Fig is a new crowdfunding platform specifically for games set up by industry veterans who have previously worked at Double Fine and on the Fallout series.
The servicer Fig aims to "re-invent how games get funded" and differentiate itself from Kickstarter in the process. By only allowing games, Fig's founders think they will be able to offer more support and focus for each project. Another aspect is what they're calling "investment crowdfunding".
"Investment crowdfunding is currently limited to accredited investors only, but pursuant to a recent regulatory development, Fig plans to open up investment opportunities to everyone in the near future," the company said in a press release.
Investors will contribute their money into a "production company created exclusively for that title. Fig's production company holds exclusive distribution rights to the title, while the developer retains the title's IP rights."
When Oculus raised millions on Kickstarter before being purchased for billions by Facebook, backers lost out as they didn't have equity, which is what investment crowdfunding hopes to change.
Other rewards-only Fig campaigns, which do not offer equite, will also be available and only one crowdfunding campaign will operate at any given time.
The first game to be funded through Fig is Outer Wilds, which is seeking $125,000. Development duties are taking place at Heroes actor Masi Oka's Mobius Digital studio and the game won the Grand Prize and Excellence in Design awards at this year's Independent Games Festival.
Fig's advisory board includes Tim Schafer (Double Fine), Brian Fargo (inXile Entertainment), and Feargus Urquhart (Obsidian Entertainment) – all of whom have been through the crowdfunding cycle before. The three will launch new titles through Fig, details of which have not yet been confirmed, and will mentor and advise developers using the platform.
"Feargus, Tim, and I have all experienced the many challenges of bringing our games to market and nurturing great talent along the way," Fargo commented. “We're proud to be creating an ecosystem that better supports developers and their fans in the quest to bring their passion projects to life–and we believe Fig will become the best option to get games funded in the future."
Fig was established by former Double Fine COO Justin Bailey and received investment from Spark Capital, a venture capital firm which has previously backed Slack, Twitter, and Oculus.
Games which raise finance through Fig will be supported "through the entire life cycle" of the game.
You can sign up for launch information on Fig on its website.
