Podcasts about Gamedev

This week, we talk about decades, board games, and labor capture. First they said AI would save you time. Now it just bills you for every second it spends doing your job worse than you could. Ah yes, classic late stage capitalism.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:19 Intro00:40 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)00:56 Crashlands 2 Update 1.301:45 AI space31:14 Jumpylumpa Leapylow: what are you most thankful for?41:40 WhileifAndorelse: Was there an intentional design decision behind epic level creatures in Crashlands having blood shot eyes?48:36 Challosis: Have you ever made a physical game?To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us for a conversation with Eric Betancourt, a storytelling powerhouse, an award-worthy narrative designer, masterful Dungeon Master, and educator who brings worlds to life across tabletop and digital realms. With credits from heavyweights like Wizards of the Coast and Fantasy Flight Games, he's using the power of play to spark creativity, build empathy, and fuel real-world changeLearn more about EricLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

In this episode of Growing Pains, we dive into the complex world of AI anti-cheat systems with André Pimenta, founder and CEO of Anybrain. Anybrain is using AI to transform the gaming industry by directly mapping and analyzing player interactions to detect cheating behaviour in-game, tackling everything from bot usage to account boosting. André shares his journey in building Anybrain, from working with AI before it was cool and their early origin as a stress management tracker, to their ultimate pivot towards fair play in gaming. Tune in to see how Anybrain uses AI technologies to make games into a fairer ecosystem for all players.Growing Pains is a series focusing on key business trends and people shaping the Global Games Market and their impact on the Games Industry. In this series, Jay speaks with industry leaders across the Games and Gametech space, trying to demystify the industry, understand the state of leadership, and answer the all-important question, 'Is having a fun game still enough to succeed in today's games market?'

Between making a great game and having the drive to do it, it's still only half the battle. Indie studios love chasing creativity, but often struggle to establish core business fundamentals that can turn passion into profit. That's why today we're going to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to stand out and succeed in games. From funding pitfalls to publishing strategies, we'll unpack the often-overlooked realities of running a successful studio, what founders often get wrong, and how to de-risk and shift toward smarter stainability  Episode Shownotes Link: 

In this episode, Carina sits down to talk with Alex Eichinger about his background in the gaming industry and how being a leader has helped him to inspire and empower others. We talk about his journey from leader to working in consultancy as well as some of his favourite games!

In this episode, we discuss cuts, cuts, and more cuts. Cutting features is a critical part of shaping a game. Before launch, when you're free from player expectations, you can step back and think about what's working and what's just in the way. It's all part of iterating toward something better.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:29 Intro00:45 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:04 Steam Summer Sale02:30 Industry News08:01 Ronniethebear: Can you think of any features you've nixed to make way for better ones?24:34 Mimmabip Gourkee: What are your thoughts on releasing a free mobile game that has just one IAP which unlocks some small parts of the game that isn't essential for $7?To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Squinky and Jess from Soft Chaos dive into the world of worker co-ops and how collective ownership fuels their bold, genre-defying work. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how they create deeply personal, experimental games and interactive art that push the boundaries of play.Learn more about SoftChaos GamesLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Many games are fun, but few stay with us after the credits roll. So today, we're going to dive into how indie devs can use game mechanics, narrative, and aesthetic choices to create emotional resonance and meaning in their titles. From narrative tools to methods that focus on player empathy, we unpack the secrets behind making games that create a lasting impact. Episode Shownotes Link:     

This week, we talk about game updates, publishing pain points, and shifting expectations. For a small indie, launching a game feels like a wild experiment. But with a bigger team, it's a high-stakes balancing act, with company costs and momentum on the line. Still, with every launch, if you play your cards right, you just might hit the jackpot.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:38 Intro00:56 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:17 Update 1.2 Release09:02 Industry Update20:24 Achievements41:19 Calzoncillos: How does the Crashlands 2 launch feel compared to Crashlands 1?To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In the premiere episode of “Quest Givers,” I sit down with game developer Chris Anderson of Newt Industries—creators of Risk System, Garbinge, and the upcoming Bangle & Maggie. We discuss how a chance playground meet-up sparked a development partnership, how Chris's early PC tinkering turned into indie game passion, and the major challenges of the gaming industry. THE SHOW NOTES Find & support my guest over at: Newt Industries website | Newt Industries on X | YouTube Risk System Trailer Purchase a copy of Risk System at VGYNsoft | Hidden Trap Purchase Risk System digitally | Steam | itch.io -Risk System Giveaway- I'm giving away a free physical copy of Risk System! (PS4/Switch) How to enter: Join The Main Quest Discord Tell me your favorite shmup in the #Risk-System-Giveaway channel Bonus Entry: Follow Newt Industries on social media Share a screenshot in the giveaway channel Deadline: Monday, July 14th Winner will be announced shortly after in Discord and on social media The Main Quest is brought to you by the supporters on Patreon SeekYeWisdom - Chris Coplien - Eric Gess - XeroSam - LowFiveAlex - Vanfernal - Leathco - RyanPlayerOne - Poppy The Masked Keaton - Lars Uncle - B-Ross - Aiden Bisco - Raging Demon - Rob Worthen The intro for 'Quest Givers' was specially supplied by the artist SeekYeWisdom To easily submit your questions for future guests or hang out with other like-minded gamers, come join the Discord Subscribe: RSS | YouTube | Apple | Spotify | and More

In this episode, Oscar is joined in his podquest to 'learn everything about #gamedev you never dared to ask' by behavioral game economist Catalin Alexandru. The two discuss the intersection of behavioral economics and game design, exploring how economic models influence player behavior and the challenges faced by mobile developers in the current landscape.

Mainstream game development is at a crossroads—bloated budgets, safe bets, and sequel fatigue are threatening innovation. But the indie scene might just be the industry's best hope. In this episode, our guest unpacks how indies are not only surviving but reshaping the gaming landscape. We dig into what makes indie studios uniquely suited to lead the next wave, and how publishers, platforms, and players can help this movement thrive. Episode Shownotes Link: 

In the 19th episode of AnsweRED Podcast, our hosts Sebastian Kalemba and Paweł Burza are joined by Alyssa Zarate, Art Director & Environment Supervisor, and Albert Szostkiewicz, VFX Supervisor. They talked about the craft, creativity, and complexity behind visual effects — both in games and film.

In this episode, we discuss the Crashlands 2 Update and the visibility tax. Marketing sounds easy: cut a trailer, toss up a post, and call it a day. But it's more like lining up dominoes; the trailer, localized assets, subtitles, blog posts, platform timings all have to be stacked just right. Miss the timing and it all topples over. It's not exactly chaos, it just feels like it.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:33 Intro00:50 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)03:20 Crashlands 2 Patch 1.2 Hardcore Scramble08:02 Trailer30:04 LocalizationTo stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to another podcast edition of One Life Left, the world's longest running video game radio show (in the English language)! This week we are joined by Super Special Guest Mike Bithell of Bithell Games, here to talk about their new game, TRON: Catalyst, working with licences, the mysteries of the Disney Archive and what he doesn't want to talk about... There's also 'heated' debate about Donkey Kong, Nintendo have an accident underground, Charlesbot flips out over third party Switch 2 games and Ste and Simon's partners run away to Sheffield with Adam & Joe! Well, wouldn't you?? Meanwhile The Art of Video Game Design nears the end of it's course! A great philosopher once said "freedom is the right of all sentient beings" and that was never truer than right here, dear listener! And it actually works with most media - if there's ever something you don't like, just skip it. You are that sentient being. You have that freedom. Would you prefer $7200 or two weeks off work? We can't make either happen but let us know anyway at team@onelifeleft.com or join our Discord and tell us there. Link below! TTFN,Team OLL x Links: The OLL Everything Link! http://hello.onelifeleft.com/ The Maraoke Everything Link! https://hello.maraoke.com Block Words Link! https://blockwords.app/ The Shure link!https://tag.gs/OneLifeLeft_Shure Reviews: Cyberpunk 2077 Assassin's Creed Shadows Vampire Survivors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the process of learning new tools as game developers, creatives, and collaborators. From the initial overwhelm to the breakthrough moments, our community shares real experiences, strategies, and mindset shifts that make picking up new tech less daunting—and even fun. Whether you're switching engines or picking up your first tool, this conversation might just be the push you need.Learn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

In this episode, Emily and Kyle will discuss updates and struggles they've faced whilst working on their upcoming game.

Σήμερα στη Retropolis φιλοξενούμε τον Άρη Δραγώνη, έναν indie game developer από τη Λάρισα.Ο Άρης έγινε ευρύτερα γνωστός με το The Shore, ένα αφηγηματικό horror adventure game εμπνευσμένο από το σύμπαν του H.P. Lovecraft. Το παιχνίδι συνδυάζει ατμόσφαιρα, γρίφους και εντυπωσιακά πλάσματα. Κυκλοφόρησε το 2021 σημειώνοντας εξαιρετικές πωλήσεις διεθνώς. Ακολούθησε το The Shore VR, μεταφέροντας την εμπειρία σε εικονική πραγματικότητα.Το 2023 κυκλοφόρησε το Eresys, ένα συνεργατικό παιχνίδι τρόμου όπου οι παίκτες αναλαμβάνουν τον ρόλο τεσσάρων ατόμων που αντιμετωπίζουν κοσμικούς εχθρούς. To 2025 βγήκε το Necrophosis, ένα horror adventure πρώτου προσώπου, που σε μεταφέρει σε έναν εφιαλτικό κόσμο αποσύνθεσης και μεταφυσικού τρόμου. Ο παίκτης ξυπνά σε ένα σύμπαν βυθισμένο στη σήψη, όπου όλα έχουν μολυνθεί από την "Necrophosis", μια κατάρα που καταστρέφει ό,τι αγγίζει.https://store.steampowered.com/curator/44787221-Dragonis-games/#browse⁠https://dragonisgames.com/about-me-2/

Leveling up in real life takes more than just discipline, passion and trying to level up others, it takes smart design. In this episode, we explore how game design principles can help us, devs and creators, develop practical life skills, reframe personal challenges, and even learn more effectively from that process. To today, we're going unpack how instructional design and narrative systems, can turn real-world friction into real momentum. Episode Shownotes Link: 

Progress is slow but steady. I'm happy with the progress and improvements I've seen in the most recent prototypes.Should game developers focus on paying themselves a fair wage? Do we make ourselves a martyr of our own development too often?Wishlist WASarD on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1151870/WASarD/

Quick update of everything game dev going on. Color Learning for Toddlers (Google Play Store) - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vigmu2.colorlearning&hl=en-US Barracks Article - No linked article Holding on itch.io - https://rb.gy/f81n6a Check out my Social Media: X - https://twitter.com/vigmu2  Discord - https://discord.gg/AYEAK5RmFR YouTube - www.youtube.com/@gamedevarenaRumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-925547Humble Bundle Affiliate - https://www.humblebundle.com/?partner=vigmu2gamesProvide thoughts on show and join email list for show notifications: https://bit.ly/3hGNqEP

This week, we talk about Crashlands 2 patch 1.2, the Switch 2, and the Bscotch universe. Some game worlds begin with lore, maps, and timelines. Others emerge backwards, stitched together from mechanics, vibes, and the weird joy of making things work. Where gameplay leads, the universe follows.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:22 Intro00:47 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)04:51 Crashlands 2 Patch 1.2 Update27:25 Industry News42:08 PureKnix: What components of a setting make a good backdrop for video games?To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Aysha U. Farah shares her approach to building unforgettable stories and gives us an inside look at her latest project, the narrative shooter Spine. Asyha is one of the sharpest minds in narrative design today, with a portfolio that spans Magic: The Gathering, Hiveswap, and the GDC Award-winning Life is Strange: Double Exposure.Learn more about AyshaLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Indie devs often wear too many hats, making it hard to give each area, like production, marketing, and community the attention it deserves. But what happens when you're stretched too thin? How does that affect your game, your message, and the trust you've built with players? In today's discussion, we'll look at the real-world challenges of running indie projects balancing chaos and creativity by exploring how teams can better align development and communication using practical systems that support both teammates and players. Episode Shownotes Link: 

In this episode, we discuss game libraries, game mods, and the point. Doing this podcast every week doesn't come anywhere close to paying the bills, but that's not why we do it. A studio isn't a content machine chasing dollars; it's a bunch of people passionate about making cool stuff! It's good to have that reminder every once in a while.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:24 Intro00:42 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)02:19 Switch 231:19 Jumpylumpa Leapylow: AKA Dageki - What are you brothers getting from these podcasts? 48:27 ButterMilkLoveNugget: If and when crashlands 2 becomes a blockbuster hit, do you think anyone will be making any mods to the game to further enhance or change the experienceTo stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we sit down with Layla Pigott (they/she)—film editor, game designer, and founder of Lookout Drive Games—to talk about the challenges and rewards of being trans and queer in the game industry. From navigating identity in professional spaces to building community through games like Portrait of a Texas Family and Bitter Silver, Layla shares hard-won insights and hopeful visions for the future of queer storytelling in games.Learn more about LaylaLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Many developers dream of going viral, but few understand what it actually takes to get there. While focusing on virality isn't everything, it can help build momentum. So today, we're going to talk about how to identify, shape, and publish games with viral potential, all without chasing trends or sacrificing originality, by learning what early signals to look for and how smart marketing can fuel breakout momentum. Episode Shownotes Link: 

This week, we talk about studio hats, game dev tools, and learning new languages.Wearing multiple hats isn't just a metaphor—it's the daily reality of a small studio. When roles shift and responsibilities blur, the real challenge is keeping things aligned without dropping the whole juggling act.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:23 Intro00:38 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:01 Studio Shuffle18:00 Industry News32:30 Challosis: Have you tried learning a new language as an adult? How did it go?50:34 ButterMilkLoveNugget: Do you guys think you will ever do a VR game?To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us for a conversation with Sydney, the unparalleled force behind some of the most compelling horror and sci-fi storytelling in games and film. An award-winning filmmaker, game dev, streamer, and horror ambassador, Sydney channels a uniquely digital soul into creations like QUALIA—a striking exploration of robots, identity, and what it means to be alive.Learn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

The publishing model most indie devs face is outdated and often stacked against them. Rigid contracts, hidden expectations, and a lack of real partnership force devs to choose between full independence or giving up too much. But thankfully, a new approach is emerging. In this episode, we explore what a modern publishing model looks like, one that's flexible, transparent, and built around developers' long-term success. We unpack the rise of shadow publishing, the value of regional talent, and what meaningful support really looks like in today's industry. Episode Shownotes Link:   

Hiring only senior engineers might feel like a smart move, but is it breaking game development? In this episode, Ben sits down with Carly Taylor (an engineer and data scientist formerly on Call of Duty, now at Databricks) to tackle one of the most pressing and misunderstood issues in game development today: the crumbling pipeline of engineering talent. They dive deep into the tragedy of the commons happening across studios, where short-term thinking and overreliance on senior talent are putting the future of game engineering at risk. Carly sheds light on the danger of under-investing in junior talent, the mentorship void left behind by remote work, and the role AI is really playing (hint: it's not what vendors are promising). Whether you're leading a studio, managing engineers, or trying to break into games yourself, this episode is a wake-up call. You'll Hear: -Why the next generation of engineers is not being mentored -How studios are draining the senior talent pool -The real technical challenges of using AI in games -Why hiring only senior devs doesn't produce better games -What juniors bring to the table (and why companies should listen) -How remote work disrupted knowledge transfer and how to rebuild it -Why game dev is still one of the most passionate industries in tech Connect with Carly Taylor: - Website: https://www.rebeldatascience.com/ - Substack: https://carlytaylor.substack.com/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carly-taylor - Databricks: https://www.databricks.com/dataaisummit/speaker/carly-taylor Join the Building Better Games Community: - BBG Discord: https://discord.gg/ySCPS5aMcQ - Level Up Your Production Skills: https://www.buildingbettergames.gg/succeeding-in-game-production - Subscribe to the BBG newsletter: https://www.buildingbettergames.gg/newsletter Connect with Us: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-carcich - Website: https://www.buildingbettergames.gg - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bbg.valarininc - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BuildingBetterGames

In this episode, we discuss generated faces, internet noise, and brotherly dynamics. A strong sibling bond doesn't mean zero conflict. It means noticing drift before you're miles apart and trusting each other enough to realign. There's no such thing as flawless communication, so you learn to navigate the friction with a mix of clarity, respect, and well-timed eyebrow raises.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:27 Intro00:44 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:22 AI45:24 Jumpylumpa Leapylow: What would you say has been/is your key to getting along?To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we chat with the team behind Sweet and Power Sauce (SAPS), a six-person studio born from the joy of game jams and a shared love of traditional art. We'll dive into their upcoming title Whiskers, Wizards, and Wands, a hand-drawn, marker-and-ink adventure where a reluctant feline wizard crafts spells to untangle a chaotic world: merging classic art with modern gameplay in a vibrant isometric space.Learn more abour Sweet and Power Sauce (SAPS)Learn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Many indie studios feel locked out of traditional PR, feeling like you need an agency and big budget just to get noticed. In this episode, we break down how to earn meaningful media coverage with a story worth telling and how to create a system to share it. Learn how a strategic approach to visibility can build credibility, attract players, and drive momentum, all without gatekeepers or expensive retainers. Episode Shownotes Link:

This week, we talk about patch 1.2, Steam Deck verification, and code comments. Writing code is one thing; leaving behind notes future you can understand is a whole other game. Whether it's chaos in the comments or silence in the source, every line is a choice between clarity and future confusion.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:27 Intro00:50 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:20 Studio News16:40 Patch 1.243:27 Jumpylumpa Leapylow: What do your programming notes look like? Are they strictly functional/informational or do you sprinkle in some of your trademark studio humor?Other things mentioned: Levelhead Community Spotlight #150: (https://www.bscotch.net/post/levelhead-community-spotlight-150)To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we're joined by the founders of Ludorya Studios, a team of game designers who met during their Master's in Game Science and Design and built a studio where playful chaos meets meaningful innovation. We explore their journey, their commitment to designing games by players, for players, and how they balance humor with thoughtful experimentation.Learn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Attribution often feels like a black box for indie devs, but ignoring it can cost you time, money, and momentum.  In this episode, we break down what attribution really is, why it matters, and how small teams can start tracking what counts while learning how to avoid misleading metrics, balance data with creative instincts, and make smarter marketing decisions that actually move the needle.    Episode Shownotes Link:  

Building a game is hard. Leading the team to do it well without losing yourself along the way? That's even harder. In this episode, Ben sits down with Melissa Phillips, founder of Games Leadership and a former Head of Studio, to talk about the messy, emotional, and deeply human side of game leadership. From BAFTA boardrooms to indie trenches, Melissa brings a rare blend of psychological insight and real-world experience to one of the most overlooked conversations in game development: what happens when power, pressure, and people collide. They dig into what founders get wrong, why doing “everything right” can still lead to failure, and how today's leaders can navigate burnout, broken systems, and the crushing uncertainty of building something new. You'll hear: Why leadership in games is different and often lonely The hidden cost of scaling a team too fast How power changes you (whether you like it or not) What founders need before they build the next big thing Why we need to talk about failure and what it teaches us What it really means to lead with resilience in an industry built on chaos If you're a founder, leader, or future studio builder, this one's for you. Connect with Melissa & Games Leadership:

In this episode, we discuss plushies, player feedback, and patch 1.1. Not all feedback is easy to digest. Sometimes it's sour, spicy, and hard to swallow. But when it's rooted in genuine player experience, rather than gripes aimed at the devs, player feedback can reveal exactly what a game needs to grow.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id1528199331Flux Plushies: https://www.makeship.com/products/flux-juicebox-plushie00:33 Intro00:51 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:09 Ten Years03:01 Studio News06:46 Patch 1.127:36 Difficulty Modes53:15 Co-pilotOther things mentioned: Game Maker's Notebook Podcast: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5MU_Hled44)To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we sit down with the trio behind Future Suit Games, Abram, Adam, and Kristi, to talk about their journey building an indie studio from the ground up. We dive into their upcoming debut title Daughter of the Rift, a narrative-rich card battler that fuses emotional storytelling with deep strategy.Learn more about Future Suit GamesLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

When it comes to game jams, too many projects get shelved before they reach their full potential. In this episode, we're going to explore how jams and small projects can become launchpads for long-term opportunity with the right support. From mentorship and incubation to funding access and marketing guidance, learn how structured programs are helping developers turn prototypes into business-ready games and how you can do that too. Episode Shownotes Link:  

This week, we talk about verification woes, platform power, and the price of play. When a few platforms control all access to players, even the smallest speed bumps can become brick walls. The rules aren't always clear, and when they are, they aren't always evenly applied. Turns out, the real chokepoint in game dev isn't creativity, it's capitalism!Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id1528199331Flux Plushies: https://www.makeship.com/products/flux-juicebox-plushie00:24 Intro00:51 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:44 Bones to pick22:23 Game Prices35:21 AppleTo stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we sit down with Nicholas O'Brien, one of the most distinctive voices in narrative game design and critical play. As the founder of Essay Games, his groundbreaking work has earned recognition from The New York Times, The Guardian, and Kotaku, and has been showcased at top festivals like MAGFest, Narrascope, and Now Play This.Learn more about NicholasLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

What if the next great game studio doesn't come from the West? In this episode, Ben chats with Rob Wynne and Clark Kosene from Rising Tide Studios—an unannounced AAA-inspired indie team taking a bold leap: building a game that truly bridges Eastern and Western audiences. We dive deep into why the moat of Western AAA game development is disappearing fast—and how China, with more devs than the U.S. and EU combined, is already playing on equal footing. Rob and Clark share the untold story of how Rising Tide's founding team (ex-Activision and former Soulslike directors) aims to skip the slow forming-storming norm and go straight to "performing" with their next-gen isometric action roguelike. Why are Western games losing ground? Can a game truly appeal to both Western and Eastern markets?  How do you create narrative depth without sacrificing gameplay flow?  Why creativity thrives on constraints—and how Rising Tide harnessed it Clark also reflects on transitioning from screenwriting to games, and the team's surprising approach to embedding story: real-time commentary inspired by Chinese crosstalk comedy. Their goal? A game where narrative flows during gameplay—not in between. If you're interested in global game dev trends, narrative innovation, or the future of indie-AAA (triple-I) development, don't miss this conversation. Stay Connected: Ben Carcich (Host, Building Better Games) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-carcich Substack: https://bencarcich.substack.com Website: https://www.buildingbettergames.gg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BuildingBetterGames Rob Wynne (Co-founder, Rising Tide Studios) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robwynnestudiofounder Website: https://projectgreatwall.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RisingTideOfficial Clark Kosene (Narrative Lead) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clark-kosene-25745227 Website: https://kosenecreative.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kosenecreative4589 Rising Tide Studios Website: https://projectgreatwall.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RisingTideOfficial Get full uncut episodes & behind-the-scenes content: https://www.patreon.com/buildingbettergames

In this episode, we discuss plushies, shadow drops, and patch philosophy. Launch day sets the stage, but the first big update shapes how the game truly lands with its audience. Early feedback and thoughtful iteration helps a game become what it was always meant to be.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id1528199331Flux Plushies: https://www.makeship.com/products/flux-juicebox-plushie00:28 Intro00:51 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)02:01 Interviews06:49 Flux Plush08:14 Gloopy's CL2 knowledge notes22:45 Patch 1.1 Update46:42 Oblivion RemasteredOther Things Mentioned:Core Special: Crashlands 2 Interview(CORE SPECIAL: Crashlands 2 and Seth Coster interview)To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

Nicky and Eric interview game developer, Michael Cardinal, about his first ever release, Super Ultra Mustard Man! Super Ultra Mustard Man is a retro style platformer released in 2025 for PC. In the distant realm of Mustard Land a hero, named Super Ultra Mustard Man, defends Mustard Land from a wacky cast of villains.About us:Press Any Button hosts Nicky (a new gamer) and Eric (a lifetime gamer) are a married couple who both love video games. For every video game they will discuss its past (history of the game, developers story, and fun facts), present (game play, game review and strategy), and future (will there be a sequel?? A movie?)  BUT WAIT THERE'S MORE… Every game also comes with a challenge presented by the host that chose the game. If the challenge is not completed then whoever failed has to do a video game rap! So if you want to learn more about video games, hear some nerdy video game raps, or just have a good time this is the podcast for you.We try to cover all types of video games including:Retro and New video gamesPlaystation, Nintendo, Xbox, Sega, and PC gamesAny and all genres including RPG, Simulation, Beat em up, platforming, mystery, first person shooter, sandbox, puzzle, action adventure, etc.Follow us on  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pressanybutton_podcast/Credits:Nicky SmithEric LuedtkeSpecial Guest: Michael CardinalMusic by Michael Cardinal

This week, we talk about soundtracks, review scores, and mysterious absences. Reviews don't just highlight flaws; they can reveal the gap between expectations and reality. Even the smallest systems can leave a large impact.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id1528199331Flux Plushies: https://www.makeship.com/products/flux-juicebox-plushie00:22 Intro00:43 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)03:52 Crashlands 2 Launch Week12:53 Review Scores23:10 Sequel's Audience49:46 Post- Launch FeedbackTo stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we discuss launch stats, slippery servers, and squishy plushies. Crashlands 2 hit the ground running with five times the sales of the original and a tidal wave of new players! Steam charts lit up, bugs stayed quiet, and the community showed up in force. This one's for you, Shenanites — thanks for showing up and making the launch unforgettable

On this special bonus episode of Coffee with Bscotch, we celebrate the launch of Crashlands 2! We talk about the studio's journey and reflect on a decade of shenanigans, butterscotch-flavored and otherwise. If you're new around here, welcome! And if you've been with us for a while, thanks for sticking by us on this wild ride! We're thrilled that Crashlands 2 is finally out in the world, and we can't wait for y'all to dive in and see what five years of charming handcrafted chaos looks like.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam Wishlist: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:25 Intro00:50 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)To stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★