When comparing Early Access vs Private Investors, the Slant community recommends Private Investors for most people. In the question“What are the best ways to fund development of an independent game?” Private Investors is ranked 4th while Early Access is ranked 6th. The most important reason people chose Private Investors is:
A successful crowdfunding campaign requires social marketing and community management. Gaining an investor requires convincing just one person that your project is worth it.
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Get end-user feedback earlier in development
Because early access doubles as a public playtest, you can get valuable user feedback while there's still time to implement changes.
Pro You only need one
A successful crowdfunding campaign requires social marketing and community management. Gaining an investor requires convincing just one person that your project is worth it.
Cons
Con Not viable until the game is in a playable state
Early access depends on consumer interest, and few consumers will be interested in an unplayable pre-alpha build. Another option must be used for early development.
Con Equity commitment
An investment is not a loan which can be paid off; it's a permanent piece of the action. Part of your earnings belong to the investor, indefinitely.
Con Comprehensive business plan is essential
If you can't show where the money is going and how long it's going to take to yield returns, you're not likely to get any.