Maintaining and creating a fan site is a hard job that only a true fan of the game would attempt to try. It takes a passion for the game and dedication to create the ultimate fan site. In this article, I will help you find the tools to get you started on your way to creating your own gaming site.
Web Hosting
Finding the perfect web host is not always easy, especially if you plan on putting up downloads on your site. Hosts give a certain amount of web space, but most do not give you unlimited bandwidth. Things to check for when picking a web host, include how you upload your pages, bandwidth, disk space, cost, and if you have to ads on your pages.
HTML Editors
You will need an HTML editor to create your pages, if your host does not have an online page creation tool. You don't have to know HTML; you can use a WYSIWYG editor.
Graphics
Not all of us can be graphically talented. There are many free clip art, create your own banner, and theme sets websites out there. If you are up for a challenge, you should try making your own. Some hosting sites provide you with some universal graphics. But, who wants to use the same guestbook graphic as everyone on that web hosting service.
Content
What are you going to offer on your site? News, downloads, strategy? Whatever it is, make sure it is unique. To get repeat visitors, it is vital that you have original content. Visitors want to see something that only you can provide. Why go to your site when a bigger popular site provides the same. Remember: Everyone has something to offer including you.
Web Site Promotion
Ways to promote your site includes webrings, exchange links, search engines, free for all links, and joining top sites lists. These are definitely not the only ways, but some methods to get you started. Also remember, to ask to exchange links with other sites that cover the same game as you. It is also a good idea to post in forums about your game with the link to your site in your signature.
