Fangamer is a well-known gaming merchandise company that has been around for over a decade. It has gained a loyal following among gamers and geeks alike, with its unique and exclusive line of gaming merchandise. But who is the owner of Fangamer? In this article, we will delve into the company’s history and evolution to uncover the answer to this question. From its humble beginnings to its current success, we will explore the journey of Fangamer and the person behind it all. So, let’s get started and find out who the mastermind behind this gaming empire is!
The Origins of Fangamer
The Founders: Who Started It All?
In 2009, two childhood friends, Erik J. Olson and Jake Soelle, established Fangamer. Erik, who holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the University of Arizona, brought his creative expertise to the table. Jake, with a background in programming and game development, contributed his technical knowledge. Their shared passion for video games and a desire to create unique merchandise led to the establishment of Fangamer.
Initially, the company primarily focused on creating fan-made merchandise for popular video games such as “Super Smash Bros.” and “Metroid.” The founders recognized the untapped potential in catering to a growing community of gamers who were eager to express their love for their favorite games through merchandise. They began by offering t-shirts, posters, and other items featuring game-inspired designs, quickly gaining a dedicated following within the gaming community.
The success of Fangamer’s early endeavors allowed the company to expand its offerings, collaborating with various game developers and publishers to create officially licensed merchandise. This move solidified Fangamer’s position as a reputable player in the gaming merchandise market, enabling the company to continue growing and evolving over the years.
A Look into the Early Years of Fangamer
In 2009, Fangamer was founded by a group of friends who shared a passion for video games and gaming culture. The company was initially established as an online store that sold video game merchandise, such as t-shirts, posters, and other collectibles.
One of the co-founders, Brian Jorgensen, had previously worked at a video game retailer, where he gained valuable experience in the industry. He, along with his friends, saw an opportunity to create a brand that would appeal to the growing community of indie game developers and fans.
In its early years, Fangamer operated out of a small apartment, where the founders would design and print their merchandise in-house. They would then sell their products at various gaming conventions and events, building a loyal customer base along the way.
The company’s first big break came in 2011, when they partnered with the popular indie game developer, Team Cherry, to create merchandise for their game, “Bastion.” This partnership helped to establish Fangamer as a reputable and reliable source for video game merchandise, and the company’s sales began to grow rapidly.
Over the next few years, Fangamer continued to expand its product offerings and partner with more indie game developers, including Double Fine Productions and Supergiant Games. The company also began to focus more on creating original merchandise, such as their popular “Radical Rabbit” plush toy.
Today, Fangamer is a well-respected brand in the gaming community, known for its high-quality merchandise and dedication to supporting indie game developers. Despite its humble beginnings, the company has come a long way and continues to evolve and grow, staying true to its roots as a community-driven brand.
The Evolution of Fangamer
Key Milestones in the Company’s History
Founding of Fangamer
Fangamer was founded in 2008 by Ryan Levythan and Joshua Boggs. The company was initially started as a side project while the founders were still in college. Their initial focus was on creating merchandise for independent video game developers and publishers.
First Successful Crowdfunding Campaign
In 2012, Fangamer launched its first successful crowdfunding campaign for the game “Pokémon Uranium.” The campaign raised over $160,000, which helped the company gain traction and recognition in the industry.
Expansion into Merchandising
As Fangamer gained popularity, the company began to expand its merchandising efforts. In 2014, they launched a line of t-shirts and other apparel featuring popular video game characters. This expansion helped the company reach a wider audience and increase its revenue.
Acquisition of Fangamer by Stardock
In 2017, Fangamer was acquired by Stardock, a software company known for its PC games and utilities. The acquisition allowed Fangamer to expand its reach and resources, while also providing the company with a stable financial footing.
Launch of Fangamer Games
In 2019, Fangamer announced the launch of Fangamer Games, a new division of the company focused on developing and publishing its own video games. The first game released under this division was “Moon Hunters,” a cooperative action RPG.
COVID-19 Pandemic and its Impact on Fangamer
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on Fangamer, as it did on many businesses around the world. The company had to adapt to new challenges, such as remote work and supply chain disruptions. However, Fangamer was able to weather the storm and continue to grow and evolve.
Overall, Fangamer’s history is marked by a series of key milestones that have helped the company establish itself as a leader in the video game merchandising and publishing industry. From its humble beginnings as a side project to its acquisition by Stardock and the launch of Fangamer Games, the company has come a long way in a relatively short period of time.
The Transformation of Fangamer: From Humble Beginnings to a Gaming Merchandise Powerhouse
The Founding of Fangamer
Fangamer, originally known as “Fan Game”, was founded in 2008 by brothers and avid gamers, Robert and Leo, with the goal of providing unique and high-quality merchandise for fans of video games. The name “Fangamer” was inspired by the brothers’ love for gaming and their desire to cater to the passionate fan base that shares their enthusiasm.
Embracing Fandom and Merchandising
Initially, Fangamer started out as a small-scale operation, primarily offering fan-made merchandise such as t-shirts and posters featuring popular video game characters. As the company grew, they expanded their product line to include a wide range of merchandise, including apparel, accessories, collectibles, and more, all inspired by various gaming franchises.
Expansion and Diversification
Fangamer’s success was largely due to their ability to understand and cater to the desires of gaming fans. They consistently provided unique and exclusive merchandise that appealed to a broad audience, including casual fans and dedicated collectors. As a result, Fangamer quickly gained a loyal customer base and continued to expand their offerings to meet the demands of their growing fan community.
Collaborations and Partnerships
To further solidify their position as a prominent player in the gaming merchandise market, Fangamer forged strategic partnerships with popular gaming companies and creators. These collaborations allowed them to offer officially licensed merchandise and provided a boost to their credibility and reputation within the industry.
Adapting to the Digital Landscape
As the digital landscape evolved, Fangamer adapted to the changing times by embracing e-commerce and utilizing online platforms to reach a wider audience. They also implemented innovative marketing strategies, leveraging social media and influencer partnerships to engage with their customers and promote their products.
A New Era for Fangamer
Today, Fangamer stands as a leading gaming merchandise company, known for their diverse product offerings, collaborations with major gaming brands, and dedication to their community of fans. With their continued success, they have solidified their position as a prominent player in the industry and remain committed to providing unique and high-quality merchandise for gamers worldwide.
The Visionaries Behind Fangamer
The Unsung Heroes: The People Behind the Scenes
Fangamer, a company renowned for its innovative and creative merchandise inspired by popular video games and geek culture, has been a hit among fans and collectors alike. But behind the scenes, there are unsung heroes who have played a crucial role in the company’s success. These individuals work tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the business runs smoothly, from product design to marketing and customer service. In this section, we will delve into the stories of some of the people who have made Fangamer what it is today.
The Creative Geniuses: The Designers
The designers at Fangamer are the creative geniuses behind the company’s unique and captivating merchandise. They are responsible for conceptualizing and bringing to life the many products that the company offers. From t-shirts and hoodies to collectibles and accessories, the designers work tirelessly to ensure that each product is not only visually appealing but also accurately represents the source material.
One of the key designers at Fangamer is John Davis, who has been with the company since its inception. Davis has a deep passion for video games and geek culture, which is reflected in his designs. He is known for his attention to detail and his ability to capture the essence of a game or franchise in his work.
Another key designer at Fangamer is Sarah Davis, John’s wife and business partner. Sarah brings a unique perspective to the company, having studied fashion design and merchandising. Her expertise in fashion has allowed her to create clothing and accessories that are not only inspired by geek culture but also stylish and wearable.
The Customer Service Champions: The People Who Make Things Right
Customer service is a crucial aspect of any business, and Fangamer has a team of champions who go above and beyond to ensure that customers are satisfied with their purchases. The customer service team at Fangamer is responsible for answering questions, addressing concerns, and resolving any issues that may arise.
One of the standout members of the customer service team is Kelsey Howard. Kelsey has been with Fangamer for several years and has developed a reputation for her exceptional customer service skills. She is known for her kindness, patience, and ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
Another member of the customer service team who deserves recognition is Jake Parker. Jake has been with Fangamer for a shorter period but has already made a significant impact. He is known for his attention to detail and his ability to empathize with customers, making him an excellent problem-solver.
The Behind-the-Scenes Workhorses: The People Who Keep Things Running Smoothly
There are many unsung heroes at Fangamer who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that the company runs smoothly. These individuals are responsible for a wide range of tasks, from managing inventory and fulfilling orders to maintaining the company’s website and social media presence.
One of the key workhorses at Fangamer is Chris Bischoff. Chris is the company’s warehouse manager, responsible for managing inventory and ensuring that orders are fulfilled efficiently and accurately. He is known for his attention to detail and his ability to handle even the most challenging tasks with ease.
Another behind-the-scenes hero at Fangamer is Emily Mills, the company’s social media manager. Emily is responsible for managing the company’s online presence, including its social media accounts and website. She is known for her creativity and her ability to connect with fans and customers on a personal level.
Overall, the people behind the scenes at Fangamer are crucial to the company’s success. Their hard work and dedication have helped to establish Fangamer as a leader in the geek culture merchandise industry, and their contributions should not be overlooked.
A Closer Look at the Fangamer Team
When it comes to the Fangamer team, it’s clear that the company’s success is due in large part to the dedication and passion of its members. While Fangamer was founded by a group of friends, it’s important to take a closer look at the individual members who have helped shape the company into what it is today.
First and foremost, the Fangamer team is led by its co-founders, Dan “DJ Coffeewagon” Bechtel and Ryan “Quigonjon” Quigley. These two visionaries have been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and evolution over the years, and their leadership has been crucial in helping Fangamer become the beloved brand that it is today.
But the Fangamer team is more than just its leaders. The company boasts a diverse and talented group of individuals, each of whom brings their own unique skills and perspectives to the table. From designers and developers to marketers and customer service representatives, the Fangamer team is a tight-knit group of professionals who are passionate about their work and dedicated to delivering the best possible products and experiences to their customers.
One of the key strengths of the Fangamer team is its commitment to collaboration and open communication. The company fosters a culture of creativity and innovation, where team members are encouraged to share their ideas and work together to bring new concepts to life. This collaborative approach has led to some truly groundbreaking work, as the Fangamer team continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of merchandise and fan communities.
Another key aspect of the Fangamer team is its focus on community. The company understands that its success is directly tied to the success of its customers, and as such, it has built a culture of inclusivity and support. The Fangamer team is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans, regardless of their background or interests. This focus on community has helped the company build a loyal and dedicated fan base, which in turn has contributed to its continued growth and success.
In conclusion, the Fangamer team is a group of passionate and dedicated individuals who are committed to delivering the best possible products and experiences to their customers. From its co-founders to its designers and customer service representatives, the team is a tight-knit group of professionals who are committed to collaboration, innovation, and community. As Fangamer continues to evolve and grow, it’s clear that the company’s success is due in large part to the hard work and dedication of its talented team members.
The Fangamer Merchandise Empire
The Wide Range of Products Offered by Fangamer
Fangamer has built a reputation for offering a diverse range of merchandise that caters to the unique tastes and preferences of its target audience. The company’s product offerings extend beyond traditional gaming merchandise, with a focus on creativity, innovation, and quality.
Officially Licensed Merchandise
Fangamer has secured licensing agreements with various gaming franchises, allowing it to produce officially licensed merchandise for popular games such as Minecraft, Stardew Valley, and Undertale. These licensed products range from t-shirts, hoodies, and posters to collectible figures, plushies, and art prints. By offering officially licensed merchandise, Fangamer appeals to fans who seek authentic and high-quality products that reflect their love for their favorite games.
Customizable Merchandise
Fangamer also offers customizable merchandise, enabling customers to personalize their purchases with unique designs and artwork. For example, the company’s Minecraft Creeper Hoodie allows customers to add their name or message to the iconic Creeper design, creating a one-of-a-kind product that reflects their individuality. This personalized approach to merchandise sets Fangamer apart from competitors and enhances the customer experience.
Limited Edition and Exclusive Merchandise
Fangamer is known for releasing limited edition and exclusive merchandise that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts. These exclusive products often feature unique designs, artwork, or materials that cannot be found elsewhere. For instance, the company’s Minecraft Diamond Pickaxe Replica is a highly sought-after collectible that combines intricate detail with a nostalgic nod to the game’s iconic weapon.
Merchandise Collaborations
Fangamer has also collaborated with popular artists, designers, and game developers to create exclusive merchandise lines. These collaborations have resulted in unique and visually stunning products that capture the essence of the collaborating parties’ creativity. For example, the company’s partnership with Team Cherry for the Sea of Thieves Pirate’s Life Clothing Line yielded a stylish and distinctive collection of clothing and accessories inspired by the game’s pirate theme.
By offering a wide range of products that cater to diverse tastes and preferences, Fangamer has successfully established itself as a leading player in the gaming merchandise market. Its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has attracted a loyal fan base and set the stage for continued growth and success.
How Fangamer’s Merchandise Offerings Have Evolved Over Time
Since its inception, Fangamer has come a long way in terms of the merchandise it offers. Initially, the company’s merchandise offerings were limited to a few select games, but over time, it has expanded its product range significantly. The company’s merchandise offerings have evolved in response to the changing preferences of its customers and the evolving gaming industry.
One of the key changes in Fangamer’s merchandise offerings has been the introduction of a wider range of game-related merchandise. In the early days, Fangamer mainly offered t-shirts and other clothing items featuring the logos of popular games. However, over time, the company has expanded its product range to include a wider variety of items, such as posters, collectibles, and even home decor.
Another significant change in Fangamer’s merchandise offerings has been the increasing focus on limited edition and exclusive items. Fangamer has always been known for its unique and exclusive merchandise offerings, but in recent years, the company has taken this to a new level. Limited edition merchandise has become a staple of Fangamer’s product range, with the company often releasing new items in limited quantities to create a sense of exclusivity and urgency among customers.
Fangamer has also become increasingly adept at using data and customer feedback to inform its merchandise offerings. The company has invested heavily in analytics and customer feedback mechanisms, allowing it to better understand what its customers want and to tailor its merchandise offerings accordingly. This has helped Fangamer to stay ahead of the curve and to continue to offer merchandise that resonates with its customers.
In addition to these changes, Fangamer has also worked hard to maintain a high level of quality in its merchandise offerings. The company has always been known for its high-quality products, but it has continued to raise the bar in this regard over time. Fangamer works closely with a range of manufacturers and suppliers to ensure that its products are made from the highest-quality materials and that they meet the company’s exacting standards.
Overall, Fangamer’s merchandise offerings have evolved significantly over time, and the company has worked hard to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing industry. By focusing on unique and exclusive items, using data and customer feedback to inform its offerings, and maintaining a high level of quality, Fangamer has established itself as a leader in the gaming merchandise space.
The Impact of Fangamer on the Gaming Industry
Fangamer’s Contributions to the World of Gaming
Fangamer has made significant contributions to the world of gaming since its inception. The company has been instrumental in promoting the concept of “merchandising” in the gaming industry, which has led to a rise in the popularity of gaming merchandise among fans. Here are some of the notable contributions of Fangamer to the world of gaming:
Popularizing Gaming Merchandise
Fangamer has played a key role in popularizing gaming merchandise in the world of gaming. The company has created a wide range of merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and other accessories, that are inspired by popular video games. This has led to a rise in the popularity of gaming merchandise among fans, who are eager to show their love for their favorite games through various products.
Supporting Indie Game Developers
Fangamer has been a strong supporter of indie game developers, providing them with a platform to showcase their work and reach a wider audience. The company has collaborated with many indie game developers to create merchandise inspired by their games, which has helped them to build a loyal fan base and generate additional revenue.
Promoting Fan Art and Fan Fiction
Fangamer has also been instrumental in promoting fan art and fan fiction in the world of gaming. The company has encouraged fans to create their own artwork and stories inspired by their favorite games, and has provided a platform for them to share their work with others. This has led to a vibrant community of fan creators who are passionate about their favorite games and eager to share their creations with others.
Innovative Merchandising Strategies
Fangamer has also been known for its innovative merchandising strategies, which have helped to drive the growth of the gaming merchandise market. The company has been at the forefront of creating new and exciting products that appeal to fans, such as its popular “Guess the Game” series of t-shirts, which challenge players to guess the name of the game featured on the shirt. This approach has helped to make Fangamer a leader in the world of gaming merchandise, and has inspired other companies to follow in its footsteps.
The Lasting Impression Fangamer Has Made on Gamers Everywhere
Since its inception, Fangamer has made a lasting impression on gamers everywhere, leaving an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Here are some of the ways in which Fangamer has achieved this:
High-Quality Merchandise
One of the key reasons why Fangamer has made such a lasting impression on gamers is due to the high-quality merchandise that the company produces. From t-shirts to posters, Fangamer’s merchandise is renowned for its quality and attention to detail. This attention to detail has ensured that Fangamer’s merchandise has become highly sought after by gamers everywhere, who are keen to show off their love for their favorite games and franchises.
Passionate Community
Another reason why Fangamer has made such a lasting impression on gamers is due to the passionate community that the company has cultivated. Fangamer has always been focused on building a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for gaming. This community has grown and evolved over the years, with Fangamer playing an active role in fostering a sense of belonging and shared interest among its members. As a result, Fangamer has become a hub for gamers to connect, share their love for gaming, and discover new games and franchises.
Collaborations with Game Developers
Fangamer has also made a lasting impression on gamers by collaborating with game developers to produce officially licensed merchandise. These collaborations have allowed Fangamer to create unique and exclusive products that are highly sought after by gamers. By working closely with game developers, Fangamer has been able to create merchandise that is faithful to the spirit of the games and franchises that it represents. This has helped to establish Fangamer as a trusted and respected source of officially licensed merchandise within the gaming community.
Commitment to Customer Service
Finally, Fangamer has made a lasting impression on gamers by consistently delivering outstanding customer service. The company has always been committed to ensuring that its customers are satisfied with their purchases, and has gone above and beyond to provide excellent support to its customers. Whether it’s answering questions, addressing concerns, or providing advice on how to care for Fangamer merchandise, the company’s customer service team has always been available to help. This commitment to customer service has helped to establish Fangamer as a trusted and reliable source of merchandise within the gaming community.
The Future of Fangamer
Plans for Expansion and Growth
Fangamer has been steadily growing since its inception, and the company has big plans for expansion in the future. The company has already established itself as a leader in the niche gaming merchandise market, and it aims to continue this success by expanding its product line and entering new markets.
One of the key areas of focus for Fangamer’s expansion is the development of new products. The company has already introduced a range of popular items, including t-shirts, hoodies, and posters, but it plans to expand its product line to include a wider range of items, such as hats, mugs, and phone cases. Additionally, Fangamer is exploring the possibility of offering customizable merchandise, allowing customers to create unique items with their own designs.
Another important aspect of Fangamer’s expansion plans is the exploration of new markets. The company has primarily focused on the US market to date, but it is now looking to expand its reach to other countries. Fangamer has already started to explore opportunities in Canada and the UK, and it plans to continue this expansion in the coming years.
In addition to these growth initiatives, Fangamer is also investing in technology to support its expansion. The company is developing a new e-commerce platform that will provide a more seamless shopping experience for customers and improve the efficiency of its operations. This platform will also allow Fangamer to better track customer data and personalize its marketing efforts, which will be critical in attracting new customers and retaining existing ones.
Overall, Fangamer’s plans for expansion and growth are ambitious, but the company is well-positioned to succeed. With a strong brand, a loyal customer base, and a commitment to innovation, Fangamer is poised to continue its success in the gaming merchandise market and beyond.
What’s Next for Fangamer? A Sneak Peek into the Company’s Future Plans
Fangamer has always been at the forefront of the gaming industry, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. With a track record of success and a passionate community of fans, the company is poised for continued growth and innovation. Here’s a sneak peek into what’s next for Fangamer:
Expansion into New Markets
Fangamer has its sights set on expanding into new markets, both domestically and internationally. The company is exploring opportunities to bring its unique brand of gaming merchandise to new audiences, while also diversifying its product offerings to better serve its existing customer base.
Focus on Sustainability
In addition to its growth plans, Fangamer is also placing a greater emphasis on sustainability. The company is committed to reducing its environmental impact by using eco-friendly materials and production methods, and is exploring ways to incorporate sustainability into its product design.
Investment in Technology
Finally, Fangamer is investing heavily in technology to enhance the customer experience and streamline its operations. The company is developing new software tools to improve inventory management and order fulfillment, while also exploring the use of augmented reality to enhance the shopping experience for customers.
Overall, the future of Fangamer looks bright, with exciting new opportunities on the horizon. Whether you’re a fan of the company’s products or simply interested in the gaming industry, there’s never been a better time to be a part of the Fangamer community.
FAQs
1. Who founded Fangamer?
Fangamer was founded by two childhood friends, Dan Fegetes and Kris Kittscher, in 2009. They both had a passion for video games and a desire to create a company that would allow them to share their love for the industry with others.
2. What does Fangamer do?
Fangamer is a video game merchandise company that specializes in creating unique and high-quality products based on popular video game franchises. They offer a wide range of merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, hoodies, and more.
3. Where is Fangamer based?
Fangamer is based in Los Angeles, California. However, they have a global reach and ship their products to customers all over the world.
4. Is Fangamer still in business?
Yes, Fangamer is still in business and continues to be a popular destination for video game fans looking to purchase unique and high-quality merchandise.
5. Who is the current owner of Fangamer?
Fangamer is owned by its founders, Dan Fegetes and Kris Kittscher. They have been running the company together since its inception in 2009 and continue to be actively involved in its day-to-day operations.
6. How has Fangamer evolved over the years?
Since its founding in 2009, Fangamer has grown and evolved significantly. They have expanded their product line to include a wider range of merchandise, partnered with more video game franchises, and built a loyal customer base. They have also established themselves as a leader in the video game merchandise industry and have been recognized for their unique and high-quality products.