Indie game developers are voicing concerns over YouTube content creator Clemmy, who runs the channel "Best Indie Games," alleging that his marketing packages are overpriced and provide little return on investment. The accusations suggest that Clemmy's approach may prey on newer, less experienced developers who are desperate for visibility in a crowded market.
Recent discussions on X, formerly Twitter, and Reddit highlight developer experiences with Clemmy's promotional offers. Unconfirmed pricing breakdowns shared by developers indicate that packages, even for a YouTube Short, a brief feature in a longer video, a Twitter post, and a newsletter mention, could cost upwards of $2,228. A single tweet was reportedly priced at $380.
Several developers have come forward with similar figures and expressed disappointment with the results. BitQuest Studios shared that a $177 package resulted in only 1,622 impressions and no significant increase in wishlists. Another developer, Bag Track Games, paid $217 for their trailer to be included in a lengthy showcase video and posted across social media, but reported a lack of meaningful engagement and visibility.
Indie Game Joe, a marketing consultant who offers free advice to developers, stated that this model appears to target "vulnerable, first-time indie developers who don’t have much marketing experience yet." He noted that the pricing is not readily available on Clemmy's website, only becoming apparent after developers inquire about services. Joe also pointed out that the advertised audience numbers do not seem to align with the typical engagement rates of Clemmy's posts, which often show low likes and views.
Furthermore, questions have been raised about the disclosure of paid promotions. While some posts on X include an "#ad" tag, many do not, and there is a lack of clear indication on YouTube content regarding sponsorship. Joe has been contacted by approximately 20 to 30 developers privately over recent months regarding their experiences with Clemmy's showcases and paid packages, reinforcing the pattern of alleged financial disappointment.
Joe himself clarifies that his consultancy work is primarily unpaid, with his income derived from his own game development studio. This situation underscores the challenges faced by indie developers, who struggle with market saturation, predatory publishers, and the high cost of marketing with uncertain outcomes. With an estimated 72 new games releasing daily on Steam, many receiving minimal reviews, the pressure to gain visibility is immense, leading some developers to invest in promotions that ultimately fail to deliver.