those at smaller indie studios.
• Success of Games: A designer’s income can soar if they create a hit game, especially if it leads to royalties from sales.

It’s also worth noting that many board game designers work on a freelance or contract basis, which means income can fluctuate based on the number and success of projects.

Additional Revenue Streams for Board Game Designers

Beyond a base salary or project fees, board game designers can explore additional revenue streams:

• Royalties: Designers may receive a percentage of sales for each game sold, which can become a significant source of income for popular games.
• Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter have become a popular way to fund and profit from board game projects. For more information on crowdfunding, check out our guide on Mastering Kickstarter: A Step-by-Step Guide to Collecting Your Crowdfunding Money.
• Consulting: Experienced designers might offer consulting services to other creators or companies.

For those interested in the broader world of board games, our Understanding RPG Board Games page offers a deep dive into one of the most popular board game genres.

Realistic Expectations for Board Game Designer Income

While it’s challenging to pinpoint an exact figure due to the variables involved, PayScale and other salary research sites can provide a ballpark estimate for board game designer salaries. As of the latest data, the median annual salary for a game designer is around $60,000, but this can range from $40,000 to over $100,000 depending on the factors mentioned earlier.

Ultimately, the passion for creating engaging and innovative board games is often the driving force behind a designer’s career. While the financial aspect is important, the joy of bringing new games to life and the potential for creating the next big hit are what truly motivate many designers.

If you’re looking to manufacture board games for your next project, consider reaching out to us at AGS, where we specialize in bringing your board game visions to reality.