Compensation & Collaboration Structure

GSF is currently an early-stage indie MMORPG project focused on building a playable vertical slice and long-term foundation before large-scale expansion. Because of this, the project is not operating with AAA publisher funding or full traditional salaries at this stage.

Instead, the project is being structured more like an indie startup collaboration built around shared long-term growth.

What This Means:

Revenue Share Agreements
Contributors may receive a negotiated percentage of future project revenue based on their role, contribution level, milestones completed, and long-term involvement. Revenue participation terms will be clearly defined in writing.

Deferred Compensation
Some work may initially be deferred compensation rather than immediate payroll. Deferred compensation means agreed-upon earnings are documented and tracked to be paid later if/when the project reaches funding, monetization, publishing, or revenue milestones.

Founding Contributor Status
Early team members helping establish the project foundation may receive founding contributor recognition, expanded influence on project direction, and stronger long-term compensation opportunities depending on involvement and commitment.

Part-Time Flexible Development
This project is intentionally being developed sustainably to avoid burnout and unhealthy crunch culture. Contributors may work part-time, milestone-based, or around existing schedules while the project grows.

Milestone-Based Agreements
Work responsibilities will be organized into clearly defined deliverables such as gameplay systems, environment assets, multiplayer infrastructure, UI systems, audio packages, or optimization goals. This helps ensure transparency, accountability, and manageable scope.

Future Paid Positions
As the project grows, gains funding, generates revenue, or expands operationally, contributors may transition into more traditional paid roles depending on project needs, available funding, and continued involvement.

Important Notes

• All collaboration will require written agreements

• Ownership, contribution scope, and compensation structure will be defined before work begins

• This is a high-risk/high-ambition indie project and no guarantees of future revenue can be promised

• The goal is to build a sustainable long-term online world carefully and realistically rather than overexpand early

The current focus is:
Start small
Build stability
Create a memorable playable world
Expand sustainably over time