Creating a great indie game trailer isn’t about expensive software or Hollywood-level production — it’s about using the right tools the right way. If you’re wondering how to make an indie game trailer, or which tools actually matter, this guide breaks down everything you need to get started and improve conversion on platforms like Steam.

Whether you’re cutting your first trailer or refining an existing one, these are the essential tools every indie developer should know.

Game Engine Tools (Your Most Powerful Trailer Asset)

Your game engine is the most important tool you already own.

Most indie games are built in Unity, Unreal Engine, or Godot — and all of them give you far more cinematic control than most developers realize.

What You Can Do Inside the Engine

• Detach or re-parent the camera for cinematic angles
• Slow or pause gameplay for dramatic shots
• Capture close-ups players never see during normal play
• Stage scenes specifically for trailer moments

For example, in the horror game Convenient, a shot showing only the antagonist’s feet sprinting through the woods was created by temporarily parenting the camera to the character. During normal gameplay, you’d never see that angle — but for a trailer, it adds tension and visual storytelling.

Pro tip: Trailer footage doesn’t need to match 1:1 gameplay camera behavior. It just needs to be honest and clear.

Video Editing Software (Use What You Have)

There’s no “correct” editing software for indie game trailers. The best choice is the one you’re comfortable with. I use Photoshop and Premiere Pro. They are subscription based, which can get costly after a while. If you’re making a trailer on a budget and need a free alternative, I would use Premiere Rush. Ultimately, the end result is what you make it. You can bend any software to your needs if you put your mind to it. The good ones just make things easier.

Popular Options

• Adobe Premiere Pro – Industry standard, powerful but subscription-based
• Photoshop – Great for thumbnails, capsule art, and text assets
• Premiere Rush – Free/low-cost alternative for simpler edits

What matters isn’t the tool — it’s how you use it. Strong pacing, clean cuts, and clear gameplay beats will outperform flashy effects every time.

A well-edited 30-second trailer beats a messy 90-second one.

Audio Tools (Often Overlooked, Always Important)

Audio is one of the fastest ways to make a trailer feel professional.

You’ll Want:

• Clean gameplay audio (footsteps, attacks, UI sounds)
• One strong music track that matches your genre
• Minimal sound layering (don’t overwhelm the player)

You don’t need a complex DAW — just make sure:

• Music doesn’t drown out gameplay
• Audio hits line up with visual moments
• Silence is used intentionally (especially for horror)

Your Logo (Important — But Not First)

You want a recognizable logo but DONT put this at the beginning of the trailer.

Placing your logo in the first few seconds wastes the most valuable attention window you have. Players want to see the game immediately. Reserve your logo for the end of the trailer with a clear call to action such as “Wishlist on Steam!” or “Support on KickStarter!”.

Best Practice

• Show gameplay within the first 2–3 seconds
• Save your logo for the end
• Pair it with a clear call to action:
  • “Wishlist on Steam”
  • “Demo Available Now”
  • “Support on Kickstarter”

Logos don’t hook players — gameplay does.

Final Thoughts: Tools Don’t Make the Trailer — Decisions Do

Every successful indie game trailer is built from the same ingredients:

• Clear gameplay
• Smart camera work
• Tight editing
• Strong pacing
• A clear call to action

The tools simply help you execute those decisions faster.

If you already have gameplay footage recorded but feel like your trailer isn’t converting wishlists the way it should, that’s usually an editing and pacing issue — not a content one. A focused re-edit can often make a bigger difference than capturing new footage.

FAQ: Indie Game Trailer Tools

What software do indie developers use to make trailers?
Most indie developers use their game engine for capture and tools like Premiere Pro, Premiere Rush, or other non-linear editors for cutting the trailer.

Do I need expensive software to make a good game trailer?
No. Clarity, pacing, and gameplay selection matter far more than software choice.

How long should an indie game trailer be?
Usually 30–60 seconds. Shorter is often better if the hook is clear.

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Hire an Editor for Cheap

A trailer is the quickest way to get more wishlists and more players. If you need help making a game trailer, reach out and I’ll help! 🙂

Also check out my previous work, I’ve even edited for popular indie developers like Puppet Combo!

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