Game Dev Unchained

About this episode:Marathon is supposed to usher in a return of great AAA western gaming, but did it fall short? Tune in for our impressions and outlook.Connect with us:•

About this episode:hristopher Stone is a dynamic Studio General Manager who has played a key role in some of the industry's most notable AAA titles. Currently, he's leading work on Ready or Not, while his impressive portfolio also includes high-profile projects such as Callisto Protocol, Days Gone, Call of Duty, and Dead Space. In this episode, Christopher shares his journey through groundbreaking game development, the challenges of steering large-scale projects, and his opinions for the future of gaming.Connect with us:•

https://magicmind.com/gduJan⁠ Get 45% off for mental wealth bundled with Magic Mind's new Sleep Elixir for better sleep. About this episode: Leo Gonzalez is the cofounder of GoDemics, a co development studio that partners with Riot Games, Gearbox, and 2K. He's a veteran of the industry with over 15 years of experience. This episode we dive into a special segment talking about UFOs and conspiracies as fun subjects to get our creative juices flowing. Connect with us: •

About this episode: Tony & Abby are independent game developers behind Black Tabby Games. Following up their first success, Scarlet Hollow, Slay the Princess is already a hit. I sat down with the team to learn about how the game came to be, and their advice doing this the second time. Connect with us: •

https://magicmind.com/gduJan Get 45% off for mental wealth bundled with Magic Mind's new Sleep Elixir for better sleep. About this episode: Tencent comes into question and is listed as a military company. Ray and I also talked about Ubisoft latest update, and how the industry is recovering. Connect with us: •

About this episode: In this episode, I sit down with Jordan Smith (20 year game design veteran) to talk about what it takes to keep pushing forward as a game developer when the industry feels like it's falling apart. We share stories about staying passionate, dealing with uncertainty, and finding strength in tough times—things I know we've all faced at some point in our careers. (1) Jordan (Altura) Smith | LinkedIn ArtStation - Jordan Smith Connect with us: •

About this episode: Coming back after a hiatus, I talk about what conversations and topics I'll be tackling for 2025. Connect with us: •

About this episode: Jim Gray is a seasoned video game professional with over two decades of experience, having led engineering and development teams at notable companies such as ILMxLAB, Sledgehammer Games, and Midnight Society. He has a strong background in gameplay programming and engineering management, contributing to titles like Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare and Ralph Breaks VR. Currently, Jim is the Founder and CEO of Jim Gray Productions, building a new video game production company from the ground up. Escape from Hadrian's Wall Demo on Steam (steampowered.com) ⁠Jim Gray Productions Jim Gray Productions (@JimGrayProds) / X Jim Gray Productions: Overview | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

About this episode: Ubisoft is making all types of bad headlines. This was recorded even before the rumor that the brothers are looking to sell to Tencent. Given more credence to our doomsday prediction that Ubisoft is on its last desperate legs. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Raymond Graham (@Wadarass) / X⁠ Connect with us: •

Magic Mind is offering a saving of 48% for unchained listeners. This is their best offer yet and it won't last long! Give that brain a boost and start your day with Magic Mind. Go to ⁠⁠⁠https://www.magicmind.com/DEVUNCHAINED20⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Scott Rogers with over 25 years in the game industry and an accomplished author drops by on the show to discuss the latest in the game development scene. Your Turn!: The Guide to Great Tabletop Game Design: Rogers, Scott A.: 9781119981596: Amazon.com: Books (1) Scott Rogers

Magic Mind is offering a saving of 48% for unchained listeners. This is their best offer yet and it won't last long! Give that brain a boost and start your day with Magic Mind. Go to ⁠⁠⁠https://www.magicmind.com/DEVUNCHAINED20⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: From the horrific Sony exclusive Concord and bug-filled Star Wars: Outlaws, when people hear AAA most gamers groan and moan knowing that they are paying top-dollar for incomplete games. What is going on? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Raymond Graham (@Wadarass) / X Connect with us: •

Magic Mind is offering a saving of 48% for unchained listeners. This is their best offer yet and it won't last long! Give that brain a boost and start your day with Magic Mind. Go to ⁠⁠https://www.magicmind.com/DEVUNCHAINED20⁠⁠ About this episode: Shawn Beck is from an award-winning Malaysian game studio, Weyrdworks, introduced his studio's philosophy and shared insights into the Malaysian game development scene. The discussion also focused on the development and potential of their virtual pets game, the evolution of the video game industry, and strategies for developing a free-to-play game. ⁠Weyrdlets on Steam (steampowered.com) Weyrdworks - Award Winning Game Development Studio Shawn Beck | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Magic Mind is offering a saving of 48% for unchained listeners. This is their best offer yet and it won't last long! Give that brain a boost and start your day with Magic Mind. Go to ⁠https://www.magicmind.com/DEVUNCHAINED20⁠ About this episode: We discussed the current challenges and future outlook for the game industry. Oli suggested that while the industry is experiencing a delayed effect from the Covid-19 pandemic, it is still an exciting area with significant attention from investors. However, Oli noted that larger funds are now participating in earlier stages of funding, which is causing more competition and reducing accessibility for exciting deals. Despite this, Oli remained optimistic, citing the industry's history of thriving during times of financial constraint. Brandon emphasized the importance of collaboration and the ongoing challenges of remote work in the aftermath of Covid-19. Collaborative Art Software: Draw Together on Magma (2) Oli Strong | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

About this episode: Ray and I discussed various challenges and trends in the game development industry, including funding issues, layoffs, and the impact of streaming services like Game Pass and Netflix. We also critiqued the current state of publishing and movie industries, and the trend of game publishers and developers moving towards subscription services. Lastly, we discussed the evolving PC gaming industry, the issue of library account ownership, and the extended tenure of Phil Spencer at Microsoft. ⁠Raymond Graham (@Wadarass) / X (twitter.com)⁠ Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode, I welcome Xalavier Nelson Jr., founder of Strange Scaffold, discussing his game "Life Eater" tackling moral ambiguity and intrusion testing. We explored geolocation risks and online security concerns, and discussed cultural sensitivity and sustainable practices in game development. Life Eater on Steam (steampowered.com) Home - Strange Scaffold Xalavier Nelson Jr. @ XP Game Summit (@WritNelson) / X Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode, we dive into the transformative role of AI in the gaming industry. We explore how AI enhances creativity, streamlines game development, and empowers smaller teams to produce high-quality games. The discussion also addresses ethical concerns and job security issues, emphasizing the balance between embracing new technology and preserving artistic integrity. Join us as we unpack the future of game development in the age of AI. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Benjamin James | LinkedIn Atlas Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: James Montagna discusses the challenges and creative processes behind reimagining classic games like 'Yar's Revenge' for modern audiences. He highlights the balance between maintaining the original's spirit and introducing innovative gameplay mechanics, such as hacking elements and side-view exploration. Montagna also reflects on WayForward's success, emphasizing the studio's passion, adaptability, and deep reverence for gaming history. ⁠Highlights by James Montagna (@JamesPopStar) / X James Montagna | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Damien Evans and I discussed the ongoing struggles in the video game industry, particularly the recent layoffs and their impact on employees. We expressed concerns about the job market's unpredictability, the push for higher profits, and the lack of job security, with Damien advocating for the formation of a union to provide a voice for workers. They also explored potential solutions, such as an opt-in, opt-out insurance membership scheme and a company-sponsored fund for employees, and planned for a follow-up discussion to contribute to positive changes in the industry. Damien Evans | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Ray and I had a comprehensive discussion about the current state of the industry, expressing concern about the unsustainable practices and lack of unionization. We also reflected on GDC 2024, sharing their experiences and opinions, as well as the impact of Epic layoffs on the show floor. Lastly, we discussed the marketing strategies of various companies, with a particular focus on Unity and its booth, which they found to be unimpressive. Raymond Graham (@Wadarass) / X (twitter.com) Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Read Article: https://wp.me/pcB0ew-1gR Francisco discussed the development, funding, and challenges of their game 'Lullaby of Life', including the importance of music and sound in the gaming experience. We also touched on the ongoing layoffs in the game development industry, the concept of early access, and the potential of new technologies such as the Steam Deck. Lastly, we shared advice for aspiring developers and discussed the balancing act between passion and business savvy. Save 34% on The Lullaby of Life on Steam (steampowered.com) The Lullaby Of Life - 1 Simple Game Francisco Lara Sikorski | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: full article: Character Craft: Didimo's Journey in AI Artistry with Veronica Orvalho – Game Dev Unchained Join us in this fascinating episode as Veronica shares her journey from 3D artist to tech pioneer with Didimo, the company transforming character art with AI in the gaming industry. Discover how Veronica secured substantial EU funding to push the boundaries of game development and learn about the evolution of character pipelines that are reshaping the industry. Listen to the challenges of scaling creative projects, the importance of team dynamics, and the power of personal relationships in achieving business success. Veronica also dives into future collaborations and strategic partnerships that are set to accelerate Didimo's growth. Tune in to gain unique insights from the intersection of art and innovation in the fast-paced world of game development. Veronica Costa Orvalho | LinkedIn Didimo - Ultimate 3D Character Creation Technology for Game Developers Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Ray and I had a comprehensive discussion about the current state of the industry, expressing concern about the unsustainable practices and lack of unionization. We also reflected on GDC 2024, sharing their experiences and opinions, as well as the impact of Epic layoffs on the show floor. Lastly, we discussed the marketing strategies of various companies, with a particular focus on Unity and its booth, which they found to be unimpressive. Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode, I discussed Tav Shande's recent work in his game on project UEFN and his long-standing career in game development. They also talked about the gaming industry, criticizing Epic's management and discussing the importance of adaptability and diversifying income streams. The conversation shifted to Fortnite and the potential for financial investment and starting a studio. We also discussed the growing influence of user-generated content, the challenges of managing it, and the business strategies of gaming companies. Towards the end, we debated the future of gaming, the challenges of finding a unique identifier for content, and the direction Activision/Blizzard after its acquisition by Microsoft. fortnite.com/@artbytav Welcome to TavShande.com – Story-driven Art meets new, emerging tech & design Tav shande (@artbytav) / X (twitter.com) Content by Tav - UE Marketplace (unrealengine.com) Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode, I had a discussison with Nicholas Seavert (CEO of JangaFX) covering a range of topics about the game industry, including visual effects, software tools, corporate vs indie game companies, entrepreneurship, and the impact of smaller companies on the industry. We also touched on the challenges of managing people, the trend towards leaner, more powerful tools, pricing and consumer appreciation, and the importance of team members' dedication and creativity. Connect with us: •

https://magicmind.com/janunchained⁠ 75% off subscription. Get 1 month free with a 3 month subscription with my code GAMEDEVUNCHAINED. ENDS JAN 31st. Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode, Brandon and Raymond discuss the recent layoffs in the games industry, speculating on potential causes and implications. They also touch on the challenges faced by individuals in finding jobs in their industry, the increasing use of AI in the gaming industry, the concept of worth in the workplace and capitalism, the impact of AI on their industry, the current state of video game design, the fallout from a hack of Insomniac, the financial performance of games, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the gaming industry, the challenges of managing a team in a remote or hybrid work environment, and the evolving social dynamics within the industry. Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode, I sit with Ray Graham about the latest news and trends that affects game developers. Fortnite is making a huge comeback, our breakdown of the Game Awards latest announcement, and of course preparing ourselves to GTA VI. Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Igor Puskaric presents his spotlight for a sketchfab project that a team 6 completed during the pandemic. An amazing piece of work that is interactive and showcases a new form of animation storytelling. Art Spotlight: Spark & Bibi - Sketchfab Community Blog - Sketchfab Community Blog Meet the Masters: Igor Puškarić - Sketchfab Community Blog - Sketchfab Community Blog⁠ iggy-design - Sketchfab IgorPuskaric | Instagram | Linktree Igor Puskaric | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Dive into the fascinating world of game development with a returning guest Pete Bottomley, co-founder of White Paper Games, unravel the intricacies of crafting narrative-driven titles in the ever-evolving gaming industry. From the impacts of the pandemic on studio operations to the resurgence of single-player games, this episode offers a deep dive into the creative and operational shifts that are shaping the future of gaming. We discuss the delicate balance of bootstrapping versus seeking funding, the importance of retaining IP rights, and the strategic decisions behind scoping and pitching projects. Listen in as we explore how small teams can thrive in a competitive market, the realities of publisher negotiations, and the trends that are signaling a return to indie roots, all while navigating the complexities of game design with passion and precision. This episode is not just a conversation; it's a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the art and business of making games. Don't miss out on these valuable lessons and heartfelt stories from industry veterans. ⁠Peter Bottomley | LinkedIn White Paper Games Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Lyndl Kempis joins this week to share his latest personal art piece. Being an early adopter of Blender and share his process of rigging, posing, and presentation. Lyndl40k (@3d.ronin) • Instagram photos and videos Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode of our podcast, we delve into three significant topics affecting the gaming industry: recent layoffs, the rise of User-Generated Content (UGC) and the UEFN, and the missteps taken by major companies like Epic Games. Firstly, we discuss the unfortunate trend of layoffs in the games industry. Despite the industry's growth, several game developers and publishers have recently announced layoffs, leaving many employees uncertain about their futures. We explore the reasons behind these layoffs and their impact on the industry's workforce and culture. Next, we shift our focus to the growing importance of User-Generated Content (UGC). We examine how players are now actively contributing to game development by creating content for Fortnite. This UGC movement is not only changing the way games are played but also challenging traditional notions of game ownership and intellectual property rights. Finally, we turn our attention to Epic Games, a major player in the gaming industry, and its recent missteps. Epic Games has faced backlash for various decisions, including its legal battles with Apple and Google, and controversial exclusive game releases. We discuss how these missteps have affected the company's reputation and the broader gaming community. Tune in for a riveting discussion on the past, present, and future of gaming!

AU 2023 | November 13-15 in Las Vegas  ⁠www.autodesk.com/gamedevunchained⁠⁠ Paul Klee, Rich Harbour by Subsage (itch.io)⁠ Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Join me in an insightful conversation with Brian Canary, Lead Designer at Splash Damage. After years since our last talk, we reunite to dive into the profound transformations that have swept the game industry over the past half-decade.

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Dive into the intriguing tale of Eric Manahan, a former architect turned game developer, as he transitions from the structured world of building design to the fluid realm of 32-bit gaming. Eric's "Lucid", a nod to the SNES era, is a manifestation of his passion and a homage to his childhood gaming memories. Beyond the pixels, discover the blend of architectural principles with game design as floor plans transform into immersive side-scrollers. As we delve into Eric's story, uncover the broader allure that draws architects to the gaming universe. If you've ever wondered how diverse skills can intersect in the most unexpected of domains, this episode is a must-listen. https://indiegame.business IndieGameBusiness® - YouTube IndieGameBusiness®

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Back Lucid Kickstarter Now! About this episode: Dive into the intriguing tale of Eric Manahan, a former architect turned game developer, as he transitions from the structured world of building design to the fluid realm of 32-bit gaming. Eric's "Lucid", a nod to the SNES era, is a manifestation of his passion and a homage to his childhood gaming memories. Beyond the pixels, discover the blend of architectural principles with game design as floor plans transform into immersive side-scrollers. As we delve into Eric's story, uncover the broader allure that draws architects to the gaming universe. If you've ever wondered how diverse skills can intersect in the most unexpected of domains, this episode is a must-listen. LUCID by thematteblackstudio — Kickstarter The Matte Black Studio LUCID by The Matte Black Studio (@_theMatteBlack) / X (twitter.com) LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Dive into the captivating journey of John Krajewski, the mastermind behind the thriving virtual world of Eco. With a pedigree from industry giants like EA, John took a leap and has been steering Strange Loop Games to success for 14 years. Discover how Eco, with over 800k enthusiastic members, is redefining online realms by empowering players as citizens. Learn about John's vision of a meaningful metaverse and get a glimpse of what it takes to design such intricate worlds. Beyond digital realms, uncover John's passion for board games and his insatiable appetite for learning. Tune in to grasp the future of immersive gaming, straight from the vanguard! John Krajewski | LinkedIn Eco (play.eco) Strange Loop Games Connect with us: •

https://magicmind.com/unchained⁠ 56% off subscription 20% for one-time purchases with my code GAMEDEV20 Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this roundtable episode, we delve deep into the transformative influence of Gen Z as they make their foray into the workforce, especially against the backdrop of a post-pandemic world. As the gaming industry grapples with unprecedented shifts, the widening chasm in work infrastructure within game studios becomes a pivotal point of discussion. We examine the eroding bridge of mentorship, which is leading to a concerning gap in best practices being imparted to the upcoming talent pool. The ramifications? A cloud of uncertainty that potentially impedes the industry's forward momentum. With Gen Z at the forefront, the gaming world finds itself at an inflection point — will they receive the guidance and knowledge transfer they need to lead the industry with stability and innovation? This episode delves into these pressing concerns and envisions potential pathways forward. From ensuring smoother transitions and fostering mentorship to recognizing the unique values and perspectives that Gen Z brings to the table, our discussions shed light on the evolving dynamics of the gaming world. For anyone invested in the future of the gaming industry, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Join us as we chart the course of game studios in this brave new post-pandemic era ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Raymond Graham (@Wadarass) / Twitter⁠⁠ Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Join Joe Schaeppi, a renowned UX expert who started his illustrious career running a usability lab in Switzerland, as he dives deep into the captivating realm of User Experience (UX) in gaming. Schaeppi uncovers the transformative journey of UX, from basic user interfaces to intricate player experiences that define modern gaming. Discover how games historically leaned on their sheer interactivity and why many still miss the mark today. Venture from World War II sonar systems to Apple's iconic design ethos, retracing the roots of UX and its connection to human behavior. Tune in to unlock the secrets of crafting optimal gaming experiences and ensure every playthrough becomes an unforgettable adventure. Joe Schaeppi | LinkedIn AI-Driven Analytics: Revolutionizing Audience Understanding - Solsten Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Dive into the future of game development with Tony Bevilacqua, the founder of Cognitive3D, in our latest podcast episode. Uncover the emerging potential of XR in revolutionizing gaming experiences. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the intersection of XR, analytics, and gaming. ⁠⁠ Cognitive3D | Analytics for VR, AR, MR Tony Bevilacqua | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Our guest, Haz Dullull, a founder of Hazanimation, takes us through his journey from video games to the movie industry and back, now leveraging gaming technology to produce animated films. Learn about the convergence of games and movies as industries begin to share tools, technology, and knowledge. Haz provides a fascinating look at the evolution of the gaming industry, its rising quality standards, and the blurring lines between games and film. Tune in to gain insights into the past, present, and future of these intertwined industries. ⁠HaZimation⁠⁠HaZimation (@HaZ_Dulull) Twitter⁠⁠HaZ Dulull LinkedIn⁠ Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this episode, we delve into the captivating journey of indie developers Andrew and Roman, the dynamic duo behind Double and Dynopunk. They share invaluable insights on their development process, revealing how they remained motivated despite years of hard work with no immediate return. Drawing from their personal experiences, they discuss the importance of community engagement, sharing your work, and accepting criticism in the development process. As they recount their story, you'll uncover the resilience and determination it takes to turn dreams into reality in the game development world. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that might just spark your own gamedev journey. Dynopunk | Tomato Fantasy Games (@TomatoFantasyGm) / Twitter Dynopunk on Steam (steampowered.com) Connect with us: •

https://magicmind.com/unchained 56% off subscription 20% for one-time purchases with my code GAMEDEV20 Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Uncover the story behind indie sensation BattleBit Remastered in an exclusive chat with developer Max Fink. Journey through their inspiring adventure, from pushing their limits to creating a game capable of supporting 250 players on low-end hardware, to their unexpected success on Steam. Discover how this ambitious trio honed their skills and crafted a gaming experience akin to giants like CS:GO and Battlefield. This remarkable story of determination, community engagement, and a love for gaming is one you wouldn't want to miss. Dive in, hear the full story, and get inspired to push your own limits in game development. BattleBit Remastered on Steam (steampowered.com)BATTLEBIT

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this riveting episode of Game Dev Unchained, our guest Alex Silkin delves deep into the transformation of the VR landscape over the past decade. From pioneering hardware software prototypes at USC, leading a company, Survios, creating innovative VR games, to their present projects focusing on big IP licenses, Alex offers an insider's perspective on the VR industry. In a candid conversation about the resurgence of VR interest, the impacts of Apple's new product on the industry, and the future of VR/AR, this episode offers invaluable insights into where the technology is heading. Will the next five years see a merge of AR and VR technologies? What's the potential impact of Apple's entry into this space? Find out all this and much more in this must-listen episode. If you're a gamer, developer or tech enthusiast, you won't want to miss this deep dive into the fast-evolving world of Virtual Reality. Alexander Silkin | LinkedIn Survios⁠⁠⁠ Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In our latest episode, we delve into the controversy stirred up by Xbox executive Matt Booty's recent comments. Booty stated that AAA games now take 4-6 years to develop, and that the industry needs to adjust its expectations accordingly. His remarks sent shockwaves through the gaming community, with gamers, journalists, and developers alike branding it as an irresponsible statement indicative of everything wrong with AAA games. But is that really the case? In this exclusive soapbox episode, I'm taking a deep dive into the controversy, challenging the popular narrative, and offering my own perspective. Is the time taken to develop AAA games truly an issue? Or is this criticism simply a lack of understanding of the complexities and demands of creating these immersive experiences? We'll discuss what it takes to create a AAA game in today's gaming industry and why the typical development timeline has stretched. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the intricacies of game development, the challenges faced, and the effort that goes into delivering the experiences gamers love. So if you're ready to explore a different viewpoint on this hotly-debated issue, this episode is a must-listen. We'll challenge assumptions, debunk myths, and hopefully shed some light on the true state of AAA game development. Don't miss out on this in-depth discussion. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Journey with us as we delve into Apple's latest masterpiece, the Vision Pro, a groundbreaking augmented reality headset that's revolutionizing the VR/AR landscape. Immerse yourself in a world where 3D interfaces blend seamlessly with reality, and everyday interactions like watching movies or capturing moments get a futuristic makeover. Explore the cutting-edge features that set it apart, like the ability to adapt to a user's environment and unique control methods using your eyes, hands, and voice. Plus, tune in as we size up Apple's formidable contender against Meta Quest and delve into Xbox's much-anticipated games - Starfield and Outlaws, set to drop later this year. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Raymond Graham (@Wadarass) / Twitter⁠ Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: Dive into the world of game development in our latest podcast episode featuring John Li, co-founder of Pick Fu. Discover how Pick Fu revolutionized user testing, offering rapid, targeted insights to optimize game design and launches. Learn from success stories where testing has led to improved game design and boosted user acquisition ROI. Explore the intricacies of game concept development, market validation, and the future of game design. Gain tips for finding a market for your game concepts, perfect for indie developers. Understand how Pick Fu handles massive user data and the trends in user behavior in gaming. Tune in to leverage Pick Fu's platform and elevate your game development journey. ⁠Split testing, optimization, and instant consumer research | PickFu John Li | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠⁠ About this episode: In this captivating episode, experts, Demid Tishin & Marina Turkina, in video game localization discuss the intricacies of their field. They highlight how the process often comes in at the end of the development cycle, leading to a crunch situation, and share interesting anecdotes about the challenges of dealing with missed deadlines, tight budgets, and large amounts of text. The team delves into the importance of culturalization in the localization process, explaining how it can prevent potential cultural issues while improving player engagement. They touch upon the role of voiceovers in games, the organization of their localization teams, and some unique cases they've handled. If you're interested in the behind-the-scenes world of game development and want to understand how games become accessible to diverse global audiences, this is a must-listen episode. Game localization, 2D and 3D art services | Allcorrect - Games Localization Company (allcorrectgames.com) ⁠Marina Turkina | LinkedIn Demid Tishin | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠ About this episode: Dive into a captivating conversation with veteran game developers, Dino Patti & Tadej Gregorcic (Cofounders @ Coherence) as they share their rollercoaster experiences in the rapidly changing gaming industry. Listen to their tales of starting afresh with each new project, their transitions from being hands-on coders to leadership roles, and their adoption of advanced tools like Unity and Unreal to bring visions to life. Learn about the delicate balance they strike between creation and management, and the lessons they've gleaned from both successes and setbacks. Above all, explore their insights on building motivated teams, and the undeniable value of being surrounded by talented individuals. This episode is not just about gaming – it's a treasure trove of leadership wisdom that resonates far beyond the digital world. Don't miss out! Home · coherence ⁠Dino Patti | LinkedIn Tadej Gregorcic | LinkedIn For full show notes: https://wp.me/pcB0ew-1ai Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠⁠ About this episode: Redfall's post-release period has been turbulent, adding to an already challenging week at Microsoft. Arkane Studios, typically a favorite among critics and fans, has been met with widespread disappointment, prompting questions about what went wrong. As day-1 glitches and significant bugs in games like Redfall become increasingly common, the gaming community's patience is wearing thin, leading to a surge in fervent reactions. In this week's roundtable news episode, we delve into the paradox of how advanced tools, rather than enhancing games and expediting their development, seem to be having the inverse effect. Our panel also addresses recent tech industry layoffs, Meta's change of strategic direction, and Apple's plans to both rectify and capitalize on the potential of AR/VR technology. ⁠Raymond Graham (@Wadarass) / Twitter Full show notes can be found here: Behind the Veil: The Complexities of Game Development and Market Reception – Game Dev Unchained Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe⁠ About this episode: As a digital ecosystem thrives and transforms at a rapid pace, a recent conversation with game designer and educator Willem Delventhal offered insights into the evolving realm of game development. From the nuances of technological advancements to the ideological tug of war between indie creators and corporate giants, the discussion spanned a variety of pertinent topics within the gaming industry. For a complete breakdown and something to reference in written form visit the article here: ⁠https://wp.me/pcB0ew-19J Home | The Wizard of Joy (willemdelventhal.com) Experience | Willem Delventhal | LinkedIn⁠ Indie Game Academy | Online Video Game Development Bootcamp and Classes ⁠Willem Delventhal (@IfYouWillem) / Twitter Indie Game Lunch Hour (spreaker.com) Connect with us: •

Subscribe to Game Dev Unchained! Get access to subscriber-only episodes for a monthly subscription. https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gamedevunchained/subscribe About this episode: In a recent episode of Game Dev Unchained, host Brandon Pham sat down with Adnan Chaumette, founder of Polygon Flow, to discuss the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the gaming and entertainment industries. Chaumette, shared his insights on how AI technology has the potential to revolutionize the creation process for artists and developers. For a complete breakdown and something to reference in written form visit the article here: How AI is Taking Over the Gaming Industry and What It Means for You with Adnan Chaumette – Game Dev Unchained Polygonflow - Workflows of the future Adnan (@AdnanChaumette) / Twitter ArtStation - Adnan Chaumette Adnane Chaumette | LinkedIn Connect with us: •

New episodes of our podcast will be returning on May 2nd at 6 AM PST! After an unannounced sabbatical, we're back with fresh and exciting topics to explore this year. Here's a sneak peek at what's in store: A return from our unannounced sabbatical: We'll discuss the break and what we've been up to during this time. AI's impact on the gaming industry: Delving into how artificial intelligence is transforming various aspects of game development and the industry as a whole. The game developer's place in an ever-increasing digital world: Exploring how developers can adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Game localization and its impact on globalizing your product: Discussing the importance of localization for reaching international markets and expanding your game's audience. Turning previous episodes into articles: Starting in May, we'll be converting select episodes into easily digestible articles, creating a valuable resource vault for quick referencing. This will cover a wide range of topics, such as breaking into the industry, moving up the corporate ladder, starting an indie studio, handling business logistics, acquiring funding, and tips for publishing and marketing your games. We can't wait to share these insightful discussions with you as we dive into these compelling topics. Mark your calendars for May 2nd at 6 AM PST, and get ready for a fantastic new season of the podcast! Connect with us: •

About this episode: Recruitment have faltered for industry entry jobs this past year as more companies are embracing the hybrid/remote work. The main reason has been shifting towards more mature/disciplined candidates to offset the long onboarding process. This is obviously bad news for younger students who are looking to break into the industry near-term. Ian McDonell is an Associate Environment Artist @ Lost Boys Interactive, have conquered the odds and is on this week's episode to give some insight on what worked for him and what didn't. Ian McDonell | LinkedIn Ian McDonell - 3D Artist Connect with us: •