From Modest Kickstarter Campaigns to Gaming Giants: How These Kickstarter Video Games Became Massive Hits

Kickstarter has been a game-changer for indie developers, bringing creative visions to life with the support of backers.

However, not all Kickstarter campaigns start with a bang. Some games only achieve modest funding but later explode in popularity due to strong gameplay, word-of-mouth marketing, and critical acclaim.

Here’s a look at a few games that did okay on Kickstarter but later became massive hits.

1. Hollow Knight (Team Cherry)

Kickstarter Funding: $57,000 AUD (~$42,000 USD)

Hollow Knight, developed by Team Cherry, was initially a modestly funded project with a relatively small backing. However, once it launched in 2017, it quickly gained traction thanks to its stunning hand-drawn art, deep lore, and challenging yet rewarding gameplay.

The game’s Metroidvania-style exploration and tight combat mechanics resonated with players and critics alike. Word-of-mouth praise and strong reviews helped it reach millions of players, turning it into one of the most beloved indie games of all time.

2. Darkest Dungeon (Red Hook Studios)

Kickstarter Funding: $313,337 USD

Darkest Dungeon had a decent Kickstarter campaign, but it wasn’t an instant phenomenon. After its early access release, however, players became obsessed with its punishing difficulty, strategic combat, and unique stress mechanics that impacted character performance.

The game’s success was fueled by streamers and YouTube content creators who showcased its brutal but rewarding gameplay, leading to widespread popularity and strong sales. The game has since spawned expansions and a sequel.

3. Shovel Knight (Yacht Club Games)

Kickstarter Funding: $311,502 USD

Shovel Knight started as a passion project heavily inspired by classic 8-bit platformers. While its Kickstarter campaign was successful, its long-term success came from its excellent gameplay, charming pixel art, and continued post-launch support.

Yacht Club Games provided multiple free expansions and updates, keeping players engaged for years. Additionally, the game’s protagonist, Shovel Knight, became a guest character in several other games, further cementing its cultural impact.

4. FTL: Faster Than Light (Subset Games)

Kickstarter Funding: $200,543 USD

FTL’s Kickstarter campaign exceeded expectations but didn’t make massive waves at the time. However, once the game was released, it quickly became a favourite among strategy and roguelike fans.

The game’s deep space-exploration mechanics, randomized challenges, and permadeath system created a highly replayable experience. Strong word-of-mouth recommendations and glowing reviews led to significant sales, making it one of the most influential indie games in its genre.

5. Undertale (Toby Fox)

Kickstarter Funding: $51,124 USD

Undertale had a humble Kickstarter campaign but became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. Its unique combat system, heartwarming (and often hilarious) writing, and multiple endings captivated players.

The game’s underground fandom spread through social media, fan art, and music remixes, propelling it to widespread acclaim. Undertale’s influence is still felt today, inspiring countless indie developers and maintaining a dedicated community years after its launch.

What Made These Games Successful?

While each game’s journey is unique, several key factors contributed to their massive success post-Kickstarter:

Strong Gameplay and Unique Mechanics: Each of these games offered something fresh and innovative that set them apart from the competition.
Community Engagement: Many of these developers actively engaged with their communities through updates, expansions, and ongoing support.
Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Positive player experiences, YouTube playthroughs, and Twitch streams helped spread the word organically.
Post-Launch Support: Continuous updates, expansions, and ports to new platforms kept these games relevant long after release.

These success stories show that even a modest Kickstarter campaign can be the start of something huge. With the right combination of creativity, dedication, and community support, indie games can go from small passion projects to legendary titles in the gaming world.