Publishing Your First Game on itch.io
Publishing your first game on itch.io. Covers page setup, pricing strategy, building a basic press kit, and a launch day checklist to maximize visibility.
5Screenshots
1GIF
Preparing for Launch
Export your game build for your target platforms. Write a short description under 200 words. Take screenshots during gameplay, not from the editor. Record a 10 to 30 second GIF of the most interesting gameplay moment.
Setting Up the Page
Set a cover image at 315x250 pixels. Write a compelling short description. Add tags generously: genre, engine, theme, platform. Set pricing to free or pay-what-you-want for a first release to maximize downloads.
Post-Launch Promotion
Post to itch.io's community boards. Share in relevant subreddits and Discord servers. Reach out to small game YouTubers and streamers. Submit to game jams retroactively if eligible.
Launch Day Checklist
Game build uploaded and tested on a clean machine
Cover image and screenshots uploaded
Description complete with no placeholder text
Tags set (at least 8)
Download file labeled with version number
Community post written for itch.io feed
Pay-what-you-want at 0 minimum gets you the most downloads and still earns money from players who want to support you. A suggested price of 2 to 3 USD with 0 minimum is the most common strategy for first releases.
