Are you a budding game developer with a brilliant idea for the next big thing in gaming? Do you dream of seeing your creation come to life on the screen, played by millions around the world? If so, you may be wondering whether Sega, one of the biggest names in the gaming industry, is open to accepting game ideas from aspiring developers like yourself. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at Sega’s policy on accepting game ideas, and what you can do to increase your chances of success. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, read on to find out how to make your game idea a reality with Sega.
Can You Submit Game Ideas to Sega?
Who Can Submit Game Ideas
Individuals who have a passion for gaming and a unique game idea in mind can submit their ideas to Sega. It is important to note that Sega receives a large number of game idea submissions, and not all of them are accepted. However, if you have a truly innovative and exciting game idea, it may be worth considering submitting it to Sega for consideration.
Additionally, it is important to consider the current market trends and popular genres when submitting your game idea to Sega. Understanding the current gaming landscape and what gamers are currently interested in can increase your chances of success when submitting your game idea.
It is also worth noting that Sega may have specific guidelines and requirements for submitting game ideas, so it is important to carefully review and follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the company. This may include providing detailed information about your game idea, including its concept, gameplay mechanics, target audience, and more.
What Type of Game Ideas Does Sega Accept
If you’re a budding game developer with a brilliant idea for a game, you might be wondering if Sega is the right company to submit your idea to. The good news is that Sega does accept game ideas from outside developers, but there are some guidelines to keep in mind.
Firstly, Sega is primarily interested in game ideas that fit within their existing portfolio of games. This means that they are looking for ideas that are in line with their current genres and audiences. Some of the genres that Sega has traditionally been strong in include:
- Action and adventure games
- Sports games
- Racing games
- Puzzle and strategy games
- Role-playing games (RPGs)
If your game idea falls within one of these genres, it’s more likely to be of interest to Sega. However, it’s worth noting that Sega is also open to exploring new genres and styles of game, so don’t be afraid to pitch your idea even if it doesn’t fit neatly into one of these categories.
In addition to fitting within Sega’s existing portfolio, your game idea should also be well-developed and fully realized. Sega is looking for ideas that have the potential to be successful games, so your idea should be more than just a concept or a rough sketch. It should include details on gameplay mechanics, storyline, characters, and art style, among other things.
Overall, if you have a well-developed game idea that fits within Sega’s existing portfolio, you have a good chance of getting it accepted. However, it’s important to keep in mind that Sega receives many game ideas from outside developers, so you’ll need to make sure your idea stands out from the crowd.
How to Submit Your Game Idea to Sega
Step 1: Prepare Your Game Concept
When submitting your game idea to Sega, the first step is to prepare your game concept. This involves outlining the key elements of your game, including the story, characters, gameplay mechanics, and overall vision. Here are some tips to help you prepare your game concept:
- Define Your Target Audience: Who is your game for? What age group do you want to target? What gender? Understanding your target audience will help you create a game that appeals to them.
- Create a Detailed Storyline: Your game’s storyline should be engaging and compelling. Outline the key plot points, characters, and conflicts that will drive the game forward. Consider the genre of your game and what makes it unique.
- Develop Your Characters: Your game’s characters should be well-rounded and interesting. Give them backstories, motivations, and personalities that make them stand out. Consider how your characters will interact with each other and the player.
- Design the Gameplay Mechanics: What makes your game fun to play? What mechanics will drive the game forward? Consider the controls, level design, and overall gameplay experience.
- Visualize Your Game: Create concept art, mockups, or prototypes to visualize your game. This will help you communicate your vision to Sega and showcase the potential of your game.
By following these tips, you can create a game concept that is compelling and well-rounded. This will increase your chances of getting your game idea noticed by Sega and potentially leading to a successful partnership.
Step 2: Choose the Right Contact Person
When submitting your game idea to Sega, it is crucial to choose the right contact person. The person you choose will determine how your idea is received and who will be responsible for reviewing it. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a contact person:
- Job Title: The job title of the person you choose will determine their level of authority and expertise. For example, if you choose a junior staff member, your idea may not receive the attention it deserves. On the other hand, choosing a senior executive may be too high-level, and your idea may get lost in the shuffle.
- Department: Sega has several departments, including development, marketing, and publishing. Choosing a contact person from the department that best aligns with your game idea can increase the chances of your idea being considered.
- Expertise: Choose a contact person who has expertise in the genre or type of game you are proposing. For example, if you are proposing a sports game, choosing a contact person who has experience in the sports game genre can increase the chances of your idea being well-received.
- Previous Interactions: If you have had previous interactions with a contact person, it may be worth considering them for your submission. This can help build a relationship and increase the chances of your idea being considered.
In summary, choosing the right contact person is crucial when submitting your game idea to Sega. Consider their job title, department, expertise, and previous interactions to increase the chances of your idea being well-received.
Step 3: Contact Sega via Email
When you have a completed game concept and are ready to submit it to Sega, the next step is to contact them via email. This is an important part of the process as it sets the tone for your interaction with the company and shows that you are professional and serious about your idea.
To begin, you will need to find the correct email address to send your submission to. The best place to start is by visiting Sega’s website and looking for a contact or submission page. Here, you should be able to find an email address that is specifically for game submissions.
Once you have found the correct email address, it’s time to craft your email. This is where you will need to be professional and clear about your idea. Start by introducing yourself and your game concept in a brief and concise manner. Make sure to highlight the key features and unique selling points of your game.
It’s also important to include any relevant information about yourself or your team, such as your experience in the gaming industry or any previous successes you have had. This will help Sega to understand who you are and why you are the right person to bring your game to market.
Finally, make sure to attach your game concept or include a link to it in the email. This will give Sega a chance to review your idea in more detail and consider it for potential development.
Remember, the goal of this email is to get Sega’s attention and show them that you have a worthwhile game concept that is worth considering. Be professional, clear, and concise in your communication, and make sure to include all the necessary information for Sega to make an informed decision.
Step 4: Follow Up on Your Submission
Importance of Following Up
It is crucial to follow up on your submission to ensure that your game idea does not get lost in the shuffle. Many game ideas are submitted to Sega every day, and it is easy for yours to get lost in the crowd. By following up, you can ensure that your idea remains at the forefront of the decision-makers’ minds.
How to Follow Up
There are several ways to follow up on your submission. One of the most effective methods is to send a polite email to the person who reviewed your submission. In the email, you should thank them for their time and consideration and ask if they require any additional information or clarification.
Another way to follow up is to call the Sega office and speak to the person who reviewed your submission. This approach can be more effective if you have a more urgent matter to discuss or if you prefer to communicate via phone.
It is important to be patient when following up on your submission. Sega receives a large number of game ideas, and it may take some time for them to review and respond to each one. Be persistent but polite, and do not hesitate to follow up multiple times if necessary.
Tips for Following Up
- Be polite and professional in all communications.
- Thank the reviewer for their time and consideration.
- Ask if they require any additional information or clarification.
- Be patient and persistent in your follow-ups.
- Do not hesitate to follow up multiple times if necessary.
By following these tips, you can increase the chances of your game idea being noticed and considered by Sega. Remember, persistence is key, and by staying on top of your submission, you can improve your chances of success.
Step 5: Protect Your Intellectual Property
When submitting your game idea to Sega, it’s important to protect your intellectual property. This includes ensuring that your idea is properly copyrighted and trademarked, and that you have the necessary legal protections in place to prevent others from stealing or misusing your idea.
Here are some steps you can take to protect your intellectual property when submitting your game idea to Sega:
- Copyright Your Idea
Before submitting your game idea to Sega, it’s important to copyright it. This will give you legal protection for your idea and prevent others from stealing or using it without your permission. To copyright your idea, you can submit a copyright application to the United States Copyright Office or the appropriate copyright office in your country.
- Trademark Your Idea
In addition to copyrighting your idea, you may also want to consider trademarking it. This will give you additional legal protection and prevent others from using your idea in a way that could cause confusion or harm to your brand. To trademark your idea, you can submit a trademark application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office or the appropriate trademark office in your country.
- Non-Disclosure Agreements
Another way to protect your intellectual property when submitting your game idea to Sega is by using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). NDAs are legal contracts that prevent others from sharing or using your idea without your permission. You can use NDAs with potential investors, partners, or other individuals who may be involved in the development of your game.
- Legal Counsel
Finally, it’s important to consider seeking legal counsel when protecting your intellectual property. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal requirements for copyrighting and trademarking your idea, as well as provide guidance on other legal protections you may need.
By taking these steps to protect your intellectual property, you can ensure that your game idea is properly protected and increase your chances of success when submitting it to Sega.
Tips for Crafting a Winning Game Idea
Conduct Market Research
Before you submit your game idea to Sega, it’s important to conduct market research to ensure that your idea is viable and has the potential to succeed in the competitive gaming industry. Here are some tips for conducting effective market research:
- Identify your target audience: Understanding your target audience is crucial for creating a successful game. Research their demographics, interests, and preferences to tailor your game to their needs and preferences.
- Analyze the competition: Look at existing games in your genre and analyze their strengths and weaknesses. Identify gaps in the market that your game can fill and find ways to differentiate your game from the competition.
- Monitor industry trends: Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the gaming industry. Attend trade shows and conferences, read industry publications, and follow industry influencers to stay informed about the latest trends and innovations.
- Gather feedback: Get feedback from potential players, gamers, and industry experts on your game idea. Use this feedback to refine and improve your game concept before submitting it to Sega.
By conducting thorough market research, you can ensure that your game idea is well-informed, innovative, and has the potential to succeed in the competitive gaming market.
Focus on Unique Features
When submitting your game ideas to Sega, it’s important to focus on unique features that set your game apart from the competition. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
- Research the Market: Before you start developing your game, do some research on the current market. Look at what games are popular and what features they have. This will give you an idea of what gamers are looking for and what features you can incorporate into your game to make it stand out.
- Identify Your Target Audience: Knowing your target audience is crucial when developing a game. If you’re targeting a younger audience, for example, you may want to include bright colors and fun characters. If you’re targeting a more mature audience, you may want to focus on a more serious storyline and complex gameplay.
- Brainstorm: Brainstorming is a great way to come up with unique features for your game. Gather a group of friends or colleagues and spend an hour or two discussing ideas. You may come up with something that you wouldn’t have thought of on your own.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different features. You may have an idea that seems strange or unusual, but it could be the feature that sets your game apart from the rest.
- Playtest: Playtesting is an essential part of game development. Get feedback from friends, family, and colleagues to see what they like and don’t like about your game. Use this feedback to refine your game and make it as unique as possible.
By focusing on unique features, you can make your game stand out from the competition and increase your chances of success when submitting your game ideas to Sega.
Develop a Compelling Storyline
When it comes to creating a winning game idea, one of the most important elements to consider is the storyline. A compelling storyline can help to draw players into the game world and keep them engaged for hours on end. Here are some tips for developing a winning storyline for your game:
- Start with a strong premise: Your storyline should be built around a strong central premise that captures the imagination of players. This could be a high-concept idea, such as a post-apocalyptic world where players must fight for survival, or a more character-driven concept, such as a tale of a young hero on a quest to save their kingdom.
- Create memorable characters: Your storyline should be populated with memorable characters that players can connect with on an emotional level. These characters should be well-defined and have their own motivations, goals, and personalities. Consider giving your characters unique traits, such as a quirky sense of humor or a particular skill set, that make them stand out from the crowd.
- Craft a compelling narrative arc: Your storyline should have a clear narrative arc that takes players on a journey from beginning to end. This could be a classic hero’s journey, where the player starts as an underdog and rises to become a hero, or a more complex narrative that weaves together multiple plotlines and characters.
- Use setting to enhance the story: Your game’s setting can be a powerful tool for enhancing the storyline. Consider how the setting can be used to create tension, conflict, or drama. For example, a dark and foreboding forest can be used to create a sense of danger and uncertainty, while a bustling city can be used to create a sense of excitement and energy.
- Experiment with different genres: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different genres when developing your storyline. A blend of genres can create a unique and exciting game experience. For example, a game that combines elements of fantasy and sci-fi could create a rich and immersive world.
By following these tips, you can develop a compelling storyline that will help to make your game idea stand out from the crowd. Remember, a strong storyline is key to creating a game that players will love and remember for years to come.
Ensure Playability and User Experience
Creating a game idea that is both playable and provides a positive user experience is crucial for the success of your submission to Sega. Here are some tips to ensure that your game idea meets these criteria:
- Identify your target audience: Understanding who your game is intended for is the first step in creating a playable and user-friendly experience. Consider factors such as age, gender, and gaming preferences when defining your target audience.
- Focus on game mechanics: Game mechanics are the rules and systems that govern gameplay. They are what make a game fun and engaging. Focus on creating mechanics that are intuitive, easy to understand, and provide a sense of progression.
- Keep it simple: While complex gameplay can be entertaining, it can also be overwhelming and intimidating for players. Keep your game mechanics simple and easy to understand, and focus on providing a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- Test and refine: Once you have a playable version of your game, it’s important to test it extensively and gather feedback from players. Use this feedback to refine and improve your game mechanics, ensuring that they are both fun and accessible to players.
- Prioritize user feedback: User feedback is crucial for creating a positive user experience. Listen to what players are saying and use it to improve your game mechanics and overall user experience.
By following these tips, you can create a game idea that is both playable and provides a positive user experience, increasing your chances of success when submitting your idea to Sega.
Sega’s Game Development Process
Initial Review and Assessment
Once you have submitted your game idea to Sega, the first step in their development process is the initial review and assessment. This is a crucial stage, as it determines whether your idea will move forward or not. Here are some key points to keep in mind during this stage:
- Evaluation Criteria: Sega has a set of criteria they use to evaluate game ideas. These criteria include the game’s concept, its target audience, its originality, its potential for commercial success, and its overall quality. Make sure your idea meets these criteria, and be prepared to defend your concept if necessary.
- Feedback: If your idea is not accepted, Sega will provide feedback on why it was not chosen. This feedback can be invaluable in helping you improve your idea and make it more appealing to Sega. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to strengthen your concept.
- Revision: If your idea is not accepted initially, you may be given the opportunity to revise it and resubmit it. Use this opportunity to address any issues or concerns that Sega may have had with your original idea. Be prepared to make changes and show that you are willing to work with Sega to make your idea the best it can be.
- Timing: The initial review and assessment process can take several weeks or even months. Be patient and persistent, and keep working on your idea in the meantime. Show Sega that you are committed to your concept and are willing to put in the time and effort to make it a success.
Game Prototyping and Feedback
Sega is committed to fostering creativity and innovation in the gaming industry. To ensure that their games meet the highest standards of quality and player satisfaction, Sega has established a rigorous game development process. In this section, we will explore the key stages of Sega’s game development process, with a particular focus on game prototyping and feedback.
The Importance of Game Prototyping
Game prototyping is a crucial step in the development process, as it allows developers to test and refine their ideas before committing significant resources to a full-scale production. By creating a prototype, developers can experiment with different game mechanics, graphics, and user interfaces, and gauge player feedback to identify areas for improvement.
The Prototyping Process at Sega
At Sega, game prototyping typically begins with a small team of developers, who work together to create a basic version of the game. This prototype may consist of a simple game engine, placeholder graphics, and a limited set of gameplay mechanics. The goal is to create a functional game that can be tested and refined based on player feedback.
Once the prototype is complete, it is shared with a small group of internal testers, who provide feedback on the game’s playability, graphics, and overall user experience. This feedback is then used to make improvements to the prototype, which may involve tweaking game mechanics, adjusting graphics settings, or adding new features.
Gathering Feedback from Players
As the prototype evolves, Sega also seeks feedback from a wider audience of players. This may involve conducting beta tests, in which a select group of players are invited to try out the game and provide feedback. Beta tests can be conducted online or in-person, and may involve a small group of players or a larger sample size.
Sega also actively engages with the gaming community through social media, forums, and other online platforms. By listening to player feedback and incorporating it into the game design, Sega can ensure that its games are tailored to the needs and preferences of its target audience.
Iterative Design and Refinement
Based on the feedback gathered during prototyping and beta testing, Sega’s development team will continue to refine and iterate on the game design. This may involve making significant changes to game mechanics, graphics, or user interface, or fine-tuning smaller details such as sound effects and controls.
Throughout this process, Sega remains committed to delivering high-quality games that provide players with a truly immersive and engaging experience. By prioritizing game prototyping and feedback, Sega can ensure that its games are tailored to the needs and preferences of its target audience, and that they meet the highest standards of quality and player satisfaction.
Final Development and Launch
Collaboration with External Development Studios
In the final stages of development, Sega often collaborates with external development studios to ensure the game meets the company’s standards and vision. These studios are carefully selected based on their expertise and track record in the industry. They work closely with Sega’s internal teams to address any issues and refine the game’s features. This collaboration allows Sega to leverage the unique strengths of external studios while maintaining creative control over the project.
Playtesting and Iteration
Playtesting is a crucial aspect of the final development stage, as it provides valuable feedback from the target audience. Sega conducts extensive playtesting sessions with both internal and external testers to identify any bugs, glitches, or gameplay issues. Based on the feedback, the development team iterates on the game’s design, incorporating changes that enhance the player experience. This iterative process ensures that the game is polished and refined before its launch.
Quality Assurance and Certification
Prior to launch, Sega’s games undergo rigorous quality assurance testing to ensure they meet the company’s standards and adhere to industry regulations. This testing includes both technical and content assessments, with a focus on gameplay, performance, and compatibility across different platforms. Once the game passes these tests, it is submitted for certification to various regional rating boards, such as the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in the United States or the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) in Europe. These certifications ensure that the game is suitable for its intended audience and complies with local regulations.
Marketing and Promotion
As the launch date approaches, Sega begins to ramp up its marketing and promotion efforts. This includes creating trailers, demo versions, and other promotional materials that showcase the game’s features and unique selling points. Sega also collaborates with media outlets and influencers to secure coverage and reviews, which can help build anticipation and awareness among potential players. Additionally, the company may participate in industry events, such as trade shows and conventions, to showcase the game and engage with the gaming community.
Launch and Post-Launch Support
On the day of the launch, Sega works closely with retail partners and digital distribution platforms to ensure a smooth release. This includes coordinating with manufacturers for physical copies, setting up online storefronts, and managing pre-orders and digital downloads. Once the game is live, Sega continues to support it with post-launch updates, DLC, and community engagement. This ongoing support helps maintain player interest and ensures that the game remains relevant and enjoyable for its audience.
What to Expect After Submitting Your Game Idea
Possible Feedback from Sega
After submitting your game idea to Sega, it’s important to understand the possible feedback you may receive. Here are some examples of feedback you may encounter:
Positive Feedback
- Sega may express interest in your game idea and ask for more information or a demo.
- They may provide constructive feedback on how to improve your game idea or pitch.
- They may express enthusiasm for your game concept and want to discuss next steps.
Negative Feedback
- Sega may decline your game idea, explaining why it may not be a good fit for their current needs or strategy.
- They may provide feedback on what changes you could make to improve your game idea or pitch.
- They may suggest similar game ideas that have been successful in the past and encourage you to explore those options.
It’s important to remember that feedback is a valuable opportunity to improve your game idea and increase your chances of success. Take the time to consider the feedback you receive and use it to refine your game concept and pitch. If Sega expresses interest in your game idea, be prepared to provide additional information and demos as needed to move forward in the process.
Rights and Royalties
When submitting your game idea to Sega, it is important to understand the rights and royalties that are associated with the submission process.
Royalties
A royalty is a payment made to the owner of a property for the right to use that property. In the context of game development, royalties are typically paid to the game developer by the publisher for the right to publish and distribute the game.
When submitting your game idea to Sega, it is important to understand the royalty rate that will be offered for your game. Sega may offer a standard royalty rate for all game submissions, or they may offer a negotiable rate based on the specific details of your game.
It is important to carefully review the royalty rate offered by Sega and understand the terms and conditions associated with the rate. You should also consider negotiating for a higher royalty rate if you feel that your game has the potential to be highly profitable.
Rights
In addition to royalties, it is also important to understand the rights that you will retain as the creator of the game idea. When submitting your game idea to Sega, you will need to agree to an agreement that outlines the rights that you will retain as the creator of the game.
This agreement may include details such as:
- The rights to use your name and likeness in connection with the game
- The rights to receive credit for your contributions to the game
- The rights to control the direction and development of the game
It is important to carefully review this agreement and understand the rights that you will retain as the creator of the game idea. You should also consider seeking legal advice if you have any concerns about the terms of the agreement.
Next Steps for Aspiring Game Developers
Once you have submitted your game idea to Sega, there are several next steps that aspiring game developers should take to ensure the best possible outcome for their submission.
1. Follow Up on Your Submission
It is important to follow up on your submission to ensure that it has been received and is being considered by the appropriate parties at Sega. You can do this by sending an email to the designated contact person, asking about the status of your submission and inquire about any additional information or materials that may be needed.
2. Prepare for Feedback
It is important to be prepared for feedback from Sega, as they may provide feedback on your submission, which can help you improve your idea and increase your chances of success. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to make improvements to your game idea.
3. Keep Your Idea Evolving
As you wait for feedback from Sega, continue to evolve and refine your game idea. Consider seeking feedback from other sources, such as friends, family, or online communities of game developers. Use this feedback to improve your idea and make it more appealing to Sega.
4. Stay Positive and Persistent
Remember to stay positive and persistent throughout the process of submitting your game idea to Sega. It can be a long and challenging process, but if you believe in your idea and are willing to put in the work to make it a reality, you can increase your chances of success.
5. Be Ready to Act on Feedback
If and when Sega provides feedback on your submission, be ready to act on it. This may mean making changes to your game idea, or it may mean preparing to move forward with the next steps in the process. Be prepared to act quickly and decisively to take advantage of any opportunities that may arise.
6. Stay Focused on Your Goal
Remember to stay focused on your goal of getting your game idea accepted by Sega. It can be easy to get distracted or discouraged along the way, but if you stay focused on your goal and keep working hard, you can increase your chances of success.
FAQs
1. Does Sega accept game ideas from the public?
Sega does accept game ideas from the public, but it is important to note that the company receives a large number of submissions and may not be able to respond to every idea. That being said, if you have a unique and innovative game concept, it’s definitely worth submitting it to Sega for consideration.
2. How can I submit my game idea to Sega?
There are a few ways to submit your game idea to Sega. You can visit the company’s website and fill out a submission form, or you can send your idea to [email protected] It’s important to include as much detail as possible about your game concept, including its genre, target audience, and unique features.
3. What should I include in my game idea submission?
When submitting your game idea to Sega, it’s important to include as much detail as possible about your concept. This should include the game’s genre, target audience, and unique features. You should also consider including any artwork or prototypes that may help to illustrate your idea.
4. How long does it take for Sega to respond to a game idea submission?
The response time for game idea submissions can vary depending on the number of submissions Sega is currently receiving. In general, it can take several weeks or even months to receive a response. If you haven’t heard back from Sega after a few months, it may be a good idea to follow up with the company to ensure that your submission was received.
5. What are the chances of my game idea being accepted by Sega?
The chances of your game idea being accepted by Sega can vary depending on a number of factors, including the quality of your concept and the current needs of the company. That being said, if you have a unique and innovative idea, it’s definitely worth submitting it to Sega for consideration. Even if your idea isn’t accepted right away, it’s possible that it could be developed further in the future.