What is a publisher and what do they do?

What is a publisher and what do they do?

Harry Ravenswood (Lead Designer, Kuju Entertainment) gives expert video advice on: What is a developer and what do they do?; What are 'easter eggs'?; Why do developers put easter eggs in games? and more...

A publisher is usually who is providing the money to make the game. The developer gets the money from the publisher, and over the development of the game, the publisher will be scrutinising it, offering feedback or making certain requests. They'll also be looking to market the game at certain points as well. Finally, when the game's finished, the publishers will be the people who organise getting the game out on the shelves.