Podcasts about indiedev

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: 

Coder's Socials Mike on X (https://x.com/dominucco) Mike on BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/dominucco.bsky.social) Mike's Blog (https://dominickm.com) Coder on X (https://x.com/coderradioshow) Coder on BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/coderradio.bsky.social) Show Discord (https://discord.gg/k8e7gKUpEp) Alice (https://alice.dev) Alice Forms (https://alice.dev/forms)

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: 

The publishing model most indie devs face is outdated and often stacked against them.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:   

Paul's Links Rogue Amoeba (https://rogueamoeba.com/) Coder's Socials Mike on X (https://x.com/dominucco) Mike on BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/dominucco.bsky.social) Mike's Blog (https://dominickm.com) Coder on X (https://x.com/coderradioshow) Coder on BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/coderradio.bsky.social) Show Discord (https://discord.gg/k8e7gKUpEp) Alice (https://alice.dev) Alice Forms (https://alice.dev/forms)

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:

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:  

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:  

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.

We back. We talked about the success of drug dealer simulator Schedule 1, a 24 year old starting a $300M startup called Superpower, Ryan Coogler's rare deal for Sinners that could destroy the Hollywood system and more!(0:00) Intro (01:37) Schedule 1(11:15) Superpower(28:59) Sinners Box Office(46:04) AI Companionship (59:06) Update on UsWatch episodes on YouTube or listen on Spotify/Apple: https://linktr.ee/listenunderqualifiedStalk us (we respond to DMs!):  / ishanhaque    / boys.archive  Listen to deleted clips:  / underqualifiedtalk  Work with us:hi@underqualified.studio

A lot of developers dream of starting their own studio, but the reality is far from glamorous. In this episode, we dive deep with our guest to unpack the overlooked, gritty, and often emotional process of building a studio from scratch. From pitching to production pipelines, they're going to share what aspiring founders need to prepare for, emotionally and operationally. Episode Shownotes Link:   

The game industry is full of risks, IP disputes, cyberattacks, contract issues, even failed crowdfunding campaigns. And while we never anticipate these things happening to us...sometimes, they surface when we least expect it, inviting all sorts of chaos. So today, we explore how devs can avoid the hassle of the unknown by understanding how insurance can help developers avoid disaster, stay protected, and keep projects moving, no matter the studio size. Episode Shownotes Link:  

This week Sydney (aka allsee) from CMY2K joins to talk about her solo indie game qualia. Covering themes on artificial intelligence, existentialism, and yearning, we break down the writing process and what it's like to ship your first game. We also cover the Nintendo and gaming news such as the Switch 2's ongoing tariff situation, pricing controversies, and much more. As always, we close with the games we've all been playing. Listen to Super Switch Headz on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you enjoy podcasts. 0:00:00 Introduction 0:06:30 News and Rumors 0:36:30 Qualia Developer Interview 1:33:44 Games We're Playing Play qualia on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3351080/qualia/ Discord: https://discord.com/invite/CWbF4gb Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/switchheadz Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SuperSwitchHeadz/ Website: http://www.switchheadz.com/ Clips Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@SwitchHeadzClips

Steam's algorithm is the engine that powers visibility on the platform, but understanding how it works is often a big mystery.  So today, we're going to bust some of the most common and persistent myths indie developers believe about how the algorithm functions, getting to the bottom of which signals actually matter, so you can stop worrying and focus on what really does. Episode Shownotes Link:  

In a challenging environment for the games industry, Ireland is creating "incredible incentives and structures" to support and "elevate" Irish game developers in "the way they deserve to be uplifted". This was the observation of Xalavier Nelson Jr., the BAFTA-nominated and Forbes 30 under 30 Studio Head of game developer and publisher Strange Scaffold, one of the key speakers at the FÍS Games Summit 2025, which took place last weekend in Galway, Ireland. Mr Nelson was responding to the announcement at the Summit of the Digital Games Portfolio, a major new fund designed to further develop and strengthen the Irish games industry's rapidly growing international reputation. The Digital Games Portfolio is a €500,000 funding scheme, launched by Screen Ireland, and which will be managed by Ardán, the Galway based organisation supporting creatives in film, TV, games, and animation, and Imirt, the national organisation for game developers and creators in Ireland. The DGP will fund a variety of new initiatives, the first of which will be IndieDev 2025, a cross-border prototype fund in collaboration with NI Screen to help teams of creators turn their game ideas into prototypes. The fund will also see Dublin and Galway become 'incubators' to support individuals at the early stage of their careers. There will also be a pilot development fund targeting established Irish game studios, to allow them develop IP within their work spaces. The funding comes at what Ardán CEO, Alan Duggan, called a "pivotal" moment and "an inflection point" in the Irish games industry. "There's a tremendous enthusiasm and vigour in the Irish games industry," he said. "We're swelling into a wave and that's really running contrary to a lot of what's happening internationally." Colm Larkin, CEO of Imirt, said: "At a State level, Ireland is looking at games and games developers as a culturally relevant art form and is saying, 'Yes, we need to support this.' This is just going to be the first step towards really growing our sector." The Minister for Arts, Culture, Media, Communications and Sport Patrick O'Donovan TD said: "The international games industry represents a huge contestable market, one in which Ireland can excel based on our technical, design and storytelling competencies. This funding combined with the recently introduced tax credit for games are key steps along the government's path to developing a national strategy for games." The future of the industry, AI, and creativity In his address, Xalavier Nelson Jr., said the games industry "makes miraculous art" but is poor at delivering on time, within budget, and in certain instances, quality. He noted how missing deadlines and exceeding budgets has become normalised within the industry, and said current industry models often prioritise long development cycles for single projects, leading to burnout and limiting opportunities for artists to experiment. He called on game developers to recognise they are artists, but also encouraged them to develop a strong business sense, in order to "confront these realities". Industry legend Tom Hall (Commander Keen, Wolfenstein 3D, Doom), who now works in Ireland as Design Lead at the Galway based Romero Games, explored the creative process. He encouraged game developers to embrace 'Drift Time', his concept of allowing the mind to wander freely in order to create. He encouraged Summit attendees to "play around with an idea" especially if it "may make you feel uncomfortable". Hall also advised developers to take a 'bottom-up' approach to game creation, in order to work out core gameplay issues and mechanics, instead of top-down design, where the story and universe are prioritised. AI and its role in the Games Industry was addressed by Finlay MacAree, Technical Director at Xbox Game Studios. He said while AI can enhance the creative process by generating ideas, assets, or code, allowing developers to focus on higher-level design and storytelling, AI itself "will never repl...

Ein Podcast von zwei App Entwicklern

In this episode, I share my GDC recap: a quarter-zip pullover, a virus, and a powerful reminder that change comes from within, not the event itself. I dive into how our intentions shape our relationships, why meaningful connections outshine superficial networking, and how the true impact of any event hinges on the mindset you bring to it. Episode Shownotes Link:  

In this episode, we talk with Kristi, a powerhouse in narrative design who transitioned from a successful copywriting career just two years ago. Since then, she's shaped the stories of over six indie titles, led narrative efforts on AA-sized projects, and is now taking on her biggest challenge yet, co-founding Future Suit Games and earning a spot in IGA's prestigious Foundy program. Kristi shares her expertise on storytelling, studio building, and taking bold leaps in the game industry.Learn more about KristiLearn 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.

Designing for mobile and PC might seem like a simple transition, but the reality is very different. Everything from screen sizes to monetization models requires a completely different approach. So today, for the first time ever on the podcast, we're talking with a team of four brothers who've been through this firsthand. We'll dive into what makes these platforms so different, the technical and design challenges of making the jump from mobile to PC, and what indie developers should keep in mind along the way. Plus, we'll explore how fresh perspectives can completely change the way we solve problems.    Episode Shownotes Link:  

This week, Zak and Aaron sit down for a delightful conversation with Kevin Messenhimer, one of the co-founders of the indie game studio Fiveamp. The trio covers a broad range of topics as they follow Kevin's journey from a member of Intel's hardware team to his time at Gearbox Software and eventually to the recent release of NIMRODS on Steam Early Access. It's chock-full of insights into the development process, humorous anecdotes, and entertaining asides that the whole family is sure to love. Well, maybe not the whole family, but the point stands.Please, enjoy.Listen to Beach Girl on SpotifyCheck out MosscatMarket on EtsyCheck out even more MosscatMarket on Instagram

The gaming landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, and it's indie developers who are leading some of the most exciting innovations. But what challenges do they still face, and how can small teams carve out success in an increasingly competitive market? In this episode, we explore how shifts in technology, business models, and industry trends are empowering smaller studios to make a bigger impact than ever before. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Developing an indie game is never a straight path as it's often a long road filled with challenges and unexpected twists. So today, we're goign to explore one person's journey in how they tackeled all sorts of obstacles and sucesses all while keeping momentum alive and fostering a dedicated community. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Indie studios often focus solely on their game, but what if their world could extend beyond the screen? So in today's epsidoe, our guest shares his expertise on transmedia storytelling—how indie developers can expand their IP across multiple platforms like comics, books, and film to build stronger brands and deeper player engagement. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Markus Neuert hat mit der Spielebranche beruflich eigentlich lange nichts mehr am Hut: 2013 war er noch Marketing Manager bei Daedalic und kümmerte sich um den Vertrieb von Spielen wie Goodbye Deponia und Blackguards, knapp zwei Jahre später ging's zu Bigpoint und dann war er schon wieder raus aus dieser Welt: Heute arbeitet er in einem Tech-Unternehmen, das mit Games überhaupt nichts am Hut hat. Aber: Da ist ja noch der Feierabend. Und den widmet Markus seit 2022 einem großen Traum - ein eigenes Spiel zu entwickeln. Jeden Tag, jedes Wochenende nahm sich der Familienvater ein paar Stunden Zeit, um an “Dead of Darkness” zu arbeiten, eine Pixel-Hommage an Resident Evil 1, inklusive Extra-Portion Übersinnliches und Gore-Brutalität. Nun ist sein Spiel ganz frisch erschienen, ich hab's gespielt, sehr gemocht - und Markus deswegen zum kleinen Interview eingeladen. Das findet ihr hier im Newsletter direkt zum anhören - oder im offenen Feed von OK COOL

Game music isn't just background noise—it's a storytelling tool that enhances gameplay and player engagement. In this episode, composer and game designer Tyler Mire shares how he crafts soundtracks that complement battle mechanics, amplify emotional moments, and make indie games stand out.     Episode Shownotes Link:  

Great games don't just happen—they're built on strong branding that resonates with players. But how do you convince a development team that brand matters just as much as gameplay? In this episode, we're going to break down how branding impacts everything from marketing to player engagement, and how developers can integrate branding into their creative process without sacrificing their vision. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Indie game development is a constant balancing act, espeicially when it comes to deciding where to invest our most important resources: time and money. So today, we'll explore the relationship we have with these resources, find creative ways to increase them and... how we should use them. But we don't stop there, as we'll discuss the role they play in how we validate concepts, going over everything from crowdfunding to one of the simplest and most effective ideas ever to validate a concept. And it requires very little time and money, and will save you a ton of both too. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Great games are built on collaboration, but it's not just between developers and partners, but with players themselves. Between insights and feedback, there's lots we can learn from players as long as we keep an open mind and a clear vision. However, getting that information or learning how to leverage it can be difficult. So today, we're going to explore how one publisher uses player insights to help inform everything from creative decisions, communication strategies and other approaches to ensure that games get the results needed to resonate with their audience. Episode Shownotes Link:    

Collaboration can transform the way indie game developers approach marketing and commercialization. In this episode, we dive into how shared resources, collective networks, and creative hubs empower indie studios to amplify their efforts and stand out in a competitive market.   Episode Shownotes Link:  

Greetings Earthlings! Amanda here. Part 1 of the game Dreamshark released recently on the Gameboy Color and ROM so you can play it on an emulator!  I sat down with the solo dev Benjamin McCarthy to talk about retro gaming, getting started on Kickstarter, Portland, music, and art as it relates to a world of Astro people and life on the moon in his game DreamShark. Beam me up, let's talk Astro people!  TIMESTAMPS Intro - 0:00 Why it gotta' B a GB? - 3:40    Biggest Challenge! - 8:16    Let's talk Portland - 13:33   The chicken and the egg...but music and pixels - 17:32   TAC's teachings - 20:13    This is for you, Earthlings! - 23:33    Kickstarter - 25:32  Shoutout to Chynna! - 29:26    How do you balance like TAC? - 30:32    Vending machines and what's next - 36:20    Staying in orbit and focused - 37:07    Post project projects - 41:32  Favorite character - 44:10    TARDI-G - 45:50    Where to get the game! - 50:03    To buy a physical or digital version of Dreamshark, visit https://www.dream-shark.com/! For more content, visit dlgaming.net! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Making meaningful progress requires more than resolutions—it starts with aligning your goals with your values for sustainable success. In this episode of Indie Game Movement, we dive into how to build momentum with clarity and purpose, sharing personal insights, actionable exercises, and real-world examples. Discover how to drive impactful results for your studio while avoiding burnout and staying true to your vision. Tune in and kick off the year with focus and efficiency! Episode Shownotes Link:    

In this episode, we sit down with Daedra Christopher, a veteran game designer behind some of the most iconic FPS franchises like Call of Duty, Warzone, and Halo. Renowned for her worldbuilding expertise and passion for immersive gameplay, Daedra shares insights from her storied career, her dedication to mentoring aspiring developers, and a sneak peek into her upcoming book on breaking into the gaming industry.Learn more about DaedraLearn 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 today's crowded gaming landscape, keeping players engaged in new and different ways is tougher than ever, but it doesn't mean there aren't creative solutions. In this episode, we dive into innovative approaches to rewarding customer loyalty in games, uncovering what works and doesn't in driving retention and creating memorable player experiences by crafting customer reward systems that deliver results. Episode Shownotes Link:      

Standing out in the indie game market requires more than a great concept, it demands mastering value perception. In this episode, we reveal how developers can increase their game's perceived value for publishers and players alike. So today, we'll learn how key value drivers can be used to amplify pitches and inform price strategies for long-term revenue and player trust. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Marketing indie games is an uphill battle, and not every marketing idea hits the mark where we would like it to. But through an open mind and some iteration, it's still very possible. So today, we're going on an iterative journey with our guest, and how they went about refining marketing approaches to determine what makes campaigns stand out in a crowded space. Episode Shownotes Link:  

Behind every game is a team of talented individuals, that shapes the culture, productivity, and success of game studios. But sometimes, miscommunication or unresolved conflicts can derail even the best projects. In this episode, we explore actionable insights into people-centric leadership, covering communication strategies, effective feedback, and managing difficult conversations so all teams can thrive in this dynamic industry. Episode Shownotes Link: 

In this special, unplanned bonus episode of the WhatCulture Gaming Podcast, Josh sits down with the Creative Director of Ritual Tides, James Macleod, to discuss one of next year's most ambitious horror games.Ash's interview here: https://youtu.be/En4Ip9fY0Sc?feature=shared Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pitching a game isn't just about the idea or talking to partners like publishers, it's about the delivery, timing, and knowing your audience. And properly executing a pitch in any context can be a daunting challenge. So today, we're going to dig deep into strategies for creating an impactful pitch. Whether it's capturing the attention of someone casually inquiring about your game to maximizing your presence at gaming events, we'll discuss how to create compelling pitches that can form meaningful connections and leave a lasting impression. Episode Shownotes Link:  

The mobile game market has become more challenging than ever, with rising costs, increased competition, and ever-changing algorithms, with so much to tackle it can get pretty overwhelming. Thankfully, today we're going to dive deep into the current issues the market is facing to uncover secrets that can elevate user acquisition and increase momentum in one of the most challenging game markets out there. Episode Shownotes Link: 

Every indie developer hopes their game will succeed, but building on that success takes smart planning well before that milestone is hit. In this episode, we'll explore practical strategies to help indie studios set strong foundations, position themselves for growth while attracting future opportunities and partnerships. So get ready as we share the tools to build up momentum now so your studio can thrive later. Episode Shownotes Link: 

As we wrap up the Master Class series, this bonus episode takes a deep dive into Patrick's course on creating irresistible games. Andrew has gone through the entire course, to provide a complete overview with key takeaways, strengths, personal thoughts on areas for improvement, and insights into who would benefit from the course and why it's a must for improving player engagement and building sustainable games. Please use the checkout link:   Shownotes page:  

In this episode, we're joined by an extraordinary voice in games media—an experienced journalist, podcaster, and editor-in-chief of Fearzine Magazine. With over five years of covering the gaming industry, he's interviewed everyone from indie devs to iconic talents like Nolan North. He shares his insights on fostering positivity in the indie game space while staying true to creative visions, even as industry expectations evolve. Get ready for a conversation packed with passion, expertise, and inspiration for creators everywhere.Learn more about DanLearn 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.

Welcome to the Indie Game Movement masterclass series! In this episode, we explore game-changing monetization strategies that balance revenue generation with player satisfaction. Our guest shares insights on innovative approaches, avoiding pitfalls, tracking trends, and refining models with player feedback.  If you're looking for sustainable revenue strategies that keep players happy, this episode is a must-listen. Want to get more from this episode and take further action? Learn more about the course Use code IGM for an exclusive discount!  Please note: The podcast will receive compensation if you purchase the course using the link above. This means the podcast will earn a commission if you purchase the course through the link, at no additional cost to you.   Episode Shownotes Link:

  Welcome to the Indie Game Movement masterclass series! Today, we're diving into the importance of player engagement and how it's crucial for the success of indie games. Our guest shares their approach to creating games that captivate players, exploring key engagement elements, player motivations, and strategies to measure and adapt. If you want to learn how to foster meaningful connections with your players, this episode is for you. Want to get more from this episode and take further action? Learn more about the course Use code IGM for an exclusive discount!  Please note: The podcast will receive compensation if you purchase the course using the link above. This means the podcast will earn a commission if you purchase the course through the link, at no additional cost to you.   Episode Shownotes Link:

Welcome to the Indie Game Movement masterclass series! In this episode, we tackle the challenges of hooking and engaging players. Our guest shares insights, lessons learned, and strategies to captivate players, avoid common pitfalls, and build games that truly resonate. Whether you're looking to improve engagement or refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you take your game to the next level!  Want to get more from this episode and take further action? Learn more about the course Use code IGM for an exclusive discount!  Please note: The podcast will receive compensation if you purchase the course using the link above. This means the podcast will earn a commission if you purchase the course through the link, at no additional cost to you. Episode Shownotes Link:

Just sharing a quick announcement about our upcoming Master Class Series.  Listen to find out more! 

The marketing landscape is constantly evolving, and it's not exclusive to any one area or focus, especially influencers. And for those who can adapt, will thrive. That's why today we're meeting with a couple of guests to discuss the changes in influencer marketing strategies and how studios and even publishers can adapt, shifting from traditional PR to influencer marketing to maximize their ROI. Between diving into tools, strategies, and mindset, we're going to cover everything needed to keep up with these changes and maximize your influencer marketing efforts.   Episode Shownotes Link: