As a passionate game developer and creator, I've had the privilege of collaborating with various talented individuals and teams on itch.io games. These collaborations have allowed me to contribute my skills and assets to bring unique gaming experiences to life. However, there's a pressing issue that I'd like to address today – the importance of proper credit and recognition for contributors.  It's no secret that the world of indie game development thrives on collaboration. Countless artists, musicians, programmers, and designers come together to create the games that players love. Properly crediting contributors is not just a matter of ethics; it's a way to acknowledge the hard work and creativity that each team member brings to the table.

I've been fortunate to work with some incredible game developers and teams on itch.io projects, pouring my heart and soul into creating assets that enhance the gaming experience. Unfortunately, in most instances, I haven't received the credit I believe is essential for all contributors. This can be disheartening, especially when we pour our creative energies into a project.  If you're in a similar situation, it's crucial to address it in a respectful and constructive manner. Here are steps that can help resolve this issue:

1. Communication: Reach out to the game developer or team and kindly express your concerns about not receiving proper credit. Often, this can lead to a positive resolution.
2. Review Agreements: If you have a contract or agreement, revisit it to confirm the terms of credit and attribution. Share this with the developer if needed.
3. Itch.io Policies: Check itch.io's guidelines and policies regarding crediting contributors. Refer the developer to these policies if they are not adhering to them.
4. Community Awareness: If your concerns remain unaddressed, consider leaving a respectful comment or review on the game's itch.io page, informing the community about your contributions and the lack of credit.
5. Legal Consultation: If necessary, seek legal advice to explore your options.

 While addressing the issue of uncredited work is important, it's also crucial to learn from these experiences. When collaborating on future projects, ensure that credit and attribution are discussed and agreed upon beforehand. This proactive approach can help prevent similar issues from arising.

In the spirit of fostering a healthy and collaborative indie game development community, I believe it's vital that all contributors receive the recognition they deserve. Let's work together to make sure that credit is given where credit is due, celebrating the creativity and talent that enrich our gaming experiences.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. Let's continue to create amazing games and give credit where it's rightfully earned.

RYAN LEE EICHELDINGER (UNREAL RYAN)