Indie developers are advised to start community engagement early for crowdfunding, network with industry insiders, and manage stress to prevent burnout.

The developers of 'Hawthorn,' an indie game described as 'Stardew Valley meets Skyrim,' are currently grappling with significant financial challenges.

Heather Cerlan, co-founder and CEO of Near Studios, has been seeking funding throughout 2024 but has faced difficulties as independent game financing options have diminished.

Cerlan revealed that the team is not receiving any payment due to the lack of funding, highlighting the ongoing struggle for financial support.

Founded in 2022, Near Studios has encountered setbacks, including the loss of two original co-founders due to disagreements and personal tragedies that affected team dynamics.

The development team is currently funding 'Hawthorn' from their personal finances, which has added to their financial strain.

To alleviate their financial woes, the team is exploring crowdfunding options like Kickstarter while focusing on community engagement to build support for the game.

If external funding cannot be secured, the team remains determined to launch a Kickstarter campaign to help bring 'Hawthorn' to market.

Despite these challenges, 'Hawthorn' has generated significant interest, appearing on thousands of wishlists, indicating a strong potential audience.

The team, composed of former developers from Bethesda and BioWare, remains dedicated to launching 'Hawthorn' despite the financial hurdles they face.

Cerlan emphasized that her vision for Near Studios extends beyond just the game; it's about fostering a culture and community among developers.

Understanding financial management and exploring various funding options is essential for indie developers like those at Near Studios.