Support Ukraine and Get Great Games
If there’s one thing that’s become increasingly apparent over the last few years, it’s the power of Itch.io’s community charity bundles. The site allows all manner of diverse creators to self-publish their games at no cost, from major teams to solo hobbyists – and they’ve all come together to support Ukraine with the site’s latest mega-bundle.
For just $10 USD minimum, you gain access to over a thousand games, including major hits like Skatebird, Crosscode, SUPERHOT, Celeste, and Minit. The bundle’s organizers are asking if you can, to spare more than $10, as all proceeds go directly to charities supporting humanitarian aid for those in need in Ukraine. Explaining their sentiments on the bundle’s page:
“The people of Ukraine are under attack. As game developers we want to create new worlds, not to destroy the one we have. That’s why we’ve banded together to present this charity bundle to help Ukrainians survive this ordeal and thrive after the war ends. This cause has resonated with creators around the globe, to the extent that our bundle contains almost 1,000 games, tabletop RPGs, books, etc.“
“Over 700 creators have joined in support to donate their work. All proceeds from this bundle will be split between [International Medical Corps and Voices of Children]”
“International Medical Corps provides medical assistance in the region. They have very low fundraising overhead (1% of income), with 89% of donations going to medical aid and 10% to administration. “
“Voices of Children, a Ukrainian organization that helps children cope with the horrors of war, PTSD, readjusting to school, and getting back to being kids. They have also been doing a lot of grassroots impromptu work during the war, such as helping set up shelters. Our hope is that this war will be over soon, and they can begin the work of healing these kids’ hearts.“
A Treasure Trove of Games for a Great Cause!
Across the bundle, you’ll find over 600 digital video games and more than 300 tabletop RPGs, as well as a few books, fanzines, comics, music, and even some game development asset packs.
All included products are commercial releases, pairing a worthy cause with an incredibly compelling bargain. The organizers went on to state that several developers and publishers involved have only just now signed up to release their games on Itch.io for the sake of this bundle. Even for those who can’t donate much, the Itch.io bundle offers a great way to help those in need in Ukraine.
As for the bundle’s mere ten dollar price point, they go on to add: “We kept the minimum low, but we highly urge you to pay above the minimum if you can afford to do so. All proceeds will be split between the charities 50/50.“
Going on to conclude: “We stand with Ukrainians, and with all people around the world who despise war.” A sentiment the world over is feeling as the country endures its Russian invasion. It’s heartening to see such a consistent outpouring of support from the industry’s largest and humblest creators, all united for the common good.
Other Ways to Help Ukraine
Our hearts are with the people of Ukraine. We hope this needless war comes to an end soon, and that the citizens caught in the crossfire remain safe. For more on how to help Ukraine, please visit How To Help Ukraine.com
