Micro May 2026: Small Games, Big Ideas
Join a growing movement of bite-sized brilliance this May as Kickstarter invites game creators to launch compact, creative, and wildly fun micro games.
What is Micro May?
It’s an open call for game designers ready to launch small-scale tabletop games that deliver a big impact. Whether you’re brand new to game creation or a seasoned publisher experimenting with something lighter, Micro Game May is all about bold ideas in compact form.
Think: a full strategy game that fits in an envelope. A bluffing party game in a mint tin. A solo puzzle you can take anywhere. If it’s small, clever, and packs a punch, it belongs in Micro Game May.
Since 2024, Micro Game May has quadrupled in participation, and after seeing the excitement from the community, Kickstarter made it an official Open Call in 2025.
Whether you’re launching your very first project or adding a new title to your lineup, this is your chance to connect with a global community of backers who love discovering new mechanics, supporting indie creators, and growing their collections one compact game at a time.
How to Join Micro May in 2026
Ready to go small? Here’s how to participate:
1. Create Your Project
Design a tabletop game that fits the micro game ethos: compact, clever, and complete. There’s no strict size requirement—but we recommend projects that are easy to ship, learn, and play.
2. Launch in May
Projects must go live between May 1 and May 31, 2026, to be included in the Micro May.
3. Apply to Participate
All creators must submit the application form to be included in the Micro May collection and discovery pages. Selected projects may also receive additional promotional support.
4. Include “Micro May” in Your Campaign
We recommend including “Micro May” in your project description so backers can easily find and support your game.
Nicole Amato
Why Launch a Micro Game on Kickstarter?
Lower-risk crowdfunding
Micro games are budget-friendly to produce, making them a great entry point for first-time creators or anyone testing a new idea.
Faster timelines
Smaller scope often means quicker turnarounds from prototype to delivery, something backers value.
Built-in audience
Micro May connects you with a passionate community of tabletop fans looking for their next favorite find.
Creative constraints
Working small pushes big creativity. Limitations often lead to the most inventive gameplay.
Check Out the Webinar
Want help bringing your idea to life? Watch the replay of our Micro May webinar and hear fellow game designers give advice on how to plan, launch, and succeed with a micro game on Kickstarter.
Why launch during Micro May?
✔️ Higher chance of success
84% of Micro Game May projects meet their funding goal, making it a strong format for creators looking to launch with confidence.
✔️ Lower-risk crowdfunding
Micro games are budget-friendly to produce, making them a great entry point for first-time creators or anyone testing a new idea.
✔️ Faster timelines
Smaller scope often means quicker turnarounds from prototype to delivery, something backers value.
✔️ Built-in audience
Micro Game May connects you with a passionate community of tabletop fans looking for their next favorite find.
✔️ Creative constraints
Working small pushes big creativity. Limitations often lead to the most inventive gameplay.
FAQs
Is there a size limit for micro games?
Not officially. But the spirit of the initiative is small—think easy to carry, play, and produce.
Do I need special approval to join?
No formal approval is required to launch as part of Micro May, but you do need to submit the application form. This allows us to tag your project and include it in the Micro May collection.
Can I launch a bigger campaign with a micro game tier?
Micro May is focused on micro-first projects, but you can get creative with your reward tiers.
Can I offer stretch goals or add-ons?
Yes. Just keep fulfillment in mind. Simplicity is often a strength with micro games.
How long can my campaign run?
Kickstarter projects can run up to 60 days, though many creators find around 30 days works best.
Start Small. Think Big.
Micro May is your invitation to create something clever, delightful, and perfectly portable.
Whether you’re building your first game or launching your next mini masterpiece, this is your moment to experiment, connect, and bring your idea to life.
So what are you waiting for?
