Frequently Asked Questions
Design
Q: I have a handmade prototype. Can you create my game art from this?
A: Yes. Our artists have plenty of experience in turning a rough idea into a finished product. All are experienced in doing art for games!
Q: I don't have a prototype, just some ideas. Is that OK, too?
A: Yes! We can turn your ideas into reality.
Q: Do I need a UPC Code on my game?
A: No, but it is strongly recommended for games that will be sold in retail stores. For small companies, we recommend buyabarcode.com. Games being sold through book stores may also want to consider obtaining an ISBN number. This number is only used by booksellers and is not required outside of that market.
Manufacturing
Q: What will it cost?
A: All games are different, so it depends. Prices vary based on size, colors, number of cards or other components and also quantity. If you know the specifications of the components of your game, we'd be happy to prepare a free, no obligation, quotation for you.
Q: How long will it take?
A: Usually, we can produce your game in about 6-8 weeks domestically. It takes about 2 weeks from the time we get your digital, print ready artwork to the time we are ready to begin manufacturing. During this time we will layout the artwork for our equipment, create a color proof of each component and send it to you. You'll approve (or correct) the proof and send it back. Domestic Manufcaturing usually takes about 6-8 weeks. It can take longer during the busy holiday season, so please plan well in advance for your Christmas release! Overseas manufacturing usually takes longer, about 12-16 weeks.
Q: I need a custom plastic game piece. Can you do that?
A: Yes. but most plastics suppliers will not quote without a detailed drawing. Also, they require a minimum order quantity of 7,000 games worth of custom parts and often charge a hefty mold charge of several thousand dollars. Unfortunately, this means it is often not cost effective for you to do a small run of custom game parts.
Q: Can I supply my own component for my game?
A: Of course. We would like to do as much as we can for your game, but sometimes you've already found the perfect, unique part and developed a relationship with the supplier. Note that you are responsible for all safety certification for components you provide.
Safety/CPSIA
Q: What is the CPSIA?
A: The CPSIA is the Consumer Product Safefy Improvement Act of 2008. This law was passed in the wake of problems with many children's toys containg lead paint and other harmful substances. As written, the law requires testing, certification and labeling of most products intended for use by children, including games. Sadly, the law is poorly written and the CPSC, the goverment agency responsible for enforcement has recommended that the law go back to Congress for fixing. As a result, they have postponed testing (but not meeting the other requirements) enforcement twice. Games are now not required to be tested until after February 10, 2011.
Q: Is my game affected by the CPSIA?
A: If your game is designed for use by anyone age 12 or under, your game is affected. If your game is labeled as "For ages 14 and up" you are not affected.
Q: Is my game safe?
A: Your game will exceed all safety requirements set by the new law, but you are responsible for testing and certification, if required. Benthonic is happy to recommend STR Labs for testing.
Q: What CPSIA information do I need on my game?
A: Two types of information are required. The first set of markings are for “Labeling and Warning” this includes Country of origin, producers markings, Age Grading and Safety Warning Label. To translate this into English: Manufactured in the USA by <your company>. covers the first part of this label. A date or lot number is also required. You also need an age grading if the game is meant to be played by those 12 and under… this means, “for players 12 and under” or whatever age range is appropriate for your game.
The next set of markings involve the content of the game:
If your game has small parts you need to label that as a CHOKE HAZARD under ASTM F963-96a
You also need to indicate that your game is compliant with ASTM F963-07 for Heavy Metal Content and Pthalates where appropriate.
Stickers are considered “temporary labeling” and not allowed under the rules.
Warehousing/Fulfillment
Q: Is Benthonic Group a distributor? Do you offer fulfillment?
A: No. We are happy to set you up with a full service warehousing and fullfillment service near your the manufacturing site, however. Don't have room for 10 pallets of games at your place? We do. Aren't sure how to ship your games to customers around the globe? We are..
Q: Can I have a fulfillment house store most of the games while I keep some for small orders?
A: You bet.
Still have questions?
The people at Benthonic Group are here to help you. Whether you'd like to talk through filling out the Quotation Request while we're on the phone with you, or if you just want to get some advice on least cost production options, please call us at: 269-903-9340. You'll find us to be friendly, easy to work with folks, who would very much like to help you bring your game from dream to reality.