New Paragraph

SigninG a Publishing Contract

4B. Art and graphic design

Some designers care deeply about the look of their game, and some are happy to have professionals run with the process. Whether you want to be involved or not, there are some other items related to art and graphic design that you might consider adding to your contract.

1. Involvement in art direction

If you want to be involved in art direction, you need to let your publisher know. Many publishers are willing to include you, but likely do not have this as part of their standard process.

Before commissioning art for GAME, PUBLISHER will consult with DESIGNER on the art direction for GAME and solicit DESIGNER’s feedback on potential artists.

2. Vision review

The boardgame industry is starting to pay an increasing amount of attention to the visual usability of games, but some publishers are much more conscious of this issue than others. This is another thing you could flag in your contract.

PUBLISHER shall review all game materials for usability by players with colorblindness and low vision, including considerations such as color choices, token shapes, font choices, and level of contrast.

3. Playtesting the final graphic design

This is not a common provision, but final products would be stronger if it were a part of more publishers’ processes.

When PUBLISHER has received a final draft of all game materials and the rulebook, including all art and graphic design work, PUBLISHER will conduct at least 5 playtests with players who have not played any prior version of GAME. Alternatively, DESIGNER may agree to run some or all of these playtests. Players will be asked to play a physical copy of GAME, learning from the rulebook with no assistance, and to note parts of the rulebook or other game components that are not clear. PUBLISHER will make good faith efforts to address the issues raised by these playtests, in consultation with DESIGNER.

Share by: