Turn your board game idea into a game ready to sell, pitch to publishers or launch on Kickstarter

Yes, but in the UK it is the way your game is expressed that can be protected, not the idea itself. Most board games are protected by copyright, and in some cases a registered design, a trademark or a patent can add extra protection.

• Copyright covers your rulebook text, artwork, board graphics and card designs. In the UK it applies automatically once the work is created, so there is nothing to register.
• Registered design protects the look of physical parts, such as a distinctive board, playing pieces or packaging.
• Trademark protects your game's name and logo, which becomes important once you sell or license it.
• Patent is rarely possible for board games, because UK law excludes methods of playing a game. It may apply if your game includes a new technical or mechanical feature, such as an electronic component or an inventive physical mechanism.

The right protection depends on what makes your game unique. Send us your idea and we'll advise you on the best form of protection for your game, in confidence and under our non-disclosure agreement.

Yes. Your game, your idea and the rights to it remain yours. Working with Innovate does not give us any ownership of your game.

The design work, artwork and prototype files we create for you become yours once paid for, so you are free to pitch, license, crowdfund or self-publish your game however you choose. We do not take a share of your royalties or sales.

Everything you share with us is kept confidential under our non-disclosure agreement, from your first enquiry onwards.

Have a board game idea? Send us your idea and we'll talk you through the next steps.

You don't need a fully finished game, but you do need a playable prototype that looks professional. Publishers see hundreds of submissions each year, and a well-presented prototype shows them your game has been properly developed and tested.

A strong submission usually includes:

• A playable prototype with clear, good-quality components, so the publisher can play it straight out of the box.
• A clear rulebook that a new player can follow without help.
• A sell sheet: a one-page summary covering the game's hook, player count, play time and target age.
• A short gameplay video, as many publishers review these before asking for a copy.

Final artwork isn't always needed, as publishers often use their own artists. Still, a professional look makes a much stronger first impression and helps your game stand out.

We can help you create a presentation prototype and pitch pack that's ready to show publishers. Send us your idea to find out what your game needs.

At Innovate, most board game projects start with a Game Plan from £500, and a professional prototype from £3,480 and £2,200 for a card game (incl. VAT) .

• Game Plan (first step): from £500. We review your concept, assess the market and recommend the best route for your game.
• Prototype: from £3,480 incl. VAT for a professional prototype (or £2,200 for a card game) ready to show publishers or use for crowdfunding.
• Manufacturing: a separate cost, only needed if you self-publish or crowdfund. It depends on your components and print run. If you license your game to a publisher, they normally cover manufacturing.

Every game is different, so your Innovation Coach will confirm exactly what your game needs before you commit. Send us your idea for a free review.