The demand for officially licensed video game pins is at an all-time high. Fans love collecting enamel pins featuring their favorite characters, logos, and artwork from the games they cherish. For pin designers, securing a licensing deal with a video game studio can open doors to new opportunities, allowing them to create official merchandise that appeals to a passionate and dedicated audience.
But how does a pin designer go about collaborating with video game studios and securing the rights to use intellectual property (IP) legally? This guide will break down the key steps to licensing video game pins, from reaching out to game developers to negotiating deals and creating high-quality, collectible pins.
1. Why Licensing Video Game Pins Matters
Before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand why licensing is crucial for video game pins.
✔ Legal Protection: Using copyrighted characters, logos, or artwork without permission can lead to legal issues. Licensing ensures you have official rights to produce and sell your pins.
✔ Brand Trust & Credibility: Fans value authenticity. Officially licensed pins are more desirable than unlicensed ones, as they come with a seal of approval from the game studio.
✔ Exclusive Opportunities: Licensing deals may allow you to create limited-edition or exclusive pins for special releases, anniversary events, or gaming conventions.
✔ Higher Demand & Sales: Licensed merchandise is more likely to be sold in official game stores, online marketplaces, and conventions, boosting visibility and profitability.
Now, let’s explore how to secure a licensing deal with a video game studio.
2. Researching the Right Video Game Studios
Not all studios have the same approach to merchandising and licensing. Some are open to collaborations with independent designers, while others have exclusive contracts with large manufacturers.
Here’s how to find the right studio for your pin designs:
🔎 Look at existing licensed pins. Research if the game already has an official pin collection. If they don’t, it could be an opportunity for you to introduce the idea.
🎮 Start with indie studios. Big companies like Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft have strict licensing policies, making them harder to approach. Indie game developers, on the other hand, are often more open to collaborations.
📜 Check licensing policies. Some studios publish licensing information on their websites. For example, companies like Capcom, Sega, and Square Enix provide guidelines for merchandise licensing.
🤝 Network at gaming events. Attending gaming conventions like PAX, GDC, or E3 can help you connect with studio representatives and discuss potential collaborations in person.
3. How to Secure a Licensing Deal for Video Game Pins
Once you’ve identified a studio you want to collaborate with, follow these steps to pitch your licensing proposal:
Step 1: Prepare a Professional Proposal
Your proposal should highlight the benefits of licensing their game for enamel pins. Include:
✅ Your brand and experience – Showcase your previous pin designs, craftsmanship, and sales success.
✅ Why their game? – Explain why their game is a great fit for enamel pins and how it aligns with collector demand.
✅ Potential designs – Provide concept sketches of character pins, logo pins, or special edition designs.
✅ Revenue potential – Offer data on pricing, production costs, and how the partnership can be profitable for them.
Step 2: Contact the Right Person
Avoid sending generic emails to customer service. Instead, look for licensing managers, merchandising directors, or business development teams. LinkedIn, company websites, and networking at gaming events can help you find the right contacts.
Step 3: Negotiate Licensing Terms
If a studio is interested, they’ll discuss licensing terms, which may include:
💰 Royalty Fees – You may need to pay a percentage of sales to the game studio.
📦 Production Approval – Studios often require final design approvals before manufacturing.
📆 Time-Limited License – Some agreements last for 6 months to a few years, requiring renewal.
🌍 Territory Restrictions – Some licenses are region-specific, meaning you can only sell in certain countries.
4. Designing Video Game Pins That Stand Out
Once you secure a licensing deal, it’s time to create high-quality video game pins that fans will love!
🎨 Stay True to the Art Style – Whether the game is pixelated (Minecraft), cel-shaded (The Legend of Zelda), or high-resolution (Final Fantasy), ensure your pin design stays faithful to the game’s visual style.
🖌 Use Unique Features – Add details like glow-in-the-dark effects, metallic finishes, or moving parts to make the pins extra special.
📦 Offer Limited-Edition Sets – Create collector’s bundles with exclusive packaging to make the pins feel premium.
🎁 Bundle with Merch – Offer video game pins as part of special game bundles, Kickstarter rewards, or pre-order bonuses.
5. Selling Licensed Video Game Pins
Once production is complete, where can you sell your officially licensed pins?
🛒 Game Studios’ Official Stores – Some studios may allow you to sell directly through their merchandise store.
🕹 Gaming Conventions & Events – Sell at PAX, Comic-Con, EVO, and other gaming expos where collectors gather.
🛍 Online Marketplaces – Offer pins on Etsy, Shopify, and Amazon, making sure to follow licensing terms.
👥 Social Media & Crowdfunding – Promote through Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Kickstarter campaigns.
6. Alternative: Partnering with Licensed Distributors
If securing a direct license from a video game studio is challenging, consider working with licensed distributors. Some companies already hold gaming licenses and can collaborate with you to produce officially licensed pins.
Some well-known video game merchandising companies include:
- Fangamer (works with indie and AAA game developers)
- Sanshee (creates collectible video game pins)
- Insert Coin (partners with gaming studios for apparel and accessories)
By working with a licensed distributor, you avoid legal complexities while still creating official pins for video game fans.
Start Your Video Game Pin Business Today!
Creating licensed video game pins is a rewarding opportunity for pin designers looking to expand their reach and work with popular gaming franchises. By securing the proper licensing, respecting IP laws, and designing high-quality pins, you can build a successful business that gamers and collectors will love.
🔹 Ready to create your own video game pins?
🔹 Want to bring your designs to life with expert craftsmanship?
Contact 366pins.com today! We specialize in making high-quality custom video game pins, helping designers create officially licensed collectibles that gamers can’t resist. Let’s turn your pin designs into reality! 🚀
