Blue Ocean Games, the KRAFTON-backed venture fund, has announced Rising Tide #2, expanding its groundbreaking indie game competition with innovative dual submission tracks designed to empower creators at every development stage. This enhanced program follows the success of Rising Tide #1, which has already generated investment offers for six promising projects.
Table of Contents
Blue Ocean Games Launches Rising Tide #2 with Dual Tracks
The second iteration introduces two distinct pathways: “In-Development” for active indie developers and “Idea-Only” for creators with concepts but no development experience. This expansion broadens participation beyond traditional developers to include artists, filmmakers, storytellers, and passionate gamers with innovative ideas.
Competition Structure and Rewards
| Track | Target Audience | Top Prize | Additional Rewards |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Development | Active indie developers | $1,000 + pitch opportunity | $100 for top 10 winners |
| Idea-Only | Concept creators | $1,000 IP option | $25,000 if developed |
| Funding Potential | Both tracks | Up to $300,000 | SAIL contract investment |
Revolutionary SAIL Investment Model
Blue Ocean Games’ SAIL (Structured Agreement for Indie Launch) contract offers up to $300,000 per team, with funding tied to objective market-validation milestones rather than subjective checkpoints. Crucially, developers retain IP ownership throughout the process.
Damian Lee, Founder and Managing Partner, emphasized: “Rising Tide is about funding game creators at the earliest stages and pairing their ideas with real market validation through public voting.”
Breaking Industry Barriers
The Idea-Only track takes inspiration from Hollywood’s script optioning system, welcoming creators who “may have never touched a game engine, but have powerful stories or innovative game ideas.” Winners receive $1,000 for Blue Ocean Games to option their concept for 12 months, with potential $25,000 payouts if development partnerships are secured.
Enhanced Submission Process
Rising Tide #2 features refined submission requirements based on community feedback:
- One-minute teaser trailer showcasing the game concept
- 15-second vertical “hook” video optimized for social media
- Improved voting system with direct creator feedback capabilities
Murray Smith, developer of Terra Factoria (a Rising Tide #1 success story), noted: “Finding funding for games can feel like a catch-22—you need a demo to secure funding, but you need funding to make a demo. Blue Ocean Games is breaking that cycle.”
Global Community Platform
Submissions are now open worldwide, with creators encouraged to join the community at the Discord server for support and networking opportunities.
For more indie gaming and funding opportunities, visit TechnoSports Gaming Coverage.
FAQs
Can someone without coding experience participate in Rising Tide #2?
Yes, the new Idea-Only track specifically welcomes creators with concepts but no development experience.
Do developers retain ownership of their games under the SAIL contract?
Yes, Blue Ocean Games’ unique model ensures creators maintain IP ownership throughout the funding process.
