Deconstructor of Fun

The boys-only episode talks about layoffs sweeping through top Swedish studios before diving into yet another round of Xbox layoffs. In this episode, we also cover Apple's ongoing cat-and-mouse game with the EU's DMA rules and unpack the critical difference between private equity and venture capital in gaming. The crew analyzes the early flop of Marvel Mystic Mayhem before talking about how Splitgate 2 is already struggling to justify its existence.02:36 Sweden's Gaming Industry Layoffs05:22 Gamescom Events Preview06:13 Microsoft Layoffs and Xbox Strategy13:29 Apple's Response to the DMA21:59 Private Equity vs. Venture Capital in Gaming32:41 Eve Online: Myth vs. Reality34:02 Uma Musume Pretty Derby's US Launch36:42 Marvel Mystic Mayhem's Struggles42:55 Rainbow Six Siege: A Decade of Success47:47 Splitgate 2: The Rise and Fall56:25 The Harsh Realities of the Gaming Market01:00:58 Up Next

In this episode, I sit down with Sophie Vo, studio founder, podcast host, and now the creator of Orin Retreats, to unpack why she walked away from the startup rat race to build something intentionally small, sustainable, and soul-aligned. We talk about the version of success that nearly broke her, why the VC model fails most founders, and how depth, not scale, became her new metric for impact. If you've ever questioned the path you're on, this conversation might just reframe what “winning” really looks like.00:00 Redefining Success05:47 The VC Dilemma12:48 Navigating Co-Founder Dynamics18:32 Bootstrapping vs. Venture Capital: A Founder's Perspective24:16 The AI Coaching Experience29:52 Creating Human Connection in a Digital World39:25 The Roots of Distrust Among Women42:00 Navigating Female Networks and Support46:45 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership52:11 The Role of Coaching in Personal Growth56:37 Advice and Insights from the Journey

We discuss Believer's potential survivor, the layoffs at Mind's Eye, and Netflix's surprising decision to axe key mobile titles. But the real meat is Supercell: what the hell is going on in Helsinki? From performance stagnation to communication silence, we unpack the company's evolving strategy—or lack thereof.Also on deck: Riot's dev woes, Microsoft's muddled Xbox strategy, and what YouTube's 20th anniversary tells us about the future of game content. We wrap with a look at emerging trends in mobile and Steam that could define the back half of 2025.02:13 Shills02:57 Meta Marketing Summit Experience07:41 Gamescom09:58 Believer Startup Update10:52 Mind's Eye Layoffs12:17 Netflix Mobile Games Removal16:49 Supercell's Strategy and Performance31:51 Supercell's Communication Strategy36:05 YouTube's 20th Anniversary and Gaming Highlights38:12 Riot Games' Development Challenges43:17 Microsoft's Xbox Strategy Critique52:58 Emerging Trends in Mobile and Steam Games

From Niantic's $3.5B sale of Pokémon GO to Scopely, to the rise of SLAP, a fast-paced, IRL multiplayer game that blends social tagging with viral video content Jen Donahoe and Lauren Steidl, CEO and co-founder of Integrated Reality Labs, explore how geogames are evolving from novelty apps into a new genre of play.Why Pokémon GO showed both the power and the limits of GPS gamingThe tech leap making real-world multiplayer actually workSLAP's breakout performance—10 sessions/day, no paid UAHow TikTok culture is shaping the next generation of mobile gameplayWhy the future of mobile gaming may lie in neighborhoods, not screens

We start with a massive Switch 2 record-breaking pre-launch momentum and what it signals for Nintendo's comeback strategy. Then it's on to Tencent's rumored bid for Nexon that could reshape the Korean gaming landscape.Candy Crush OGs jump back into the game as we unpack the shock closures (RIP Believer), restructures (Warner Bros Games), and slowdowns (Bungie's Marathon, Build a Rocket Boy). Plus: Mobile Gaming Trends 2025, Remedy's mysterious new drop, and why Kingshot might be the next game to watch.Sharp, unsentimental, and essential, just how you like it.Appsflyer State of Creative Optimization: shorturl.at/MjaizTimestamps02:54 – Saltwater Fish Tank Update04:02 – Shilling and Blog Highlights07:56 – Mobile Gaming Trends 202513:35 – Not E3 Events Recap19:12 – Switch 2 Record-Breaking Launch27:00 – Tencent's Potential Nexon Acquisition29:26 – Korean Gaming Industry Insights30:42 – Western Capital in Eastern Markets32:01 – Stellar Blade's Success on Steam35:07 – Candy Crush Veterans' New Venture36:42 – Nice Plans Studio's Funding Round38:05 – Warner Bros. Game Restructure39:36 – Believer's Shutdown42:17 – Build a Rocket Boy's Struggles49:31 – Bungie's Marathon Delay50:18 – Remedy's New Release56:13 – King Shot's RiseSubscribe, rate, and tell a friend who's still waiting on the Marathon beta.In this podcast, the group shares **game dev** secrets and **game design** insights from working in the industry. They also discuss the realities of **game development**, covering everything from the highs to the lows, and provide a **reaction video** to specific scenarios that can happen. The discussion also includes stories from **indie game dev** studios.

Mishka Katkoff talks with George Ng, co-founder and CTO of GGWP, about the real AI crisis in gaming—and it's not what you think.From manipulative personalization to privacy nightmares, we unpack how AI is already reshaping development, monetization, and the player experience. George breaks down the tech behind the buzz, the moral minefields, and whether AI will elevate creativity or just flood the market with noise.Topics: • AI as a tool—or a trap—for player engagement • The shifting role of creatives in an AI-driven dev pipeline • Procedural generation, NPCs, and the illusion of emotion • Why the biggest threat isn't bad AI—it's good AI used badlyConnect with George on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/georgeng/Sponsored by: AppCharge, Sensor Tower, Want to work with us? Reach out: consulting@deconstructoffun.com00:32 - Ethical concerns: AI personalization, monetization & manipulation03:17 - AI bias and fairness in moderation07:33 - How AI impacts game development & team structure11:03 - Where AI's impact is most significant: narrative design?13:01 - The future of autonomous NPCs & emotional attachment16:39 - Procedural generation: Can AI replace human designers?21:07 - Market trends: AI, copycats, and the “bull vs. bear” case34:51 - Fully AI-generated games: who needs them?42:45 - The future of AI in game development

Habby has a new surprise launch that may push the publisher to $1B ARR. Apple somehow does worse than Game Center 2.0, while Xbox delivers a near swan song. Did we mention LARS IS GONE FROM EMBRACER? Eric vows a commitment of swear-free chastity, while Jen and Phil remind him of his true podcast self.03:33 Off the Record in LA05:27 Phil's Singapore Experience07:28 Dune Awakening and Game of Thrones Kings Road09:14 Off the Record Event Highlights12:53 Embracer CEO Shakeup15:55 Unity CTO Resignation17:28 Xbox Showcase Disappointment21:29 Xbox Handheld Announcement24:51 Call of Duty Marketing Concerns29:52 Fun Plus and the Pokémon MMO34:45 Summer Games Fest Highlights36:30 Nintendo Switch 2 and Third-Party Challenges40:20 Apple's New Gaming App46:59 Tim Sweeney's Explosive Interview50:52 New Marvel Games Announced53:01 Whittle Defender's Surprising Launch53:52 Habi's Success and Future Prospects56:19 Art Style Shifts in Midcore Games

Mishka Katkoff sits down with Carla Rylands—external development expert, XDS Advisory Committee Chair, and consultant for XDS Spark—to dive deep into the 2024 XDS Insights Report.In this episode:Key trends in external development, co-development, and industry shifts following the pandemic. The growing role of AI in game development: how publishers and service providers are using (or not using) AI. Budget trends, rates, and the business realities facing external studios. Why publishers are sticking with trusted partners and the importance of security, flexibility, and due diligence https://xdsummit.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlarylance/https://deconstructoroffun.com/slackTimestamps:00:00 – Intro & technical mishaps02:00 – What is the XDS Insights Report?06:00 – Trends in external development & co-dev15:00 – Budgets, rates, and industry shifts25:00 – The rise of AI in game development35:00 – Security, trust, and partner selection45:00 – Q&A and closing thoughts#ExternalDevelopment #XDS #Podcast #GameIndustry #AI #CoDevelopment

The crew dives into a jam-packed week of industry news from Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 launch to Epic's evolving Store strategy. We unpack the growing importance of social features in games and the buzz around the new D&D project from the Star Wars Jedi director. Meanwhile, Elden Ring's Night Reign expansion proves brutally satisfying, while Zynga quietly shuts down the studio behind Torchlight. We also tackle Activision's tone-deaf in-game ads and finish with a sharp Philosophy Corner: why do so many AAA green lights go wrong—and what game dev processes desperately need fixing? Don't miss it.03:46 Pride Month Reflections05:14 Personal Updates06:18 Rants and Industry Insights09:31 LA Event Announcement11:32 RIP Sims Co-Creator Tim Luo12:58 Switch 2 Launch18:32 Epic Games Unreal + Game Store22:36 Social Features and Competition25:10 Star Wars Jedi Director's New D&D Game27:12 Elden Ring Night Reign: A Tough but Rewarding Experience31:42 Zynga Shuts Down Torchlight Developer33:09 Activision's Controversial In-Game Ads35:28 The Problem with AAA Green Lights41:02 The Need for Better Game Development Processes

State of Gaming report: https://tinyurl.com/5eyye63dIn this episode, Mishka Katkoff sits down with Sensor Tower gaming insights analyst Sam Aune to dissect the state of mobile gaming in 2025. They unpack download trends, the evolving UA playbook, the hybrid casual boom, and shifting genre engagement. The conversation dives into emerging markets, how ads really impact player behavior, and what Gen Z expects from modern mobile games. Backed by fresh Sensor Tower data, Aune breaks down where the biggest opportunities—and pitfalls—lie for today's game makers.02:10 Current Trends in Mobile Gaming Downloads05:12 User Acquisition and Monetization Strategies07:45 Engagement Trends in Game Genres11:31 The Rise of Hybrid Casual Games16:49 Emerging Markets and Growth Opportunities23:39 Revenue Trends Across Game Genres27:36 Balancing Niche and Audience Size30:59 The Decline of New Game Releases31:56 Understanding Gen Z Players35:38 Gender Targeting in Game Development41:55 The Role of IP in Game Success45:04 Market Concentration and Expansion Strategies

In this episode, Deconstructor of Fun's Mishka Katkoff sits down with Thibault de Vésinne-Larüe, VP of Core Gaming at Voodoo, to unpack one of the industry's most ruthless yet successful publishing machines. How does Voodoo test 2,000 prototypes a year? What separates great studios from the rest? Why do most games get killed — and how do you know which ones to bet on? If you're serious about understanding hybrid-casual publishing, this is required listening.00:40 Characteristics of Top Performing Teams04:31 Prototyping Process and Metrics22:03 Soft Launch and Monetization25:31 Shift from Ads to In-App Purchases28:17 Scaling Game Development Teams31:49 Structuring Partnerships with Developers40:53 Common Mistakes in Game Development46:39 Breaking into Voodoo's Ecosystem48:48 Conclusion and Future Goals

With Michail out, and definitely not living a jetset life, Jen, Eric, Adam, and Phil huddle around the WWDC campfire to tell tales of Game Center. There's a big change to Battlefield that threatens the franchise, while Delta Force rises as a threat to the East. Split Gate 2? Not so much. Jen defends Apple, marketing, and transmedia, all in one, while Adam claims a Marvel Rival bet and claps for the French. Eric certainly isn't clapping for Game Pass and Doom, while Phil tries to Grow a Garden.02:19 Rumors and Updates in the Gaming Industry03:13 AI Kick-Off07:32 TV Campaigns and Marketing Strategies10:45 Off the Record Event and Industry Networking16:54 Apple's 30% Fee and Game Center 2.025:10 Ubisoft's Legal Troubles and Workplace Culture27:10 Jade Raymond's Career Moves28:26 Breaking News: EA Shuts Down Black Panther Game31:19 Expedition 33: A Small Team's Big Success33:24 Doom the Dark Age: Game Pass Impact34:57 Game Pass Debate: Success or Failure?43:18 Splitgate 2: Struggling to Gain Traction46:26 Fortnite iOS Relaunch: Lukewarm?51:40 Battlefield 659:44 Roblox's Grow a Garden

Michail Katkoff and Rhys Elliott break down the widening gap between legacy studios bogged down by process and fresh teams building with urgency. From the slow death of bloated AAA games to the shaky economics of Game Pass, they explore why shorter, more creative games are winning hearts—and why team quality now matters more than genre. Plus: why subscription models are struggling, and how devices like Switch 2 and Steam Deck might reshape portable play.Rhys Elliotwww.linkedin.com/in/rhyselliott/Alinea Analyticswww.alineaanalytics.com00:00 Introduction and Background04:52 Fat Cats vs. Hungry Cats22:05 Evaluating Game Development Teams24:36 Investment Principles in Startup Life26:31 The Shift from AAA to AA Games33:25 The Demand for Shorter Games39:45 The Challenges of Subscription Gaming49:04 The Future of Game Pass and Subscription Models53:35 The State of Subscription Services55:50 Live Services vs. Premium Games66:20 The Future of Portable Gaming

The BIG stories: 1. Finland's game awards controversy (yes, it's messier than you think)2. Epic's endless courtroom war with Apple 3. Supercell's dual bet on transmedia and AI. The team also breaks down the implications of ChatGPT infiltrating development workflows, the battle brewing in the Solitaire segment, and what Roblox's new in-game shopping means for UGC economies. Add in Take-Two's financials and some spicy predictions on AI's workplace takeover—and you've got a packed episode that hits strategy, creativity, and the future of the industry in one fatality-worthy sequence.02:29 Industry News Highlights04:24 Meta Horizon Worlds and Game Development Insights05:25 Podcast and Blog Updates07:00 Dreams TV Campaign Analysis09:32 Finn Game Awards Controversy13:36 Epic Games vs. Apple: A Legal Battle21:45 Supercell's Transmedia Ventures29:03 Supercell's AI Initiatives29:55 AI's Impact on the Workplace30:34 ChatGPT in Game Development32:00 The Future of AI in Gaming41:23 Solitaire Market Shake-Up45:15 Take-Two's Financial Overview53:41 Roblox's New In-Game Shopping01:00:57 Conclusion and Outro

We are joined by George Ng, co-founder and CTO of GGWP, to dive deep into the world of bots in gaming. We explore the differences between game-created bots and player-created bots, the cat-and-mouse game of detecting and preventing bots, and regional differences in bot usage. We also look ahead at the evolving landscape of bots in gaming and discuss strategies that studios can adopt to stay ahead. 01:09 The Impact of Bots on Player Experience13:21 Regional Trends in Bot Usage14:57 The Future of Bots in Gaming20:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Why are seasoned PMs, growth leads, and designers ditching games for fintech, wellness, or even dating apps? What do these companies see in game industry vets—and what blind spots do they have?In this episode, Mishka Katkoff talks with executive headhunter Gerard Miles about one of the most underreported shifts in tech: gaming talent is migrating to the app world. 03:14 Understanding Talent Migration and Skill Sets12:20 Engagement and User Experience in Apps18:17 The Future of Gaming and Consumer Apps31:07 The Evolution of Game Marketing Strategies37:04 Cultural Differences Between Game and App Industries56:41 Career Transitioning: From Gaming to Broader App Ecosystem 01:03:47 The Future of Gaming Professionals in Diverse Sectors

The team reacts to this year's World Video Game Hall of Fame inductees and unpacks Triple Dot's surprising acquisition of AppLovin's mobile games business—what does it signal for the midcore M&A market? With public gaming companies hitting all-time highs, we discuss whether this is a sustainable trend or a short-term sugar high. Supercell's major Squadbusters revamp gets the DoF treatment, and we debate Nintendo's cautious forecasts in light of its market position. Rounding things out, we analyze Microsoft's strategic shifts post-console wars and what the completed Activision deal actually changes for the ecosystem. Packed episode. Big takes. No filler.02:43 Hobby Updates and Banter05:06 Dream Games TV Campaign Analysis06:40 Interview with Mike Quigley07:29 Prize Picks and Predictive Markets17:37 World Video Game Hall of Fame Inductees20:38 Triple Dot Acquires AppLovin's Mobile Game Business30:03 Publicly Traded Gaming Companies at All-Time Highs36:03 Supercell & Squadbusters Revamp50:48 Nintendo's Conservative Forecast 54:16 Microsoft's Strategic Shift and Console Market Impact56:58 The Activision Deal and Its Implications01:02:23 Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Mishka Katkoff interviews Aaron Thandi, Chief Commercial Officer at Mistplay, discussing the innovative approaches to loyalty-driven user acquisition and retention in the mobile gaming industry. They explore how Mistplay has established itself as a leader in rewarded engagement, the importance of personalized user experiences, and the strategic methods behind their global expansion. The conversation also delves into the role of AI in enhancing user engagement and the future opportunities for growth in emerging markets.Get the AppsFlyer Creative Report: https://shorturl.at/Mjaiz00:00 Introduction to Misplay and Its Market Position04:11 Understanding Loyalty and Reward Systems08:02 User Acquisition and Retention Strategies10:52 Game Catalog and User Engagement14:26 Geographic Expansion and Market Localization17:32 Future Roadmap and Innovations20:15 Building Strong Developer Relationships23:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion33:14 Work with DoF!

Can someone really grow from 3D artist to GM of a billion-dollar title — without switching companies, logos, or careers? SciPlay's Justin McFarlane did just that, and his story is a masterclass in product-first leadership and long-term growth.03:48 Navigating Remote Work Challenges and Team Engagement07:10 Making Tough Decisions: Prioritizing Team Cohesion15:56 Transitioning Teams: Managing Relocation and Operations19:05 The Importance of Listening in Leadership27:57 From Artist to General Manager: Career Growth Insights39:09 The Importance of Purpose in Work45:22 Understanding LiveOps: The Key to Success56:06 Balancing LiveOps and New Game Development

Get the AppsFlyer Creative Report: https://shorturl.at/MjaizThe crew jumps into a galaxy of transmedia takes with May the Fourth and how IPs stretch across games, shows, and beyond—sometimes elegantly, sometimes painfully. We dissect the long-awaited GTA 6 trailer and release window, then shift gears into Dream Games' latest raise and what it says about Turkey's still-thriving gaming ecosystem. The team breaks down Super League's acquisition of Super Social and digs into Roblox's beast-mode growth metrics and smart (if aggressive) pricing strategies. There's love for Expedition 33, curiosity around Overwatch's new stadium mode, and a sharp look at the Epic vs. Apple legal saga—culminating in a bold discussion on the future of app store economics and a tip of the hat to the ever-controversial Tim Sweeney.02:13 May the Fourth and Transmedia18:18 GTA 6 Trailer and Release Date23:03 Dream Games Investment and Turkey's Gaming Ecosystem32:35 Super League Acquires Super Social34:13 Roblox's Impressive Growth Metrics39:08 Roblox's Pricing Strategies43:43 Expedition 33's Success Story47:07 Overwatch's New Stadium Mode50:43 Epic Games vs. Apple: The Legal Battle55:57 The Future of App Store Economics01:09:31 Thank You, Tim Sweeney

In this emergency podcast episode, Mishka Katkoff and Maor Sason, CEO and co-founder of AppCharge, discuss the implications of the recent Epic vs. Apple ruling, which allows developers to link to external payment methods. They explore the potential benefits for small to medium-sized studios, the strategies larger publishers can adopt, and the importance of building customer relationships through loyalty programs. The conversation emphasizes the need for developers to act quickly and adapt to the changing landscape of mobile gaming and payment methods.00:00 Introduction to the Emergency Podcast05:41 The Impact of the Epic vs. Apple Ruling12:35 Strategies for Developers Post-Ruling19:39 Long-Term Considerations for Developers27:41 Building Customer Relationships and Loyalty Programs

We start where we ended last week: the $50M Royal Match campaign and the issue of overspending. Then it's all about Discord's new CEO and how that signals a potential pivot toward enterprise, ending the platform's gaming-first DNA.Then, the crew covers NetEase's sudden executive shakeup and the surprising Delta Force vs. Call of Duty Mobile battle before unpacking Blizzard's Nexon partnership in Korea. We cap it off with an explanation on why VCs are suddenly frothing over AI in gaming. 02:39 MAU Event and Fireside Chat04:15 Royal Match Campaign Follow-up19:53 Discord's New CEO and Future29:26 NetEase Executive Departures33:19 AI in Gaming Venture Capital37:12 Delta Force vs. Call of Duty Mobile41:08 Blizzard's Publishing Strategy: Nexon Partnership46:34 The Impact of Distribution Duopoly on Gaming53:35 The Future of Game Distribution and Innovation01:02:55 Web Shops and the Changing Revenue Landscape

Alexei Chemenda, CEO and co-founder of Poolday.ai, discusses how AI enables marketers to focus on strategy and storytelling. Discover the future of personalized video ads, the evolving role of A/B testing, and the importance of combining creative and analytical skills in marketing. 00:00 Introduction: Misconceptions About AI in Marketing01:53 Revolutionizing Ad Creation with AI02:53 Personalization and Creative Control04:15 Continuous Creative Cycle04:37 AI in Gaming and Brand Marketing09:22 Balancing Volume and Quality in AI-Driven Marketing16:37 Predictive Analytics and Data Fluency20:19 Future Skills for Marketing Leaders23:13 Enhancing Human Creativity with AI25:22 Conclusion and Contact Information

Mishka Katkoff sits down with Uri Marchand, CEO of Overwolf, to break down how user-generated content (UGC) is quietly reshaping the gaming industry. They dive into Overwolf's mission to turn in-game creation into a viable profession, and why modding — once a hobby for the few — is now a legitimate career path for thousands.This isn't just about mods anymore — it's about the future of gaming economies.00:00Introduction to Overwolf and UGC04:05 The Evolution of Modding in Gaming06:56 Industry Trends: Embracing UGC10:05 Challenges and Opportunities in Modding13:17 The Role of Platforms like Roblox and Fortnite16:32 Balancing Creator Support and Developer Benefits19:37 Sustainability of the Modding Economy22:23 Revenue Share Models in the Creator Economy25:34 The Impact of AI on Modding29:14 The Power of AI in Game Development30:15 Democratizing Game Creation31:01 Challenges in Scaling Overwolf33:51 Overcoming Investment Hurdles37:41 The Future of Overwolf and Gaming43:24 Innovations in User-Generated Content45:39 Changing Mindsets on Premium Mods48:17 Disruption in the Gaming Industry52:09 Lessons Learned from Overwolf's Journey

 The crew unpacks a week of spicy news and strategic contradictions, starting with Supercell's latest investments and how VC incentives often clash with long-term game building. We weigh in on GamesBeat's move to independence, the ongoing esports funding debate, and whether Netflix's Rebel Moon game is a flex or a fumble. Valorant Mobile's China launch signals Riot's next big move, while Tencent continues to dominate with titles like Gunfight King. The team dives into Disney's Solitaire push, Habby's intriguing new soft launch, and the return of Royal Kingdom's celebrity-fueled ad campaign—capped off by a heated debate: do TV ads still move the needle for mobile games, or are we watching legacy marketing die in real time?01:56 Industry News Highlights02:47 Supercell Investments Analysis05:35 VC Contradictions and Incentives17:43 GamesBeat Independence20:17 Esports Investment22:31 Oblivion24:15 Netflix's Rebel Moon Game31:00 Valorant Mobile Launch in China32:36 Gunfight King and Tencent's Gaming Dominance33:19 Disney Solitaire40:00 Habby's New Game in Soft Launch46:33 Royal Kingdom's Celebrity Ad Campaign48:44 Debating the Effectiveness of TV Ads for Mobile Games01:06:53 Concluding Thoughts on Marketing Strategies

Lightspeed's Moritz Baier-Lentz joins us for a no-holds-barred conversation on venture capital, gaming, and the inner workings of multi-billion-dollar venture funds. No fluff—just real talk about fund math, spotting exceptional founders, the future of AI in gaming, and why most investments won't work out (and why that's okay).00:00 from pro-gamer in Diablo II to Goldman Sachs to Lightspeed VC10:00 The Lightspeed model18:00 How Moritz spots truly exceptional founders (hint: not a checklist)24:00 Fund math 10130:00 Studio investing vs. tech investing in games 36:00 How consolidation is reshaping gaming M&A (and why it's a big deal)43:00 Speedrun, a16z's gaming accelerator: innovation or red flag?51:00 Debunking big VC myths58:00 The future of gaming: AI, generative content, and creating the next Roblox1:05:00 How Lightspeed wins competitive deals—and what founders should ask VCs1:12:00 Is raising VC money harder now? Yes. But here's why it's still a golden era.1:20:00 Final thoughts: investing at the edge of what's possible

Kress is fresh back from Turkiye, sharing on-the-ground insights before diving headfirst into the week's big beats. We break down Epic Games Store's revenue, debate the Minecraft movie's potential for franchise dominance, and unpack the latest M&A and investment trends shaping gaming's future. Inflation's creeping impact on game pricing gets a hard look, while the crew wrestles with the evolving MTX and revenue models. Things heat up with Marvel Rivals throwing punches at Overwatch, a sharp take on Western vs. Eastern LiveOps strategies, and a no-holds-barred discussion about Bungie's Marathon pivot into extraction shooters. To wrap, a quick (and slightly roasted) look at Kingdom's celebrity-packed ad campaign.00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions03:09 Chris' Insights from Turkey07:02 Epic Games Store Revenue Discussion13:30 Minecraft Movie and Franchise Management21:07 M&A and Investment Trends in Gaming29:47 Game Pricing and Inflation30:31 MTX and Revenue Models32:59 Marvel Rivals vs. Overwatch37:33 Western vs. Eastern LiveOps44:24 Marathon: The Extraction Shooter58:13 Kingdom's Celebrity Ad Campaign

In this episode of Deconstructor of Fun, Jen Donahoe is by Charles Hambro, CEO and Co-Founder of GEEIQ, and Matt Edelman, President and CEO of Super League, to dive deep into the evolving world of brand activations and UGC (user-generated content) in gaming. We explore how brands navigate virtual worlds, the ROI of successful campaigns, and why gaming audiences are more valuable than ever. The conversation spans the rise of playable ads, IAB standards, and the growing distinction between branded content and traditional ads. Charles and Matt also share their insights on the future of campaign-based activations and why entertainment brands are doubling down on gaming. 00:00 Introduction to Brand and UGC Activations04:57 UGC and Virtual Worlds07:44 Brand Activations15:47 ROI and Success Stories21:02 Challenges and Future of UGC Platforms27:12 The Power of Gaming Audiences27:45 Mobile Advertising29:00 Playable Ads29:42 IAB and Playable Ad Standards31:34 Engaging Audiences with Playable Ads35:49 Branded Content vs. Traditional Ads36:41 The Future of Branded Content in Gaming42:40 The Importance of Campaign-Based Activations44:47 Entertainment Brands in Gaming46:59 Concluding Thoughts and Future Trends

In this week's episode of This Week in Games, we're joined by special guest Chris Sides for a jam-packed conversation covering everything from transmedia storytelling to the latest moves in the gaming industry. We dive into the surprising momentum behind the Minecraft movie, explore Gen Z trends and market predictions, and unpack Netflix's bold push into interactive fiction. Plus, we break down A16Z's new Speed Run initiative, take a close look at Supercell's evolving investment strategy, and compare War Robots to the newly launched Steel Hunters. 00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions01:58 Special Guest Chris and His Background02:49 Transmedia and Pop Culture Discussion03:48 Industry Updates and News07:03 Podcast Highlights and Recent Episodes09:21 Minecraft Movie Success16:54 Gen Z and Market Predictions20:48 Netflix's Interactive Fiction Strategy28:44 Speed Run Initiative by A16Z30:22 Supercell's Investment Strategy31:19 Supercell's Investment Philosophy32:54 Supercell's Investment History and Performance43:14 Blueprints: The Best Rated Game of 202549:21 RE's Latest Deck Recap53:36 Steel Hunters: Early Access and Unreal Engine01:03:02 War Robots vs. Steel Hunters01:05:02 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode, Deconstructor of Fun's Michail Katkoff sits down with Tobias Knoke — long-time Googler, gaming industry expert, and Gen Z whisperer — to unpack what game developers need to know right now about the fastest-growing and most misunderstood audience in gaming.

GDC's over, but the takes are still hot. Eric Kress recaps the chaos and questions Dark Legion's staying power, while Phil gives the Game Craft boys a well-deserved nod. Then it's Switch 2 speculation time: is Nintendo finally back in the power game? Meanwhile, Roblox cozies up to Google for rewarded ads—what does that mean for the ecosystem? Meanwhile, AppLovin fights off short seller heat while asserting market dominance. Plus, Tencent's playing the long game with Ubisoft, again—no surprise, but lots to unpack.02:12 GDC Highlights and Dark Legion Update03:18 Game Craft Podcast05:27 CEO Interviews and App Charge Partnership07:31 GDC Attendance and Dark Legion Performance15:58 Switch 2 Announcement23:26 Roblox Rewarded Ads and Google Partnership31:54 AppLovin's Short Seller Allegations36:17 Hedge Fund Hotels and Market Dynamics36:36 AppLovin Market Dominance38:49 Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Acquisition43:57 Supercell's New Game: First Impressions53:22 Ubisoft's $1.25 Billion Tencent Deal01:05:36 Tencent's Long Game and Market Strategy 

What makes the company a great place to work? We discuss the significance of company culture, leadership evolution, and the vital role of customer obsession with AppsFlyer's CEO and co-founder, Oren Kaniel. Oren shares his entrepreneurial journey, how the company overcame early financial challenges, and the importance of remaining innovative and passionate. Additionally, we explore AI's role in the future of business, balancing data privacy with technological advancements, and the grand vision for AppsFlyer's continued growth and impact.02:44 Building a Company Culture06:33 The Importance of Customer Obsession15:24 Challenges and Early Days of the Startup20:15 Navigating Growth and Scaling Up25:06 Hiring and Nurturing Talent42:15 Transparency vs. Clarity in Leadership44:02 Innovative Solutions for Business Growth56:39 The Role of AI in Business Transformation01:05:47 Building a Sustainable Business Ecosystem01:15:20 Future Prospects and Innovations

Josh Wilson, CEO of SciPlay, returns to the podcast for the third time to discuss key topics such as the significance of Q5, the challenges of app store reliance, the stalled growth in the gaming market, the emergence of hybrid casualization, and the role of AI in gaming.Subscribe to the Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeContinue the conversation on our Slack channel: www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack00:00 Introduction and Previous Conversations03:28 Understanding Q5 and Its Impact on Gaming12:38 Navigating App Store Reliance and Customer Ownership21:46 Stalled Growth in the Gaming Market31:24 Customer Retention as a Business Strategy37:44 Embracing Change and Innovation40:55 The Shift to Hybrid Casual Gaming55:15 The Role of AI in Gaming01:09:02 Future Skills in a Changing Landscape

Eric speedruns through an a16z correction, while Phil can't wrap his head around Funplus' new 4x Dark Legion thesis. Adam tells us Netease's Fragpunk is dead, and Jen tells us games journalism is alive. Against all odds, Netflix Games records its first positive segment. And did you hear that? It's the inZOI train CHUGGin'.Subscribe to the Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter:www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeContinue the conversation on our Slack channel:www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack02:16 Post-GDC Debriefing09:35 A16Z Speed Run13:48 Game Journalism is Back!!17:08 Nintendo Direct and Switch 2 Rumors18:41 MOBA Shutdowns and VC Funded Games25:15 FunPlus and Dark Legion31:00 DC Comics in Gaming: Challenges and Failures35:03 The Future of 4X Strategy Games37:18 Marvel Rivals and Rag Punk Analysis56:27 Netflix's Gaming Strategy

The rowdy and tired DoF crew closed down their GDC with a live TWIG show at Moscone Center. Tune in!Chapters:02:47 Kickoff03:15 GDC Vibe Check06:30 Industry Sentiment and Challenges21:20 Emerging Markets and New Game Development22:26 A16Z Speed Run and Industry Shifts26:21 Funding Trends and Credit Lines27:40 Absurd Ideas and Rumors31:00 Supercell's MoCo Launch33:53 Embracing Experimentation in Gaming38:31 Absurd Compensation Packages in the US43:28 The Future of AA and Indie Game Funding46:57 Highlights from Recent Gaming Events51:55 Impact of the Podcast on Careers01:02:54 The Rise of Apps and AI in Mobile Gaming01:05:05 VCs, Ad Tech, and Online Gambling01:07:41 Closing Remarks and Thank Yous

Alexei Chemenda, CEO and co-founder of Poolday.ai, discusses how AI enables marketers to focus on strategy and storytelling. Discover the future of personalized video ads, the evolving role of A/B testing, and the importance of combining creative and analytical skills in marketing. 00:00 Introduction: Misconceptions About AI in Marketing01:53 Revolutionizing Ad Creation with AI02:53 Personalization and Creative Control04:15 Continuous Creative Cycle04:37 AI in Gaming and Brand Marketing09:22 Balancing Volume and Quality in AI-Driven Marketing16:37 Predictive Analytics and Data Fluency20:19 Future Skills for Marketing Leaders23:13 Enhancing Human Creativity with AI25:22 Conclusion and Contact Information

Marion Balinoff and Sara Guerola share data-driven strategies for maximizing influencer marketing in gaming. As CPIs rise and privacy regulations evolve, influencer marketing is becoming a key performance channel. Marion and Sara break down budget calculations, track organic uplift, and analyze campaign performance while highlighting tactics like QR codes, giveaways, and custom in-game assets to boost conversions. Whether you're testing with smaller creators or scaling with top-tier influencers, this episode provides a strategic framework for driving profitable results.00:00 Introduction to Influencer and Podcast Marketing02:56 Meet the Experts: Marion and Sarah04:33 Defining Influencer and Podcast Marketing08:16 Budgeting and Setting Objectives14:24 Measuring Campaign Performance23:58 Tracking Links and Performance Metrics24:35 Challenges in Getting Clicks25:08 Podcast Advertising Strategies27:21 Creative Performance Reports30:40 Influencer Integration in Games32:56 Effective Campaign Strategies34:45 Deep Integration Benefits38:11 Creative and Contract Tips42:57 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Mishka wrestles with the implications of AppLovin's Triple Dot acquisition, while Scopely's latest move has everyone questioning the future of Pokémon Go. Eric breaks down the latest insights from the Turkish gaming industry, while Jen dissects the Midia Research gamer segmentation report. Phil revisits the hypercasual ad playbook, while Subway Surfers just keeps running. Plus, a final look at GDC announcements, the mobile vs. console showdown, and what it all means for the industry.The Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter:www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeContinue the conversation on our Slack channel:www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack04:24 Turkish Gaming Industry Insights06:20 GDC Event Announcements09:16 Triple Dot and AppLovin Acquisition Analysis22:58 Midia Research Gamer Segmentation Report30:10 Social Elements in Gaming30:35 Mobile vs Console31:13 Farmville, Monopoly Go, and Female Gamers33:41 Subway Surfers34:23 The Hypercasual Ad Strategy41:12 Scopely's Acquisition of Niantic Games44:04 The Future of Pokemon Go53:50 Scopely's Strategy

www.skillz.com/developeraccelerator/We dive deep into the world of real-money skill-based gaming and the exciting new Developer Accelerator launched by Skills Inc. Our special guest, Andrew Paradise, CEO and co-founder of Skillz, sheds light on the potential and market opportunity within this rapidly growing industry, discussing what types of games and studios Skillz is looking to support. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:19 Skill-Based Mobile Games Accelerator04:09 Monetization and Market Strategy13:32 Retention and Engagement Metrics22:07 Skill-Based Gaming Market Insights25:36 Understanding Sweepstakes and Skill-Based Gaming26:17 Skill-Based Gaming Prizes and Competitions28:06 Future of Skill Gaming30:32 Expanding Game Genres and Market Reach32:57 Skill-Based Gaming on Different Platforms33:36 Addressing Bot Concerns in Skill Gaming37:43 Insights from the Startup Journey43:14 Challenges and Benefits of Going Public45:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The world-class panel of Turkish founders and investors with Mehmet Ecevit (ex-CEO and co-founder of Gram Games), Batuhan Celebi (CEO and co-founder of Grand Games), and Görkem Turk (founder of Laton Ventures) shares their thoughts on what makes the Turkish gaming ecosystem unique, the importance of data-driven design, and how to maintain company culture while scaling.THE HYBRIDCASUAL PLAYBOOK: https://metahybridcasualplaybook.splashthat.com/Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Guests00:30 Success Stories and Achievements03:31 Challenges and Strategies in Game Development09:14 Company Culture and Hiring Practices17:47 Scaling Companies and Future Prospects21:14 Insights on the Turkish Gaming Ecosystem31:07 Balancing Creativity and Data-Driven Decisions44:46 Balancing Internal and External Motivations45:56 Early Days and Scaling Merge Dragons47:25 The Impact of External Validation49:29 Cultural Differences in Handling Failure53:20 Challenges in the Turkish Gaming Industry01:07:32 The Importance of Mentorship and Partnerships01:24:22 Future of the Turkish Gaming Ecosystem01:30:43 Conclusion and Community Engagement

Eric tries his best to make sense of the AppLovin deal, while Monster Hunter Wilds has never made more sense. Laura covers Supercell's Lonely Island play, Boat Game, while Jen defends Disney IP as it STEPs it up in Japan. Phil wants a recount of Guitar Hero's demise, while Activision announces another entry in the franchise.The Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter:www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeContinue the conversation on our Slack channel:www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack00:00 Introduction and Hosts02:27 Today's Topics Overview03:01 Jen's UCLA Story04:00 GDC Announcements05:46 AppLovin's Short Seller Drama07:26 Steam's Record-Breaking Numbers08:32 AppLovin's Game Division Sale12:50 Sony's PlayStation VR 2 Price Drop13:55 Supercell and SpaceApe Updates17:15 Forte's Acquisition of Sealants18:06 Miniclip Acquires Lessmore18:38 Supercell's New Boat Game23:05 Supercell's Market Mismatch23:34 Roblox Comparison Debate24:06 Monetization Challenges25:01 Split Faction Reviews25:43 Fable Delayed Again26:44 Monster Hunter's Global Success31:29 Disney Step in Japan34:10 Scopely's Vanity Play39:06 Guitar Hero Mobile Announcement44:45 The Fall of Music Games46:52 Conclusion and Farewell

 “The way we survive is built on being creative every day” We sit down with Burak Vardal, CEO and co-founder of Rollic, to explore how the company skyrocketed in just a couple of years from a Turkish startup to one of the most successful mobile game publishers in the world.Burak shares insights on: The early days of Rollic and its quick acquisition by Zynga for $168M How they consistently launch hit mobile games The shift from hyper-casual to hybrid-casual and how it changed their business model Why being a gamer-first company is key to their success What makes Turkey a global hub for mobile game development The future of Rollic under Take-Two InteractiveDownload the FREE Hybrid Casual Playbook: metahybridcasualplaybook.splashthat.com/

To meet the Crew, check out our event in the weekly newsletter:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeThis week we examine Niantic's valuation and potential exit, questioning whether AR gaming has hit its ceiling. We also break down Unity's latest earnings, examining where the company is headed post-restructuring. Meanwhile, PrizePix blurs the lines between gaming and gambling, raising concerns about the future of real money mechanics.On the platform side, we analyze Hasbro Digital's unexpected success, Steam Deck's impact on the PC market, and whether Epic Game Store's strategy is finally paying off. We also explore GTA's massive UGC potential, Warner Bros studio closures, and dive into the return of Overwatch loot boxes—because what's old is new again.Finally, we look at the latest mobile trends, including Love and Deep Space's unique RPG take and the breakout success of Last War Survival. Oh, and of course, fake ads are still a thing.01:19 Star Wars03:36 Shilling and Advice06:48 Niantic's Valuation and Exit08:48 PrizePix and Gambling11:44 Hasbro Digital's Success16:04 Epic Game Store Analysis23:03 GTA and UGC Potential29:14 Steam Deck's Impact on the PC Market30:17 Unity's Earnings & Vector44:00 Warner Bros Studio Closures45:50 Love and Deep Space: A Unique RPG48:18 Last War Survival's Success50:09 Fake Ads57:33 Overwatch Loot Boxes Return??58:45 Conclusion and Sign-Off

Marcos Muller, Director of Abu Dhabi talks about how the city is building a world-class gaming ecosystem from the ground up. From talent development to job creation and community engagement, Abu Dhabi Gaming is making big moves to attract studios, support developers, and put the region on the global gaming map. Marcos shares insights on the incentives for game studios, and the growth of the gaming economy in the UAE, and even breaks down some misconceptions about life in Abu Dhabi. If you're a game dev, investor, or just curious about emerging gaming hubs, this episode is a must-listen!connect with Marcos: www.linkedin.com/in/mmhabig/Chapters:00:00 – Intro & Welcome Marcos Muller02:15 – Why Abu Dhabi is Investing in Gaming06:30 – Building a Sustainable Gaming Ecosystem12:45 – The Role of Incubators, Accelerators & Studios18:20 – Financial Incentives & Support for Game Companies23:40 – Addressing the Talent Gap: Visas, Universities & Local Growth30:10 – What Makes Abu Dhabi Attractive for Game Developers?37:55 – Busting Myths About Living & Working in Abu Dhabi45:20 – Abu Dhabi's Long-Term Vision for Gaming50:05 – Final Thoughts & Advice for Game Developers

Our IRL events. Signup via the newsletter:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeScopely and Niantic are making moves, but can they actually change the game? NetEase unloads Marvel Rivals US studio—a political or an efficiency move? Plus, SMicrosoft's console strategy looks shakier than ever, and we break down what the future of console gaming really looks like. And just when you thought it was over, King pulls another card from its sleeve.

ALL upcoming events in our newsletter:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeSupercell had a monster year with €2.8B in revenue, proving that bigger live ops teams and aggressive marketing can still drive growth—but let's be real, Squad Busters flopped hard despite the hype. Meanwhile, Unity continues its slow-motion train wreck, losing key talent and scrambling to fix its ad tech, while AppLovin is absolutely crushing it, with stock up 700% thanks to AI-powered ads. Now, in a power move, AppLovin is dumping its entire games portfolio for $900M—so who's buying? Scopely? Zynga? Playtika? Drop your bets in the comments.

State of Mobile 2025 Report:https://bit.ly/42T04bXJoin us in this episode as Jonathan Briskman from Sensor Towers and Michail Katkoff explore the overall health of the mobile market.Jonathan highlights strong growth metrics despite a mature landscape and sheds light on the booming in-app purchase revenue and time spent on devices, while also discussing intriguing trends such as digital fatigue and the rise of hybrid apps.Jonathan sheds light on the booming in-app purchase revenue and time spent on devices, while also discussing intriguing trends such as digital fatigue and the rise of hybrid apps.We also touch on the global success stories in mobile gaming, with a special focus on new hit games and the strategic importance of localization for cracking difficult markets like Japan and South Korea.01:03 Mobile Market Trends and Metrics05:33 Mobile Gaming Analysis07:50 Challenges and Regional Factors15:50 Success Stories and Strategies25:57 Non-Gaming App Revenue Growth35:03 Innovative AI Features in Apps35:29 Gamification and User Engagement36:36 Duolingo: A Game or Learning Tool?38:14 Blurring Lines Between Games and Non-Games38:25 Short Drama Apps: A Growing Trend40:45 Global Mobile Usage Trends42:26 Digital Fatigue and Market Shifts49:40 Localization Strategies for Global Success53:56 Emerging Markets and Growth Opportunities56:46 Tapping into User-Generated Content Platforms01:00:06 Key Takeaways from the State of Mobile Report

Wilfrid Obeng's journey from Goldman Sachs and Google to gaming startup CTO is anything but typical.In this episode, he breaks down how AudioMob is redefining in-game ads with audio, why they chose Abu Dhabi over Silicon Valley to scale their engineering team, and what it takes to transition from corporate structure to startup chaos. We dig into leadership lessons, hiring strategies, and the future of ad monetization—all from someone who's been in the trenches. If you're scaling a startup or rethinking monetization, this episode is a must-listen.

signup to our newsletter and join our on-site events: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe With Jen at a meditation retreat in California and Miska fully embracing his jet-set life, Eric reminds us just how wrong Matthew Ball got it. Adam reveals the Multiversus thesis and argues that Battlefield has room to grab dormant fans and grow the market. Phil spews Battlefield tears and worries about Roblox's value destruction. They conclude by debating the AI integration in-games: flop or tbd?