How expensive is one chapter of Dating Killmulator?

We realized that the actual costs behind creating a chapter aren't always clear, so in the spirit of full transparency, we thought it would be interesting to break it down.

For starters, Chapter 13 was intended to be a budget-friendly release, especially since Chapter 14 is already projected to cost us a whopping $1,440 and it hasn't even been released yet.

Before production even begins, a significant portion of the budget is allocated to collaborations. We strive to pay our collaborators fairly, typically spending between $100 and $300 per collaboration. Fortunately, we usually recoup these costs, as the illustrations tend to generate revenue.

For example, the Chapter 13 illustration "sold" 232 copies. Does that mean everyone paid the full price in cash (which would total around $348)? Not exactly. It is important to account for the many users who acquire illustrations through daily login rewards.

We also allocate funds for backgrounds, as we do not currently have an in-house background artist. Chapter 13 utilized the following assets:

Before the sale, the entire pack cost us $37. This is somewhat low, since we usually spend around $60–$80 per episode.

Núria and I also do some location scouting for inspiration, which tends to be free. However, we also take trips that definitely aren't free.

Here's what we paid to go to fairs this year:

- BCN Games Fest: $692 (counting accommodation, since we slept at Montse's and Natalia's place <3)
- Manga BCN: $173 (split with Júlia, not counting hotels which cost around $600)
- SAGA: $230.65
- San Diego Comic Con Málaga: $3,000
- VicFreak: $90

So... how much does it cost?

Chapter 13: Final Cost Breakdown

- Collaborations: $250.00 ($150 + $100)
- Events: $348.75
- Backgrounds: $37.00

Total Cost: $635.75 (Keep in mind, this was all for a free episode!)

How does the team sustain all of this? Frankly, we don't.

It's thanks to people like you that we get to make Dating Killmulator. We don't have to worry too much about the game paying our bills since both Núria and I work separate jobs (with Núria getting paid around 160$ and Unai around 430$), but we always try to find friendly ways to monetize without interfering with the experience.

Hopefully, someday, we can afford to work on what we love the most: this game.