Ahead of Gamescom, matchmaking platform Sail.game has introduced a complimentary tier for developers

The text "Sail.game" overlaid on a vintage map with a navigator's tool, below which reads "The Shortest Route to the Right Partner" and "Connecting Game Developers and Publishers in Seas of Opportunity."

Image credit: Sail.game

The matchmaking platform Sail.game is launching a no-cost option for PC and console game creators in advance of Gamescom.

Starting immediately and available until August 31, developers can bypass the usual €99 charge to access the Entry Cruise tier using promo code SAILFREE.

Though this free tier is limited in time, those who join during Gamescom can gain lifetime access for their games.

The Entry Cruise tier provides several key benefits:

Creation of a game card, providing a detailed project profile for publishers
Matchmaking capabilities with publishers based on criteria like genre, platform, budget, and development phase
Notifications when a project is viewed or shortlisted by publishers
Direct contact from interested publishers and investors

While higher subscription levels offer greater visibility and additional features, the Entry Cruise tier helps developers become discoverable and connect with suitable publishing partners.

CEO Vladimír Geršl remarked, "Numerous excellent games struggle to find the right audience, not due to lack of potential, but because developers lack the time, network, or budget for extensive outreach."

Geršl highlighted, "With over 25 years in the gaming industry, my team and I have cultivated a network of publishers keen on particular project types. Sail.Game leverages this knowledge for digital scouting, facilitating efficient connections between developers and partners."

He added, "Thanks to our partners, we can offer this temporary free access, enabling more studios to secure funding while focusing on crafting outstanding games."

Geršl, along with managing director Guillaume Jamet, introduced Sail.game earlier this year.

The platform currently hosts more than 230 verified publishers and investors, with over 23,000 user interactions recorded.

For qualified publishers, Sail.game’s discovery service remains complimentary. Previously, Jamet explained to GamesIndustry.biz that the €99 fee is essential to preserve the ecosystem's integrity.

"Teams often spend considerably more on travel, events, or online showcases with uncertain results," he noted. "We provide a higher likelihood of being noticed at a lower cost in both finances and time."