Explained Simply6th January 2025
Multiplayer has become the pillar of gaming with its multiplayer nature as a blitz shooter, organizational MMO, or a casual game. The trends of multiplayer games are booming in the game industry where users gain an interactive experience connecting with players worldwide. Different elements for creating successful multiplayer games include connectivity, gaming mechanisms, robust infrastructure, etc.
There are businesses and entrepreneurs, who are willing to multiplayer game development including features like real-time communication, cross-platform compatibility, & many more. The multiplayer game is a platform that defines how players interact & engage in games with other players. But what is the cost of making multiplayer games? This question strikes many of the entrepreneurs who are willing to create successful multiplayer games.
What is the Cost of Developing Multiplayer Games?
On average the cost of multiplayer games starts from $10,000 and ranges up to $10 million or more. The cost of making a multiplayer game depends on the level of the game looking to be developed based on features and functionality. For a simple game it ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 whereas for middle level it starts from $100,000 to $500,000. To develop a more exceptional game with advanced features it costs from $1 million to $10 million or more.
The following shows the cost illustration of developing multiplayer games
- Casual Multiplayer Games: The cost to develop casual multiplayer games starts from $20,000 up to $80,000. This type of game consists of basic features that include simple graphics, UI interface, matchmaking, etc. Example: UNO
- MOBA Games: This type of MOBA game costs around $100,000-$300,000. This includes features like high-quality graphics with real-time interaction integrated with advanced AI options.
- Battle Royale Games: Fortnite is a prime example of a battle royale game. This kind of game has stuff like real-time multiplayer, highly detailed animations, and open maps. The first game of this style costs about $300,000-$1,000,000.
MMO Games: World of Warcraft is a good example of an MMO game one can consider. This consists of features like multiplayer capabilities, expandable storylines, etc. The cost to develop this game can range from $500,000-$5000,000 and many more.
How to Manage the Cost of Developing a Multiplayer Game?
- Test with a Small: It is feasible to test the concept by creating an MVP i.e. Minimum Viable Product for your game. Later the game can be enhanced by adding advanced features to the game.
- Outsource the Project: Outsource the project to a Multiplayer Game Development Company that can provide you with complete solutions to different types of multiplayer games.
- Focus On Prime Features: To manage the development cost, focus on integrating the primary features first. Other optional features can be added in the future.
Technology Stack: The technology used including tools and frameworks reflects the development cost & speed of the game. The platform must be scalable and must possess cross-platform compatibility.
The Factors that Affect the Cost of Multiplayer Game Development
1. Concept & Design of Game
Designing is the foundation of game development. Hence, developing a game with minimum graphics can cost less as compared to complex 3D games. For a simple game, it can cost around $20,000, and for high-end games, it can cost up to $500,000+.
2. Features and Functions
The more features, the higher the development cost. Some of the features of multiplayer games include real-time multiplayer, cross-platform compatibility, in-game purchases, integration social media, etc.
3. Animation & Graphics
Graphically impressive & animated well, they needed experienced game developers to build a quality game. Static graphics for 2D begins with $5,000 – $30,000, while 3D comes to $20,000 and $100,000, and other more advanced animation can be $ 50,000 or higher depending on the requirements.
4. Selecting the Right Platform
The cost of multiplayer games may vary depending on the type of game platform selected. It is feasible to have cross-platform compatibility that can cost up to $300,000+. For Android or iOS it can cost around $50,000 – $200,000
5. Experienced & Skilled Game Developers
A skilled and experienced developer can have an impact on cost that includes game designers, developers, animators, testers, and project managers. Rather than hiring developers, outsourcing it to a game development company can help to reduce costs.
6. Testing
Testing helps to make your game free from bugs and errors. The cost also depends on the type of testing chosen. For basic game testing it costs around $5,000 – $15,000 whereas for in-depth QA it can cost up to $50,000.
Also Read : Exploring Different Platforms for Launching Your Ludo Game
Market Size & Overview of Multiplayer Game Development
The research and analysis show that the global gaming market is valued at around $62.1 billion. Considering this scenario of the market size, it is going to reach up to $100 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 6% during this period. The statistics show that multiplayer game development is intended to grow & the way the players interact.
Why Invest in Multiplayer Game Development?
Games are fun for players, but a good opportunity for businesses and entrepreneurs. Some of the well-known multiplayer games like Fortnite, Among Us, etc. are earning great potential with their multiplayer functionality. This is because:
- Social Interactions give a higher retention rate
- Revenue with In-app purchases, ads, and subscriptions
- More Audience Reach with cross-platform compatibilityThese are the features that provide a way for businesses to create a source of revenue with multiplayer games. This is why a business must invest in developing a multiplayer game.
Build the Best Games
Conclusion
Before developing a multiplayer game, it is also essential to know the cost of game development. The above illustrates the cost of developing a multiplayer game, and the factors associated with it. Based on the market size and stats, the reasons why an entrepreneur must invest in multiplayer game development. On the contrary, the multiplayer game developed must deliver quality, graphics, animation, and addictiveness to the gameplay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Multiplayer game development creates a game that allows multiple players to interact on a single platform in the virtual environment. The game can be played over the internet or a local connection connecting players worldwide. Some of the well-known examples of multiplayer game development are MMO, battle royales, etc.
There are different factors associated with developing a multiplayer game including quality of graphics, features to be included, complexity of the game, etc. Other factors like customization in graphics, animation, testing, and marketing may increase the budget to the game development.
A simple mobile game app may take 6-12 months to develop whereas medium-class games take up to 2 years. For developing advanced MMO games it takes around 3-5 years to complete the multiplayer game development process.
For a multiplayer game, the key features can be anything from authentication & matchmaking, to real-time communication, to social feature integrations such as chatting with your friends, etc. Some notable features are cross-play support, customization, in-game events, and extensive player support with robust servers.
There are different monetization strategies for multiplayer games. Some of them are in-game purchases, offering premium subscriptions, and providing downloadable content for recurring revenue. Allow players to play for free for limited-time transactions and encourage them to unlock exciting features. This offers a systematic approach to monetization strategy for multiplayer games.
To hire a development team for developing a multiplayer game can cost around $50,000 and $500,000. Game developers, designers, and QA testers price relies on their expertise and duration of engagement for the development.
Yes, significantly in-app purchases and subscriptions affect the development cost of the multiplayer game. This is because this requires a secured payment gateway to do the transactions. Additionally, it requires UI/UX and needs to be tested. The testing is essential because there are often updates on such payment gateways that have to be maintained.
