How Backers are protected
14-day review per milestone
When proof is posted, each Backer has 14 days to release their share or ask for more. Money not released in time goes back to the Backer.
15% fee, deducted — never added
Backers pay exactly what they choose. The 15% fee comes out of each backing: €100 gives the Dreamer €85. The fee is kept if money is returned.
Gifts, not shares
Backings are gifts. No shares, equity, interest or repayment, and Dreamers keep full ownership. Nothing on cohero is an investment or a loan.
- 01
Before you back
Read the story and the milestones. Check that the amounts add up and that each step has something concrete to prove. If anything is unclear, ask in chat first.
- 02
While the dream runs
Your backing is split across the milestones. When proof is posted you are notified and can release your share or ask for more. You can back anonymously.
- 03
If something goes wrong
If you do not release a milestone in time, the money still held for it and later steps comes back to you, minus the fee. You can report a dream or block a user at any time.
Example milestone plan
An example plan for a video game dream with a goal of €31,000. Backers fund the whole goal, but each milestone's money stays held until you post the proof and Backers release it.
Milestone 1
€4,650 · 15%
Prototype the core loop
Post gameplay footage from a small playable prototype, control notes and a scoped list of mechanics for the first version.
Milestone 2
€12,400 · 40%
Build the playable slice
Share a continuous playthrough of the main level, an asset progress sheet and evidence of completed gameplay systems.
Milestone 3
€7,750 · 25%
Expand and test content
Upload new level footage, anonymised playtest notes and a bug summary showing fixes to progression and performance.
Milestone 4
€6,200 · 20%
Package the game build
Post a release candidate walkthrough, settings and save tests, and setup instructions for the intended play platform.
Risks to plan for
- R1
Content outgrows the team
More levels and characters can multiply art and coding work. Fix the playable slice scope first and price additional content only after its production effort is visible.
- R2
Core play feels unclear
A working mechanic may still confuse new players. Schedule outside playtests before expanding levels and budget time to revise controls, feedback and the opening tutorial.
- R3
Performance falls late
New assets can make later levels run worse than the prototype. Set test targets early and check representative scenes before spending the final stage on packaging.
Questions and answers
Does backing a game mean receiving a copy at launch?
A cohero backing is a gift rather than a game purchase. Keep funding milestones focused on development proof, and do not present access keys, sales success or a launch date as something the backing guarantees.
Can I see how my money was used?
Yes. Each milestone shows the Dreamer's proof, how much is held and how much is released. You only release money for milestones you have reviewed yourself.
Should my first milestone be a trailer or a playable prototype?
A prototype is stronger evidence of the core mechanics than an edited trailer alone. Share direct gameplay footage and explain what is playable, what is temporary and which systems the next milestone will add.
Budget example
A typical cost split for a video game dream in Amsterdam, shown in EUR. Backers are charged the equivalent in US dollars.
Example goal
€31,000
- Programming and game systems€17,050 · 55%
- Art animation and audio€6,200 · 20%
- Playtesting and compatibility checks€3,100 · 10%
- Distribution and support reserve€4,650 · 15%
What you receive
- Backers give
- €31,000
- Platform fee (15%)
- −€4,650
- You receive
- €26,350
Ready when you are
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