Why Some Indie Games Take 10+ Years to Make

In the fast-paced world of video game development, where major studios churn out sequels and spin-offs on tight schedules, a curious phenomenon exists: some independent games take over a decade to complete. While AAA titles often operate with hundreds of developers and multimillion-dollar budgets, indie creators—sometimes working alone or in small teams—may pour years, even a full decade, into a single passion project. But why does this happen?

The Burden of Limited Resources

Unlike large studios, indie developers rarely have the luxury of dedicated teams for programming, art, sound design, and marketing. A solo developer might spend months perfecting a single mechanic, only to realize it needs a complete overhaul. Without the safety net of corporate funding, every hour spent is an hour not earning income elsewhere, forcing many to balance game development with full-time jobs. This slow, piecemeal progress can stretch development into years.

The Pursuit of Perfection (or Something Close)

Many indie games born from a singular vision become labors of love, with creators unwilling to compromise on their artistic intent. Games like Hollow Knight and Stardew Valley spent years in development because their creators refused to release something they weren’t proud of. This relentless iteration—redoing art, tweaking gameplay, refining dialogue—can turn a two-year project into a ten-year odyssey.

Scope Creep: The Silent Killer

What starts as a simple idea can balloon into an unmanageable beast. A developer might begin with a modest 2D platformer, only to keep adding features: crafting systems, branching narratives, multiplayer support. Without strict project management, these expanding ambitions can derail timelines indefinitely. Some games, like Dwarf Fortress, embrace this as part of their philosophy, continuously evolving over decades.

The Emotional Toll

Game development is grueling, especially when progress is slow. Burnout, financial stress, and personal life challenges can force long hiatuses. Developers like Eric Barone (Stardew Valley) and Markus “Notch” Persson (Minecraft) have spoken openly about the mental health struggles tied to years of solitary work. For some, the only way forward is to take breaks—extending development time but preserving sanity.

When the Wait Is Worth It

Despite the delays, many of gaming’s most beloved titles are those that took years to perfect. Undertale, Cuphead, and Shovel Knight all endured lengthy development cycles, yet their polish and creativity cemented them as classics. For indie developers, time isn’t just a constraint—it’s an ingredient. And sometimes, the best games can’t be rushed.

In the end, the decade-long development cycles of some indie games aren’t just about obstacles—they’re about devotion. These games are testaments to persistence, proving that great art doesn’t follow a schedule.