Podcasts about indie game development

This week the SuperPod Boiz are joined by Kate and Emily of No Small Games to discuss some influential indie games that played a big part in how they look at indie games today and how they helped to shape their gaming tastes. We also abolish horiscopes in favor of Ooblets. All hail Ooblets. CREDITS Aaron

SummaryIn this episode host Projektitachi speaks with Ghost Recon Wildlands lead writer Lewis Manalo, and level designer/Creative Director Matt Patak from Old Glory Studios about their transition from military careers to the gaming industry, their experiences working on major titles in the Clancyverse, and their new project, Victory's Grave Outflank. They discuss the evolution of gaming narratives, the challenges of game development, the role of AI, and their vision for creating a unique gaming experience that balances authenticity and accessibility. In this conversation, Matt Patak and Lewis Manalo share their insights on transitioning from gamers to developers, the challenges and rewards of indie game development, and the importance of finding one's niche in the industry. They discuss the role of writing in games, the significant impact of marketing on game development, and the evolving landscape of game ownership, particularly with the rise of live service models. The duo also shares their aspirations for Old Glory Studios and upcoming projects.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction03:22 Transition from Military to Gaming Careers09:25 The Evolution of the Clancyverse12:27 Creating Victory's Grave Outflank18:35 Game Mechanics and Strategic Planning24:35 Challenges in Game Development29:54 The Role of AI in Game Development34:17 Future Plans for Victory's Grave Outflank37:41 Transitioning from Gamer to Developer38:34 Diving into Indie Game Development40:14 Finding Your Niche in Game Development42:23 Learning Through Experimentation44:34 The Role of Writing in Game Development46:12 The Impact of Marketing on Game Development49:55 Understanding Game Budgets and Live Services51:09 The Future of Game Ownership57:36 Old Glory Studios: Future AspirationsJoin Our NewsletterSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/gzchopshop. Support us by becoming a GZ Chop Shop member at https://plus.acast.com/s/gzchopshop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary:Mondae Atughonu, co-founder of Leap of Faith Studios, shares his journey from being a chemist and hospital manager to leading an indie game studio. This inspiring story highlights his transition from a non-gaming background to game development, his passion for creative problem-solving, and the studio's mission to innovate within the industry. Through their flagship game Haven, Mondae and his team are embracing community feedback, operational soundness, and a philosophy of "taking the leap."5 Key Takeaways: From Science to Gaming (Timestamp: 02:00)Mondae transitioned from a career as a chemist and hospital manager during COVID-19 to learning game development through Unity and Unreal Engine, showcasing the power of reinvention and passion for gaming. The Power of Taking the Leap (Timestamp: 08:19)The philosophy of "taking the leap" drives Leap of Faith Studios. Mondae emphasized the value of calculated risks and learning from failure as key principles for personal and professional growth. Innovative Gameplay in Haven (Timestamp: 10:13)Haven introduces unique mechanics, like a companion system where animals contribute to survival strategies (e.g., wolves hunting for food, squirrels gathering materials), blending creativity with functionality. AAA vs. Indie Dynamics (Timestamp: 13:29)Mondae contrasted the rigid structures of AAA studios like Bungie with the nimbleness of indie development, where smaller teams can quickly adapt and respond to player feedback. Preparing for GDC (Timestamp: 34:16)Leap of Faith's opportunity to showcase Haven at GDC reflects their ambitious vision and commitment to excellence, aiming to attract investment and expand their reach in the industry.Key Quotes: "Taking the leap is not about avoiding failure; it's about learning so much from it that the next leap feels natural." (08:19) "Working in AAA taught me the importance of structure, but indie gaming gives us the freedom to innovate faster and better." (13:29) "Seeing someone play your game and truly connect with it is the most fulfilling moment for any developer." (06:16)Where to Find:Website: Leap of Faith StudiosLinkedIn: Mondae AtughonuTopics Covered: 0:00 – 2:00: Introduction to Mondae and Leap of Faith Studios. 2:01 – 10:12: Mondae's transition from chemistry to gaming. 10:13 – 13:28: Unique features in Haven. 13:29 – 17:07: AAA vs. Indie game development dynamics. 17:08 – 36:59: Preparing for GDC and Leap of Faith's vision.

One of the things I need to more on the show is interview indie game devs and this week's episode is my first attempt in a long while to do that. I'm joined by Australian game designer Sam Leitch to talk about his upcoming game Wren's Resurgence. Sam was incredibly kind and asked for feedback on his demo during the recording! It was a really fun experience for me to get a small peak behind the curtain of indie game development and I hope you all enjoy it as well! Follow Sam on Twitter! https://twitter.com/SoliloquyGames1 Check out Wren's Resurgence on Steam! https://store.steampowered.com/app/2728260/Wrens_Resurgence/ Shout-out Song: Aerith's Theme Artist: Dj CUTMAN & Azodi Album: N/A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-H2LCB6_GQQ End Song: Disco Absolution Artist: Chjolo Album: N/A https://gamechops.com/disco-absolution/ Get Still Loading Podcast merch! https://www.teepublic.com/user/still-loading-podcast Check out the Bit by Bit Foundation! https://www.bitbybitfoundation.org/ Support the Podcast! https://www.patreon.com/stillloadingpod

「「SANABI」が「2024 INDIE GAME DEVELOPMENT AWARD」において「最高のアクションアドベンチャーゲーム（Best Action Adventure Game）」を受賞！」　NEOWIZは、同社がサービスし、WONDERPOTIONが開発している2Dアクションプラットフォーマゲーム「SANABI」について、中国で開催された「2024 INDIE GAME DEVELOPMENT AWARD」にて「最高のアクションアドベンチャーゲーム（Best Action Adventure Game）」を受賞したことを明かした。

Description: In this episode, Greg Posner chats with Patrick Jesseman, founder of Alkemi Labz. They discuss the intricacies of indie game development, the importance of a small, dedicated team, and the innovative techniques used to create high-quality games. Patrick shares his journey from film to game development and highlights the tools and strategies that make Alkemi Labz' projects stand out.Main Topics and Timestamps: 01:00: Transition from film to game development 02:30: Innovative techniques in indie game development 11:00: Importance of a small, agile team 20:00: The impact of new tools and technologies 30:00: Overcoming industry challengesKey Topics: Efficient Use of Small Teams: Leveraging a small, focused team for maximum impactBalancing roles and responsibilities among team members Utilizing Advanced Tools: Implementing tools like Unreal Engine, Nanite, and LumenBenefits of using high-quality assets and AI-driven tools Story-Driven Game Development: Combining cinematic storytelling with interactive gameplayCreating immersive narratives and engaging player experiences Overcoming Industry Challenges: Navigating the complexities of indie game productionStrategies for maintaining creativity and innovation under constraints Community and Collaboration: Building a supportive indie game development communityCollaborating with other developers and tech innovatorsGuest Bio: Patrick Jesseman is the founder of Alkemi Labz, a cutting-edge indie game studio known for its innovative use of technology and cinematic storytelling. With a background in film and extensive experience in game development, Patrick brings a unique perspective to the industry.Resources and Links: Alkemi Labz Visit our Player Engage website for more information. Follow Patrick Jesseman on LinkedIn. Subscribe to the Player Engage Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to another episode of The Gamerheads Podcast! Join us for a captivating chat with Rob and Anthony from Three Flipped Studios, creators of Armed and Gelatinous. Learn how their hands-on marketing with custom arcade cabinets redefined their presence in a crowded market. Hear about the challenges and triumphs of navigating the arcade industry and why they cherish local multiplayer experiences. Packed with insights and heartfelt stories, this episode showcases the passion behind creating beloved indie games. Don't miss it! Support the Show.Here are a few ways you can support Gamerheads!Leave us a review!Not only does your review help fellow gamers discover our podcast, but it also provides valuable insights for us as content creators. Your feedback serves as a compass, guiding us in crafting episodes that cater to your interests, addressing topics that matter to you, and enhancing your overall listening experience. Your words have the power to influence the direction of future episodes and ensure that we continue delivering content that captivates and engages. Review us on Goodpods! Review us on Apple Podcasts! Review us on Spotify! Join our Discord!In The Gamerheads Podcast Discord, you'll find a haven for lively discussions, where you can chat about the latest releases and share your gaming experiences with fellow gamers.Join our Patreon today https://www.patreon.com/gamerheadsFollow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/GamerheadsPodMusic: Jeff Dasler - Recused ...

Game developer and creative director of Stumbling Cat studio Renee Gittins joins us to talk about the challenges and rewards of developing an indie game like her recent game Potions: A Curious Tale and being a woman in the industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of the Indie Game Development podcast, I open up about a challenging seven-month period where I completely stopped making devlogs for my game, Samurado. Frustrated by their lack of traction and the effort they required, I grew bitter and disillusioned, ultimately giving up on them entirely. This decision was fueled by a misguided attempt to mimic the success of YouTubers like Dani, leading me down a path of self-doubt and exhaustion. However, a pivotal moment came when I was reminded of the authenticity and passion that initially drew me to game development. I realized that success on YouTube and in game development isn't about emulating others or chasing metrics; it's about staying true to yourself and sharing your unique journey. My hope in sharing my story is that some of these hard lessons I have learned may help even one person to avoid making the same mistakes and keep the passion and joy for game dev alive.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this eye-opening episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we take a hard look at the current state of the video game industry. It's no secret that free-to-play games have been utilizing manipulation and behavioral psychology to encourage players to spend money, but what's alarming is how these tactics are seeping into AAA titles. We delve into the mechanics behind free-to-play games and how they target different player personas to maximize profits. From achievers seeking faster progression to socializers interested in cosmetics, game designers have honed their strategies to exploit psychological triggers and turn games into addictive hobbies. But how exactly do they accomplish this? We uncover the intricate tactics employed, from anchoring pricing to scarcity and loss aversion, all designed to break down players' defenses and encourage spending. The shift towards free-to-play models in AAA games raises questions about the future of the industry. Can companies balance profitability with ethical game design?  The gaming industry is at a crossroads, and it will take innovative ideas and collaborative efforts to ensure a future where games are enjoyed for their creativity and entertainment value, not just their profit potential.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we tackle a persistent myth in the industry that devlogs are only for developers, not gamers. It's a narrative many of us have bought into, myself included. But what if we've been missing the mark all along? We dive deep into the world of indie marketing, exploring why traditional methods often fall short in a landscape oversaturated with content. Sure, making a good game is essential, but it's just the first step. Social media posts and reaching out to YouTubers and streamers help, but they're not guarantees. What sets devlogs apart is their ability to build trust and a loyal audience over time. They offer a unique opportunity for developers to become influencers in their own right while creating their games. And contrary to popular belief, they're not just for developers. We share stories of indie developers who have defied the odds and found success through devlogs, reaching gamers directly and building excitement around their projects. From seasoned creators to high school students, the power of authentic storytelling shines through. So if you've ever doubted the effectiveness of devlogs or wondered if they're worth the effort, this episode is for you. Join us as we challenge the status quo and explore how this often-overlooked marketing tool could be the key to unlocking your game's full potential. And hey, if you're curious about our own devlogs for Samurado, check us out on Youtube!  

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we sit down with Zak Knight, an audio expert and professional musician and we dig DEEP into the world of video game music and sound design! With a musical background spanning over 25 years, Zak's expertise isn't just about notes and chords; it's about capturing the essence of creativity and emotion in every piece of music he works on. As a professional musician, producer, and educator, Zak brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, drawing from 15 years of hands-on experience in recording studios, writing, producing, and engineering music. But what really sets Zak apart is his recent move into indie game development, spearheading his upcoming indie game project, Bird Knight. Join us as Zak shares his insights on how music can shape the very core of your game, whether you're a solo developer or part of a team. From DIY composition tips to navigating the landscape of hiring composers, Zak answers all of our game dev music questions and gives a ton of practical advice and resources to help you get started with your own indie game audio journey. Check out Zak's Website & Social: https://www.instagram.com/birdknightgame https://earthtidestudios.com.au/ https://www.youtube.com/@EarthtideStudios   Zak's Resource Recommendations can be found in the description of the Youtube interview: https://youtu.be/7DcJj4f7HPo

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we dive deep into the shifting terrain of the gaming industry. With major layoffs hitting AAA studios and a relentless focus on monetization over fun, indie developers face a daunting challenge: how to stand out amidst the chaos. The introduction of free game development tools has empowered small teams and individuals to create high-quality games, revolutionizing the industry. Yet, as technology advances, so do the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI integration and monetization strategies. We explore the moral implications of these tools and how indie developers can leverage them without compromising their integrity. Moreover, there's a significant opportunity for indies to fill the void left by AAA studios, catering to gamers craving unique experiences beyond the repetitive churn of mainstream titles.  Join us as we navigate the tumultuous seas of game development, offering insights and strategies for indie devs to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. By honing their skills and embracing creativity, indie developers can keep the spirit of fun alive in gaming.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast we're sharing our ultimate guide for launching your game dev journey in 2024! Here's your quick roadmap: Engine Selection Pricing  Programming Paths Asset Acquisition Hands-on Learning Game Jams Month-long Projects Remember, it's all about taking small steps and enjoying the journey. Let's kickstart your game dev adventure!

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Welcome to The Indie Game Development podcast! Today, we're exploring the genius level design of Super Meat Boy. Ed McMillan, known for his quirky games like The Binding of Isaac, created a masterpiece with Super Meat Boy. Unlike Mario, this platformer keeps it simple with basic moves: walk, run, jump, and wall jump. But don't be fooled – it gets insanely challenging. Ed's level design is brilliant, introducing new mechanics and hazards at the perfect pace. From dodging saws to navigating disappearing blocks, each level builds upon the last, testing your skills in new ways. Super Meat Boy teaches players without holding their hand, making it a masterclass in game design. It proves that you don't need complex mechanics to make a great game – just solid gameplay and clever level design.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Join host Brandon on The Indie Game Development podcast as he sits down with Matt of Watt Designs, the mastermind behind the highly anticipated "Isle Goblin" – one of Steam's most wishlisted indie games. In this episode, Matt shares his remarkable journey, starting as a pixel art hobbyist and evolving into a prominent figure in indie game development. Discover the secrets behind Watt's recent success with a 30-day game release, "This is Hell," that garnered positive reviews on Steam. With nearly 50,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel, Watt discusses his insights into content creation and offers valuable tips for aspiring developers navigating the indie gaming landscape. Don't miss this inspiring episode, where Brandon and Matt delve into the highs and lows of indie game development, providing listeners with a glimpse into the captivating world of creating Isle Goblin.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, our host Brandon, reflects on the unexpected twists in his 90-day challenge to publish a game on Steam. What started as a quick project became a 7-and-a-half-month emotional rollercoaster. Brandon openly discusses feelings of embarrassment and imposter syndrome, revealing the human side of game development. Despite meticulous planning, the episode unveils underestimated timeframes and project management challenges, dispelling the notion of scope creep. This episode serves as a raw and relatable resource for indie developers, offering insights into the highs and lows of the creative process. 

Tk Gorgonia is the CEO and Founder of Get Slapped!, the development studio behind the upcoming Get Slapped!. Get Slapped!'s contact info: https://getslappedgame.com Consider joining my Patreon. Patrons enjoy exclusive content, such as bloopers, as well as early access to all of my interviews. Interviews are posted in the Patreon within 48 hours of being recorded, which is often months before they show up on podcast apps. Here is my Patreon link: patreon.com/indiegameINTL Follow me on Twitter: @IndieGameIntl Email me at: sumadrepodcasts (at) gmail (dot) com IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/ Thank you for being here!

Today we sit down with the Daytime Devs who recently released there first game Super Bawk Bawk Chicken, after playing there game at AVCON 2023 I was very curious to hear there story and how we got here. ==========Guest Links========== Website: https://www.daytimedevs.com/games/super-bawk-bawk-chicken/ Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2054850/Super_BAWK_BAWK_Chicken/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DaytimeDevs YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@daytimedevs/ ==========Support The Show========== ► Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/brodierobertson ► Paypal: https://www.paypal.me/BrodieRobertsonVideo ► Amazon USA: https://amzn.to/3d5gykF ► Other Methods: https://cointr.ee/brodierobertson =========Video Platforms==========

magicdweedoo, aka dweeds, is the developer of many games, including the upcoming Dryft City Kyngs. dweeds was called out by my past guest Nicholas McDonnell, developer of KILLBUG (episode 196). Nonsense Machine's contact info: https://nonsensemachine.com.au Consider joining my Patreon. Patrons enjoy exclusive content, such as bloopers, as well as early access to all of my interviews. Interviews are posted in the Patreon within 48 hours of being recorded, which is often months before they show up on podcast apps. Here is my Patreon link: patreon.com/indiegameINTL Follow me on Twitter: @IndieGameIntl Email me at: sumadrepodcasts (at) gmail (dot) com IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/ Thank you for being here!

Jake Gaule, aka Submerged Tapes, is the composer and sound designer for Automatoys.  Automatoys was previously featured on IGI when I interviewed the developer, Steffan Glynn, aka Idle Friday (episode 185). Jake's contact info: https://submergedtapes.com Consider joining my Patreon. Patrons enjoy exclusive content, such as bloopers, as well as early access to all of my interviews. Interviews are posted in the Patreon within 48 hours of being recorded, which is often months before they show up on podcast apps. Here is my Patreon link: patreon.com/indiegameINTL Follow me on Twitter: @IndieGameIntl Email me at: sumadrepodcasts (at) gmail (dot) com IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/ Thank you for being here!

Isaac and Virgilio Cortez are the co-founders of Hyper Three Studio, developer of The Shape of Things (2023).  Isaac and Virgilio have been featured on IGI three times in the past (episodes 04, 05, and 34) for their previous game, Tiny lands (2021). Hyper Three Studio's contact info: https://www.hyperthreestudio.com Consider joining my Patreon. Patrons enjoy exclusive content, such as bloopers, as well as early access to all of my interviews. Interviews are posted in the Patreon within 48 hours of being recorded, which is often months before they show up on podcast apps. Here is my Patreon link: patreon.com/indiegameINTL Follow me on Twitter: @IndieGameIntl Email me at: sumadrepodcasts (at) gmail (dot) com IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/ Thank you for being here!

Kevin Colegate is the co-developer of The Tartarus Key (2023) from Vertical Reach. The Tartarus Key is a mystery first-person puzzle game with lite horror elements. I played through the game on Steam and very much enjoyed it. You can also get it on Switch, Playstation, Xbox, and Switch.  In this episode we will disucss programming, adhering to multiplatform game development, prototyping, creating PS1-era visuals, writing, puzzle design, advice on handling criticism from team mates, and more. The Tartarus Key on Steam The Tartarus Key on Switch The Tartarus Key on Xbox The Tartarus Key on Playstation The Tartarus Key on the web: https://www.tartaruskey.com Vertical Reach on the web: http://verticalreach.pt The Tartarus Key on Twitter: @TartarusKey IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

We're pulling back the curtain on the world of indie game development. Join us as we sit down with the dynamic trio from Daylight Basement Studios — Chris, Mike, and Garrett, the masterminds behind the game, Rightfully Beary Arms. We get an insider's look at the journey that brought these three together, from their initial meeting at IBM to the formation of their gaming studio. Their passion for game development shines through as they share their experiences and the challenges they overcame to bring their vision to life.Ready to immerse yourself in a universe filled with vibrant colors, impressive graphics, and unique 3D aesthetics? Rightfully Beary Arms does just that, and we dive headfirst into how these elements were used to create a world that can captivate and engross players. And if the immersive visuals weren't enough, prepare to be amazed by the game's charm — from their hilarious dialogues to their roguelike mechanics. And the icing on the cake? Garrett's brilliant music composition that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the game and takes the experience to a whole new level.Finally, we take you through the final stretch of our journey with Daylight Basement Studios by discussing the challenges and the joy of game development. The conversation with Garrett reveals the importance of understanding the game's brand before composing its music and how he managed to balance various aspects of the project. And as a special treat, we let you in on some of the hilarious lines that had us in splits. All this and more, in one insightful and entertaining episode. Don't forget to check the game out on Steam and visit the game's website. So, strap in and enjoy the ride!Wishlist Rightfully, Beary Arms: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1928030/Rightfully_Beary_Arms/Check out Daylight Basement Studios: https://daylightbasementstudio.com/Support the showJoin our Discord!Support the show! Join our Patreon today. https://www.patreon.com/gamerheadsWe have three different, affordable tiers. Gamerheads Internship - $3/month The Gamerheads Newsletter Patron shout-out Entered for a chance to win monthly giveaways Production Support Staff - $5/month The Gamerheads Newsletter Merch Patron shout-out Entered for a chance to win monthly giveaways Gamerheads Board Member - $10/month The Gamerheads Newsletter Merch Patron shout-out Fan requests - Vote on the game we collectively talk about Fan requests - Ask us questions! Entered for a chance to win monthly giveaways Follow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/GamerheadsPodSend us an email: info@gamerheadspodcast.comMusic: Jeff Dasler - RecusedScott Gratton - Wheel IntroVarious Artists - Return to Control Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

Jack Breen is the founder and solodev at Studio Hybrid, developer of the upcoming GigaSword. GigaSword is a 2D pixelart metroidvania with very fun and clever mechnics. The demo is currently available on Steam. I really enjoyed my time with the demo and i cnnot wait for the final release! In this episode we will dicuss learning game dev in high school, prototyping, creating a vertical slice, enemy design, level design, developing a platformer with limited or no jumping, solodev, and more. GigaSword on Steam GigaSword on Kickstarter Studio Hybrid on Twitter: @Hybrid_Games_ Hybrid Plays on Youtube: @HybridPlays IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

Validating any game concept can be a huge challenge for game creators. And if you're not hitting the target dead on, it can cost valuable time and resources. But just validating a product in a demanding market doesn't mean it's enough to stand out.  Usually, this comes down to looking at the whole picture from a different lens. Sometimes, that means distancing yourself from the crowd and taking a roguelike approach to really differentiate yourself. Ep 309 Shownotes:

Damien Dessagne is the CEO of Embers, developer of Strayed Lights (2023) and Maxime Philipp is the project's game Director. I discovered Strayed Lights at PAX East 2023. Strayed Lights is a 3D action game with a wordless story and very disctinct visuals. I played it on Playstation, but you can also get it on Xbox, Switch, and PC. The gameplay is difficult, demanding, and ultimately rewarding. I recommend it! In this episode we will discuss creating a game dev company, project management, wordless storytelling, designing boss battles, playtesting, developing a tutorial, creating platform-specific features for your multi-platform game, hitting deadlines, showing your game at PAX, inflation in the games industry, and much more. Strayed Lights on Steam Strayed Lights on Playstation Strayed Lights on Switch Strayed Lights on Xbox Strayed lights on the web: https://embers.games Strayed Lights on Twitter: @EmbersGames IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

Alex Ritchie was the Art Lead and Mikey did art and 3D animation for DREDGE (2023) from Black Salt Games. DREDGE is a fishing adventure/management game with dark and sinister undertones to its story and atmosphere. It is my current GOTY 2023 and I can't recommend it enough. it's available on PC, Playstation, Xbox, and Switch. In today's episode we will discuss the art of DREDGE, technical art, shaders, developing your first OIP, marketing, and more. DREDGE on Steam DREDGE on Switch DREDGE on Playstation DREDGE on Xbox Black Salt Games on Twitter: @BlackSaltGames Black Salt Games on the web: https://www.blacksaltgames.com IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

Morgan Taylor is a voice actor who provided a voice to Claire from 2022's Choo-Choo Charles. Choo-Choo Charles is a horror game in which the player must help survivors of attacks from a giant blood-thirsty train/spider hybrid and defeat it once and for all. It's extremely weird but alos very fun! You can get it on PC. Morgan also voices a character in Slopecrashers, a game that's been featured on IGI in the past! In today's episode, we will discuss gear, hosting a radio show, advice for auditioning, pay-to-play voice acting websites, dealing with criticism, vocal combats, and much more. Choo-Choo Charles on Steam Morgan Taylor on the web: https://morgantaylorproductions.com Morgan Taylor on Instagram: @the.morgan.taylor Morgan Taylor on Twitter: @MorganTaylor_ IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

Information can be a valuable and powerful tool for anyone. Whether you're providing or receiving information, it can make all the difference in helping others reach their goals and your own.  However, the context and intent of how information is created and received can impact our decisions, and direction and influence others. That's why we'll be discussing the importance of how to navigate and use information with proper context so we're being mindful and efficient in how we apply it to ourselves and everything else we do.

The path to success as a game studio is full of obstacles and opportunities. Reflection and outlook are a common theme here on the show, as well as the theme of fostering a healthy culture and mindset. And that of course, starts with having a strong foundation and doing things a little differently. Today we're meeting with the co-founders of Astral Clocktower Studios to explore how they took a three-pronged approach to build their studio by leveraging their different perspectives and skillsets to create a foundation that promotes growth and opportunity.

Whenever we consider how to beat the odds and stand out with our games, lots of times we tend to only focus on the product itself. This manifests itself in various ways but it often boils down to focusing on a lot of different things that don't always lead to solving big problems you or your studio face.  So in this special masterclass-thought experiment episode, we're going to discuss and contemplate how you can be more focused, understand what being mindful of your time really means for you and your studio and how to leverage that information to scale and become a leader. 

There are a number of reasons to start an independent game studio, but the practical side of the process can be quite daunting especially when you don't have any kind of a track record.  Today we'll be discussing some aspects of starting a new studio and how you can leverage past experiences to build traction with your game while receiving support from partnerships.

Working in the games industry has become more and more coveted as the medium has evolved over recent decades. With this boom of up-and-coming devs, more and more misinformation pervades the conversation. Today we'll be debunking some myths about what it means to join the game industry while sharing ideas on how we can improve it…and even yourself.

The marketing of games is a delicate balance and requires a lot of careful thought. Between hitting your development milestones and determining how those can align with your marketing, there's not always a straightforward answer to what you should be doing and when.  However, our guest today discusses ways to approach this and how to implement events and other beats into your marketing strategy so you're not only prepared to adapt, but are able to maximize your campaign results as well. 

There are lots of different ways to create awareness for your games, from events to marketing beats, but none quite get the blood flowing and momentum going than having a committed and loyal fanbase.  Today, we talk with Alx Preston and Yiyi Zhang of Heart Machine and take a look at their past and upcoming titles to discuss how their fanbase influenced important decisions and drove them to build impactful experiences.

Daniel Stubbington is the Founder of Stubby Games, developer of The Entropy Centre (2022). I have previously featured voice actors Kasey Miracle and Chloe Taylor on IGI for their work on the game. The Entropy Centre is a first-person, science fiction puzzle game with exceptional writing and heady puzzles. The game is available on PC, Playstation, and Xbox and it is published by Playstack. It was my #5 game on the "IGI's Top 22 Games of 2022" special episode. I think it is a fantastic game and I highly recommend it! In this episode we will discuss what does "solodev" mean in the context of The Entropy Centre?, acquiring a publisher, writing a compelling narrative game script, the Unreal Engine, creating engaging optional written lore, puzzle game pacing, paper prototyping, greyboxing, advice on pitching to a publisher, and much more. The Entropy Centre on Steam The Entropy Centre on Playstation The Entropy Centre on Xbox Stubby Games on Twitter: @Stubby_Games The Entropy Centre on Twitter: @EntropyCentre IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

Andrew and Mustapha have a lot of exciting updates we're happy to share with you in this update, and you might say that one of them is a "game" changer.   

Lucas Bonatti is the Creative Director at Regular Studio, developer of Togges (2022). Togges is a fantastic game. It's a 3D non-linear platformer/collectathon set in a weird and wonderful universe. It has amazing visuals, really fun and unique gameplay mechanics and traversal, and a super energetic and awesome sense of humor. I really, really like this game. I'm really excited that I was able to talk about its development with the developer. It's available on all the major concoles and PC.  In this episode we will discuss influences for such a weird game, creating a game with “incredible, credible” mechanics and story, cutting ideas to maintain scope, porting, performance, and optimization, scope control, UI and menu design, playtesting and player feedback, and much more. Togges on Steam Togges on Switch Togges on Playstation Togges on Xbox Togges on the web: http://togges.com.br Togges on Twitter: @ToggesGame IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

A quick update regarding the show. 

Erik X. Raj is a Speech-Language Pathologist and the developer of Jump Rogi, a web-based game about jumping and overcoming your fears. Erik creates games partly as a teaching tool for his young clients. I really enjoyed Jump Rogi and it is free to play here. You can find out more about what Erik is up to, and his other games on his website. In today's episode we will discuss what is a Speech-Language Pathologist?, teaching communication through video games, digital therapy tools, educational games, playtesting, accessibility, and much more. Jump Rogi on the web: https://www.jumprogi.com Erik X. Raj on the web: https://erikxraj.com Erik on Twitter: @erikxraj IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

This is Part 2 of our end-of-the-year holiday special episode filled with fun and cheer AND an important message about the podcast. This year we invite a bunch of past guests where we ask them some random holiday questions while we discuss and reflect on the past year and how what we learned will shape our outlook for the new year! 

Anders Westin is the CEO of Might and Delight, developers of many games, including Pid (2011). I played Pid on my Switch and I have since also played it on Steam. Pid is a 2.5D puzzle platformer with very clever mechanics that are fun to learn but difficult to master. I highly recommend this game! In today's episode we will discuss working in AAA, developing and releasing indie games in 2011, self-publishing a game in 2011, making a game too difficult, and much, much more! Pid on Steam Pid on Switch Might and Delight on the web: https://mightanddelight.com Might and Delight on Twitter: @MightAndDelight IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

When it comes to running a studio or creating a game, it's essential to be focused on your core mission. However, sometimes we get too caught up in the details of making that happen we end up missing out on life-changing experiences and valuable opportunities.  Today our guest shares her experiences of how taking on side quests not only helped drive her studio's goals but created numerous opportunities, successes, and personal growth that likely wouldn't have been possible if she only focused on her main mission.

David Gueringer joins to discuss JANKEN JUTSU!: Ninja Rock-Paper-Scissors JANKEN JUTSU! is an explosive battle card game where players use their intuition and wits to land a hit on their opponent. We talk gameplay, game development and more! Learn more about the game - https://www.thegamecrafter.com/crowdsale/janken-jutsu-:-ninja-rock-paper-scissors -- Broadcast From The Dispatch is a weekly podcast show produced by Indie Comix Dispatch that explores trends and topics relating to independent, creator-owned, and small press comics. You can find out more about Indie Comix Dispatch, read our indie comic news, reviews, and more at https://indiecomixdispatch.com . Sponsored By - Comix Well Spring Patreon - https://patreon.com/indiecomixdispatch --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/indiecomixdispatch/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/indiecomixdispatch/support

No matter what platform you use, it's always a challenge to create any kind of growth with your community. But sometimes, being resourceful, having the right mindset and keeping some information handy can be all that you need to create growth for your community. Thankfully, Jared Tan shares his experiences, processes and how he goes about making the most out of helpful information to find opportunities that can lead to exponential growth.

Our guests this week are poof and b33f of EtherOrcs. EtherOrcs is the world's first 100% on-chain NFT game. In EtherOrcs, Orcs and their allies go on raids, pillage villages, explore the unknown, and more. Through the course of the game, players can earn better gear and more NFTs through strategic gameplay built on the Ethereum blockchain. In this week's podcast we dive into the world of web3 indie game development – including EtherOrcs unconventional path to market and what the creators would do differently if they had a second go at things. Poof and b33f chime in with their thoughts on the current web3 game economy and share their insights on different web3 game fundraising models. They also dive into why EtherOrcs has shunned mainstream gamers in favor of going after native web3 gamers. Plus, we discuss the latest news from Apple – including the release of SKAdNetwork 4.0, a change to App Store policy on social media post boosts, and a change in Apple's policy around NFTs. Additionally, we discuss Reddit's continuing submersion into NFTs and how it's impacting the overall marketplace. SOURCES & MORE: https://upptic.com/web3-indie-game-development-etherorcs-app-talk-with-upptic/

Dave Gilbert is the Founder of Wadjet Eye Games, developers of many games, including The Shivah, Unavowed, and the upcoming Old Skies. Dave has been making indie games since 2006, when The Shivah was released. I have played The Shivah, Unavowed, and the demo for Old Skies and I enjoyed all of them immensly. The Old Skies demo is currently available on Steam! In this episode we will discuss writing a time travel story, voice acting, play testing, publishing other developer's games, and more. Old Skies demo on Steam The Shivah on Steam Unavowed on Steam Wadjet Eye Games on the web: wadjeteyegames.com Wadjet Eye Games on Twitter: @WadjetEyeGames IGI on Twitter: @IndieGameINTL Consider becoming an IGI Patron: https://www.patreon.com/indiegameINTL IGI is a production of Su Madre Podcasts: https://sumadrepodcasts.com/

Host Miles Goldsmith interviews Liam Edwards about his work on the video game Cursed to Golf.   Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2022. All rights reserved   Follow us @GameDesignHour   https://linktr.ee/Gamedesignhour 

Episode DescriptionNeil Jones is a game artist currently working out of Detroit, MI. Jones is an artist and game designer who worked on indie titles like Clique and Aerial Knight's Never Yield.Neil garnered a lot of attention after his game was featured as part of Nintendo's 2021 indie world showcase.We talk with him about creating new DLC for Never Yield through listening to fan feedback, and the trials and tribulations of indie game development today.Hosted by Phillip Russell and Ben ThorpEpisode NotesYou can follow Neil Jones here.Visit our website: Originstory.showFollow us on Twitter @originstory_Do you have feedback or questions for us? Email us theoriginstorypod@gmail.comCover art and website design by Melody HirschOrigin Story original score by Ryan Hopper