Cost To Hire Game Developer for game development

Game development remains popular simply because of its unparalleled earning potential among all app categories. So, with a unique game idea, you can be tempted to hire game developers and start building your next game. But wait, assessing cost is complex, and that’s why we are here.

The cost of game developers for hire can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the complexity of the game, the platform it is being developed for, and the developer's location. 

Let’s figure out the factors impacting the cost of hiring game developers and then give a game development cost breakdown for different types of games. 

Factors Influencing the Cost to Hire a Game Developer

Type of Game

The game type can considerably impact the cost of hiring a game developer. Simple games, such as puzzles or trivia, require fewer resources and are relatively easy to develop. If you are considering how much it costs to create a video game, assess the cost of respective technologies and skills. 

Simple games generally require a single developer who can handle all aspects of game development, including design, programming, and testing. On the other hand, complex games require a team of developers with specialized skills in various areas, such as game design, programming, art, and sound.

Game Platform

The game's development platform is another important factor affecting the game development cost and the cost of hiring a game developer. A game built for one mobile operating system like iOS or Android can reduce price compared to simultaneously targeting multiple platforms. 

Developing a game for multiple platforms requires additional resources, such as specialised software and hardware, which can increase the cost of hiring a game developer. Furthermore, developing a game for different platforms requires a team of developers with specialised skills in each platform, which can further increase the cost.

Experience, Expertise and Exposure

The developer's experience and his exposure to different types of projects can significantly impact the cost of hiring. Developers with more experience and expertise generally charge higher rates than those without experience.

An experienced game developer better understands the game development process, enabling them to complete the project more efficiently and effectively. If you want to build a 3D game with open-source technology, hiring Three.js developers can be a cost-saving option. Always remember that experienced game developers are more likely to have a portfolio of successful games, which makes them more valuable and in demand.

Developer Location

Where the game developer comes from can influence the hiring cost of a game developer. For example, developers in the United States, Canada, and Europe charge higher rates than developers in India, China, and South America.

Developers in developed countries charge higher rates because of the higher cost of living and the higher demand for their services. Developers in developing countries charge lower rates because of the lower cost of living and the lower demand for their services.

The Scope of the Game App Project

If you worry about how much it costs to make a game that may evolve and bring new features occasionally, this is project scope. Larger projects require more resources, increasing the cost of hiring a game developer. For example, a project requiring a team of developers with specialised skills in various areas, such as game design, programming, art, and sound, is more expensive than a single developer.

The project duration also affects the cost of hiring a game developer. Longer projects generally cost more than shorter ones because they require more resources and time.

Freelance vs Agency

The cost of hiring a game developer can also vary depending on whether you hire a freelancer or an agency. Agencies offer more comprehensive services, such as project management, quality assurance, and customer support, which can make them more valuable for larger projects.

Furthermore, agencies generally have a team of developers with specialised skills in various areas, making them more suitable for complex projects requiring multiple skills. On the other hand, freelancers are generally ideal for smaller projects requiring a single developer.

The complexity of the Game Design

The game app's complexity and the corresponding development challenges proportionally increase the cost of hiring a game developer. Complex game designs require more planning, research, and development time. 

They also require a more significant investment in-game mechanics, graphics, sound design, and user interface. As such, game developers with experience in complex game designs may command higher rates than developers who specialize in simpler game designs.

Use of Game Engines and Tools

Using game engines and tools can also impact the cost of hiring a game developer. Game engines and tools provide developers with pre-built game development frameworks and functionality, which can speed up the game development process and reduce costs.

However, using game engines and tools may require specialized knowledge and skills, which can impact the cost of hiring a game developer. Developers with expertise in popular game engines such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and GameMaker Studio may charge higher rates than those who do not.

In-House vs Remote Hiring

Hiring a game developer in-house or remotely can also impact the cost of hiring one. In-house hiring involves hiring a game developer as a full-time employee, while remote hiring involves hiring a game developer as a freelancer or contractor.

In-house hiring may be more expensive because it involves additional costs such as employee benefits, workspace, and equipment. However, in-house hiring may be more beneficial for long-term projects that require a dedicated team.

Remote hiring is often cost-effective for many smaller, limited game app projects needing specific skills. Freelance game developers or contractors can be hired project-by-project, allowing businesses to save on employee benefits and other expenses associated with in-house hiring. But ultimately, hiring a game app development company with proven expertise gives you better chances to stand out from the competition.

Post-development Services

Finally, additional services such as project management, quality assurance, and customer support can also impact the cost of hiring a game developer. All the post-development and quality assurance services play a big role in shaping the success trajectory of your game project. 

Agencies or developers who offer these services may charge higher rates than those who do not. However, these services can provide businesses add value and reduce the risk of project failure.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Game Developer?

Mobile Games

Mobile games are one of the most popular games, and their development costs can range from $10,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on the game's complexity.

Simple mobile games like puzzle games or casual games can be developed for as little as $10,000 to $50,000, while more complex mobile games like role-playing games or strategy games can cost up to $500,000 or more. The cost of hiring developers for mobile games varies accordingly. 

Console Games

Console games are typically more complex and require a larger team of developers, resulting in higher development costs. The cost of developing a console game can range from $1 million to $100 million, depending on the game's scope and complexity.

The cost of developing a console game is affected by factors such as the development team's size, the development cycle's duration, the cost of game engines and tools, and the quality of the graphics and sound design.

PC Games

PC games are typically more complex than mobile games but less complex than console games. A PC game's development cost can be between $20,000 to $5 million or even more significant. The hiring cost will depend mainly on the size of the game app and the corresponding development time. 

Factors that can affect the cost of developing a PC game include the complexity of the game mechanics, the quality of the graphics and sound design, the number of features, and the platform the game is being developed for.

Virtual Reality Games

Virtual reality games are a new and emerging type of game that requires specialised knowledge and skills. The cost of developing a virtual reality game can range from $100,000 to $10 million, depending on the game's complexity and scope.

Factors that can affect the cost of developing a virtual reality game include the quality of the graphics and sound design, the complexity of the game mechanics, the number of features, and the size of the development team.

Augmented Reality Games

Augmented reality games are another new and emerging game requiring specialized knowledge and skills. The cost of developing an augmented reality game can range from $50,000 to $5 million, depending on the game's complexity and scope.

Factors that can affect the cost of developing an augmented reality game include the quality of the graphics and sound design, the complexity of the game mechanics, the number of features, and the size of the development team.

Online Games

Online games, such as massively multiplayer, require a large team of developers and a significant investment in server infrastructure. The cost of developing an online game can range from $1 million to $100 million, depending on the game's complexity and scope.

Ending Notes 

When hiring game developers, you need to consider all these cost factors. Game developers must carefully consider the type of game they are developing and the factors that can affect the development costs to ensure they deliver a high-quality game within their budget constraints.

If you're looking to hire game developers who can up your game with a fantastic game, enriched with the latest technologies, Cerdonis Technologies LLC can be resourceful for you. We have a squad of strategic game developers who are experts in developing mobile games ranging from virtual reality to console games. Connect with us to give your gamers a powerful gaming experience.