Contract for Video Game

[llama]

Hey Guys et Gals.,
The good news is I landed a gig writing music for a video game. They've had moderate success in last year with previous titles. Bad news is its a small company and no up front money...But there'll be back end.. ... of course it will turn a profit and composer/sound designer credit. I'm more interested in getting my foot in the door to other game companies so money's not the other riding factor here but if any gets made..then that's even better... The company asked how I want the contract worded. Anyone been in this situation. Any advice ....apart from get a lawyer.. ..I'm thinking of the indie movie model where a composer can write for no up front and then negotiate the back end etc. Thanks y'all.

Derek

[fusilierb]

Yes!! Way to go. Let us know how it goes.
B

[mazz]

Hey that's awesome!

If you haven't already, join G.A.N.G. and post your questions up there. My understanding is that while there's no back end performance royalties for the game industry (typically), you can certainly negotiate a percentage of the profits (hopefully gross profits since the creation of music is a cost of development, you want to get paid first, in other words!).

There's lots of details to be considered on this and a lawyer or other composer who could direct you to a contract would be a good idea. I know Tommy Tallarico has published his contract and you can probably locate that through GANG.

Congrats, have fun!!!!

Mazz

[elser]

I've been reading over one that's offered to me, I could delete all the names involved and forward it to your email if you'd like. It seems there must be specific issues that they want you to decide how to word because there are so many issues involved in one of these contracts that to ask you to write your own would be absurd.

My contract is fairly easy to read except the Moral Rights section which you can look at on another thread in the Biz Section. I didn't know about G.A.N.G., I'll be checking that out too. I just ask that you don't forward it to anyone else or publish it anywhere out of respect for the company.

[llama]

Thanks Bryan for the encouragement. I'm really excited about this. Will keep you posted.

Thanks Mazz. Yes good points. I have joined G.A.N.G already and duh....I didn't even think of that resource. Thanks for the nudge....

Jon. Thanks man!!! That is much appreciated. I'll PM you.

Derek

[jeffgreenleaf]

Nice dude! Keep us posted on how it goes!!

[llama]

Thanks Jeff, Will keep you posted.....Completed first step sending in the NDA....

Derek

[crystallions]

This is really cool! Congratulations!!!

[llama]

Thanks Lydia. Your encouragement and example is inspiring and much appreciated. I'm still looking forward to seeing Pendragon when Netflix makes it available.

Derek

[jonathanm]

Nice job, Derek. Congrats!

I hope the game turns into a major motion picture (a la "Prince of Persia") and you get to write for that too!