Resources

All chapters

1. Key Personnel Clause

   Publishers invest in teams, not just games. This clause defines which team members must stay on the project—and what happens if key developers…
2. The License to the Video Game

   The license clause decides what rights you give your publisher—and what you keep. A small detail here can determine who truly controls your…
3. The short form and long form agreement

   The short and long form define how a publishing deal begins. Understand how early agreements shape your negotiation position and what risks come…
4. Milestone schedules & Advance payments

   Milestones control how and when you get paid. This guide explains how payment structures affect your cash flow and what to do if…
5. Royalties, net revenue & recoup

   Royalties define how developers get paid for their games. This guide explains how revenue is shared, what “recoup” really means, and why wording…
6. The Audit Clause

   The audit clause lets developers verify whether publishers are paying royalties correctly. Learn why this clause is your main safeguard for transparency and…
7. Third Party Software & Engines

   Many games rely on third-party tools and engines like Unreal or Godot. This clause clarifies how their licenses affect your publishing deal and…
8. Marketing Obligations of the Publisher

   A great game still needs visibility. This guide explains what marketing commitments you can expect from your publisher—and how to ensure your game…
9. Intellectual Property Rights

   Your game’s IP is its most valuable asset. This guide explains how publishing agreements handle ownership, rights transfers, and how to protect your…
10. Future Games & Exclusivity

    Some contracts limit what you can create next. Learn how clauses on sequels, spin-offs, and exclusivity can impact your studio’s freedom to develop…
11. Consequences of Termination

    When a publishing deal ends, what happens to your game, store pages, and funding? This guide covers how termination clauses shape your rights…
12. The Legal Video Game Publishing Dictionary

    Confused by legal jargon? This glossary breaks down the most common terms in video game publishing agreements—so you can read contracts with confidence.
13. Bug Fixing, Tech Support & SLAs

    Launch day is only the beginning. This guide explains who handles post-release bugs, support duties, and how service level agreements can affect your…
14. Representations, Warranties & Indemnification

    These clauses decide who carries the risk when legal issues arise. Understand what guarantees you’re giving your publisher—and how to avoid unlimited liability.