Choosing the perfect name for your game company is a pivotal step in establishing your brand. It's the first point of contact with your audience, setting the stage for your games, and conveying your unique identity. So, how do you pick the ideal name that embodies your vision and resonates with players? Let's delve into this exciting task.
First, remember that your company name should be memorable, easy to pronounce, and relevant. It should be a reflection of your game development style, philosophy, or target audience. With that in mind, let's explore the intricacies of this process under two main topics: finding inspiration and ensuring your chosen name is legally and technically sound.
Finding Inspiration
Before brainstorming names, understand your brand. What makes your company unique? What kind of games do you want to create? Let your brand values and gaming vision inspire your name.
Once you have a clear understanding of your brand, brainstorm names. Write down every idea, no matter how silly. Here are a few methods to spark creativity:
Use Descriptive Words
Choose words that describe your brand, like ' Fantasy', 'Nexus', or 'Puzzle'. Combine them or use them as a base for your name. For example, 'Complex Fantasy' or 'NexusPuzzles'.
You can also use adjectives that describe your company's approach to gaming, like 'Intuitive', 'Whimsical', or 'Epic', to create a name that reflects your style.
Incorporate Greek or Latin
These languages contain many words that don't have direct English translations but have compelling meanings. For example, 'Mythologia' (mythology), 'Blueprintum' (blueprint), or 'Nox' (night). They can add a touch of uniqueness and sophistication to your name.
Consider using these languages for prefixes or suffixes. For instance, 'Aeonix' (aeon meaning 'age', and 'ix' sounding techy), or 'Ludus Games' (ludus meaning 'game' in Latin).
Use Acronyms
You can create acronyms from your company's name, a phrase, or even your gaming philosophy. For example, 'B.A.C.K' (standing for 'Bringing Adventures through Creations & Knowledge').
However, be cautious when using acronyms. Ensure they make sense and aren't confusing. Test them with friends and family to gauge their comprehension.
Ensuring Legal and Technical Feasibility
Once you've a list of potential names, it's time to ensure they're legally and practically sound. After all, you wouldn't want to invest in a name, only to find it's taken or difficult to remember.
Firstly, check if the domain name is available. You can use websites like Namechk to see if the domain is available, as well as if the social media handles and other brand touchpoints are taken.
Conduct a Trademark Search
Use the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's (USPTO) Trademark Electronic Search System to see if your name is already in use as a trademark. Also, search Google to see if any existing brands match your name.
If you're planning to operate internationally, consider searching your target markets' trademark databases. Alternatively, consider hiring a professional trademark attorney for this task.
Consider Pronunciation and Spellings
Choose a name that's easy to pronounce and remember. Avoid using special characters or unique letter combinations, as they can lead to confusion and errors. For example, prefer 'RedMane' over 'ReadMané'.
Also, consider how your name looks when written. Ensure it's visually appealing and doesn't lead to awkward spacing or overlapping letters. Always test your name in different fonts and sizes.
Remember, picking a game company name is a personal and critical decision. Take your time, be creative, and let your gaming passion guide you. Good luck with your game development journey!