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Episode Overview:
In this episode of Player Driven, Greg talks with Gareth Weatherley, the Senior Customer Relations Manager at Pearl Abyss. Gareth shares his journey in customer support across the gaming industry, the resurgence of game masters, and the balance between automation and human interaction in creating unforgettable player experiences. With insights from his time at Blizzard, Kakao Games, and now Pearl Abyss, Gareth offers a unique perspective on community building and player engagement.5 Key Takeaways:
The Evolving Role of Game Masters
Timestamp: [04:30]
Gareth discusses the return of game masters in modern MMOs, reflecting on their role in early games like EverQuest. He explains how Pearl Abyss is bringing back game masters to foster direct player interactions and make in-game events more engaging and personal. Balancing Automation with the Human Touch
Timestamp: [12:45]
Gareth talks about how automation and AI have improved efficiency in customer support but emphasizes the need for maintaining human engagement. He shares how direct player interactions, especially in critical moments, can enhance the overall gaming experience and build player loyalty. Memorable In-Game Events
Timestamp: [19:15]
A highlight of the episode is when Gareth recounts organizing a virtual wedding for a player during the COVID-19 lockdown. He details how this event brought the community together, creating a memorable experience that went beyond the screen and became a cherished memory for the players involved. Adapting to Player Expectations
Timestamp: [26:00]
Gareth reflects on his time at Blizzard and Kakao Games, discussing how player expectations have evolved over the years. He shares strategies for managing community feedback and the importance of being adaptable in response to player needs. Looking Ahead: The Future of Player Engagement
Timestamp: [32:40]
Gareth envisions the future of player support as a blend of automation for efficiency and personalized touches for meaningful engagement. He talks about how Pearl Abyss is positioning itself to remain at the forefront of community-driven support and the opportunities that lie ahead in evolving communication platforms.Episode Summary:
In this episode, Gareth Weatherley delves into the importance of direct player interaction, the return of game masters, and how balancing automation with human touch can make all the difference in player support. With heartwarming stories and strategic insights, Gareth offers a fresh perspective on creating a thriving gaming community. Tune in to learn how Pearl Abyss is setting a new standard for community engagement in the gaming industry. -
Episode Overview:
In this episode, Greg Posner interviews Fiene Ziegler, Senior Community Management Specialist at InnoGames. Fiene shares her journey into gaming, insights on merging community management with social media, the importance of data-driven strategies, and her vision for the future of player engagement. Her experience sheds light on how to effectively manage online communities in a dynamic industry and adapt to new platforms to reach a wider audience.Topics: Community Management, Social Media Strategy, Gaming Industry Trends, Player Engagement
Key Takeaways:
Journey to Gaming and Community Management
Fiene shares her unique journey from studying law to entering the gaming industry as a community manager. Her initial involvement was volunteer-based, leading her to a full-time role at InnoGames, where she manages community engagement for titles like Forge of Empires. Her background adds depth to her role, as she balances passion for gaming with the objectivity needed for community management. Importance of Game Knowledge and Player Perspective
Fiene emphasizes the value of knowing the game inside and out, even as a manager. By actively playing Forge of Empires, she stays in touch with the player experience, offering insights to developers and community managers. Her expertise positions her as a resource within InnoGames for game-related decisions, showing how deep product knowledge can enhance community relations and drive engagement. Social Media and Community Strategy
Fiene discusses the blending of community management with social media strategy, a trend she’s championed at InnoGames. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are essential for player engagement, though InnoGames finds certain platforms, like Facebook, more effective for its demographic. Fiene advocates for tailored content that resonates with current players while reaching new audiences organically. Leveraging Data and KPIs in Community Engagement
With a data-driven approach, Fiene and her team monitor KPIs like engagement, reach, and active player response to measure campaign effectiveness. She uses tools like Power BI to track data, helping her strategize content and engage players more effectively. Her focus is to balance entertaining existing players while reaching out to potential players through innovative, data-backed campaigns. Future Goals and Constant Learning
Fiene talks about her career aspirations, expressing an interest in furthering her skills in social media and marketing. With a passion for learning and self-improvement, she highlights the significance of acquiring diverse skills—like using Premiere Pro and Canva—to stay current in a fast-evolving industry. Her commitment to growth serves as an inspiration for others in community management and social media roles.Episode Summary:
In this episode, Fiene Ziegler provides a comprehensive look at what it means to manage and grow a gaming community. She offers practical insights into blending community engagement with social media strategies, leveraging data for decision-making, and building credibility through in-depth game knowledge. For gaming professionals and community managers alike, her journey and strategies are both inspiring and actionable, showcasing the impact of a well-rounded approach to community engagement. -
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Introduction: In this episode of Player Engage, Greg Posner sits down with Mark Sample, the Studio Creative Director at Sumo Digital, who brings an extensive background in game development, having worked with studios like King, 2K, IOI, Ubisoft, and Sony. Mark shares insights into his journey from pixel art on the Commodore 64 to leading creative direction at Sumo Digital.
The Role of a Studio Creative Director Mark explained his responsibilities, focusing on guiding the creative vision of games, mentoring creative directors, and staying aligned with current industry trends. His role also involves making high-level decisions about game pitches and prototypes. Staying Current with Industry Trends Mark emphasized the importance of staying updated on gaming trends through playing new games, regular team catch-ups, and leveraging insights from Sumo’s parent company, Tencent. The Evolution of Game Design Tools He discussed how tools like Unreal and Unity have revolutionized game development, making it more accessible but also reflecting on the unique challenges and rewards of early game design with limited tools. Balancing Risk and Innovation in Prototyping Prototyping is a critical part of game development, and Mark highlighted the challenges of turning ideas into workable prototypes. He shared the importance of knowing when to pivot or cut ideas that don’t work. The Importance of Listening and Decision-Making Active listening is a crucial leadership skill, according to Mark. Whether dealing with feedback or making decisions about game features, understanding when to listen and when to act is key to success in game development. Transitioning from Hands-On Roles to Leadership Mark talked about the challenges of moving from hands-on game design to strategic leadership. He candidly discussed missing the direct creative work and how he had to adapt to managing people and processes.Summary Mark Sample’s insights provide a fascinating look into the world of game development from a creative leader's perspective. His journey from early game design on basic systems to leading creative teams at Sumo Digital showcases the dynamic nature of the industry. The conversation underscores the importance of continuous learning, passion, and adaptability, and highlights the critical skills needed to thrive in game development. Mark’s emphasis on listening, making tough decisions, and maintaining a balance between creativity and practicality offers valuable lessons for both aspiring and experienced game developers.
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MDEV is a fast-growing gaming conference taking place on November 7-8 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin. Now in its sixth year, MDEV has doubled its audience year after year under the leadership of Ben Kvalo, founder of Midwest Games. Backed by sponsors like Unity, Unreal Engine, and PUBG Studios, MDEV showcases the talent of Midwest studios and is building momentum as a key event for game developers in the region.
Check out our interview with Ben Kvalo to learn more about his vision for MDEV and the Midwest gaming community.
Key Topics Discussed Introduction to Ben Kvalo and His Roles: Learn about Ben’s journey and his significant contributions to the gaming industry in the Midwest. The Growth of MDEV: Discover how MDEV has doubled its attendance every year for the past three years and what makes it a unique and accessible event for game developers and enthusiasts. Midwest Gaming Studios: Ben highlights several prominent studios in the region, including Raven Software, Respawn, PerBlue, and many more, showcasing the rich talent pool and innovative projects coming out of the Midwest. Keynote Speakers at MDEV: Get a sneak peek into the exciting lineup of keynote speakers, including Megan Morgan, Jr. from Santa Monica Studios and Matt Weibel, COO of Second Dinner. Community and Family Values: Explore the strong sense of community and family values that permeate the Midwest gaming industry, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. Future of MDEV: Ben shares his vision for the future of MDEV, including plans for expanding the event and introducing new opportunities for networking and collaboration. -
In this episode, Greg sits down with Ryan Burnett, the Studio Director at Respawn Madison, to talk about his journey in building a new studio from scratch, his leadership philosophy, and the growing game development hub in the Midwest. Ryan shares insights on how Respawn handles LiveOps for Apex Legends, the challenges of recruiting talent, and maintaining a healthy work culture. They also dive into the importance of consistent work in live-service models and the evolving role of player feedback in game development.
Key Timestamps: Building Respawn Madison (01:03 - 03:23)Ryan discusses how he was tasked with building a studio in Madison, explaining the importance of assembling a leadership team and building culture from the ground up. He highlights how there’s no guidebook for building a studio, and much of the journey involves figuring things out as you go. Midwest Game Development Hub (03:23 - 04:47)Ryan touches on how the Midwest, specifically Madison, is becoming a hotbed for game development. He notes that within a 15-mile radius, games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, PUBG, and Apex Legends are being developed—making the Midwest a hidden gem for game development. Preventing Burnout and Managing LiveOps (09:18 - 10:58)Ryan emphasizes that preventing burnout in a LiveOps environment is about more than just managing work hours. It's about effective decision-making, good communication, and maintaining consistent workloads without overwhelming peaks. The importance of predictability in LiveOps is key to maintaining a healthy team. The Role of Player Feedback (16:43 - 18:31) Apex Legends is constantly evolving based on feedback from the player community. Ryan explains how Respawn uses multiple channels—like analytics, social media, and community forums—to gather both quantitative and qualitative feedback, which directly influences their content roadmap. Leadership and Culture in Game Development (32:10 - 35:15)Ryan speaks about his leadership philosophy, focusing on building a team-oriented culture where good ideas can come from anyone. He also shares his journey from being a tech programmer to taking on leadership roles, recognizing that his strength lay in working with people and solving challenges collaboratively.Conclusion:This episode provides a unique look into the journey of building a new game studio and leading in the fast-paced world of LiveOps. Ryan Burnett’s emphasis on leadership, player feedback, and work-life balance offers valuable lessons for industry professionals looking to grow their teams and deliver sustainable results in live-service games.
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Summary: Greg interviews Josh Garity, the founder and CEO of Pyramid Lake Games, to discuss the ins and outs of indie game development. Josh shares insights on their latest project, Varsity High School Football, detailing the challenges of creating a game that represents hundreds of high school football teams across the U.S. He highlights the importance of community feedback and how Pyramid Lake Games stays connected with their players through platforms like Discord and Patreon. Josh also reflects on his partnership with Midwest Games and how shared values helped secure the future of their family-friendly title Floor is What. This episode gives listeners a fascinating look at the indie game development process, the complexities of building realistic games, and the value of community in the industry.
Key Topics:
Introduction to Pyramid Lake Games
Josh Garity shares the journey behind Pyramid Lake Games, based in Madison, Wisconsin. He discusses their growth and upcoming projects, including their new game Varsity High School Football and the evolution from Doug Flutie's Maximum Football. The Genesis of Varsity High School Football
Josh reveals how the idea for Varsity High School Football came from the popularity of high school football culture in the U.S., particularly in states like Texas. His team did in-depth research into high school classifications, divisions, and how to best represent the sport in a video game. Challenges of Game Development
Josh talks about the complexity of managing the data for hundreds of high school teams across 50 states. He touches on balancing realism and gameplay accessibility, ensuring players from different regions feel represented while keeping the game fun and manageable. Community Engagement and Feedback
The importance of community feedback is highlighted as Josh explains Pyramid Lake Games’ approach to interacting with fans through platforms like Discord and Patreon. He discusses the challenge of building a broad community outside of a small core group of followers and the value of direct communication with players. Collaborating with Midwest Games
Josh reflects on his experience partnering with Midwest Games, sharing how their shared values and open communication made it a perfect fit for publishing Floor is What. He emphasizes the importance of having the right partners when working on indie games. Future Plans and the Power of Feedback
Josh outlines his ambitions for Pyramid Lake Games, with a strong focus on continuing to involve the community. He mentions plans for a winter playtest of Floor is What, encouraging players to wishlist the game on Steam and join the development journey.Timestamp Highlights: [00:02:27] – The origin of Varsity High School Football and the inspiration behind focusing on high school sports. [00:06:30] – Josh discusses the research that went into representing hundreds of high school teams across various states. [00:10:39] – Josh shares the critical role of community engagement in indie game development. [00:14:42] – The partnership with Midwest Games and how shared values created a strong publishing relationship. [00:27:35] – Josh talks about the development process behind Floor is What, a family-friendly party game inspired by Mario Party and Fusion Frenzy. -
Introduction: In this episode, Greg Posner welcomes Jennifer Javornik, the Chief Partnerships Officer at Filament Games, to discuss the impact of educational gaming and the thriving Midwest game development community. Jennifer shares insights into how Filament creates games that go beyond entertainment by transforming players and shaping the future of education through immersive, meaningful experiences. This conversation also highlights the Midwest as an emerging hub for game development, and the key role the Wisconsin Games Alliance plays in that growth.
Key Takeaways:
The Mission of Filament Games
Jennifer emphasizes that Filament Games is a mission-driven, for-profit studio that focuses on creating playful experiences that improve people’s lives. Their goal is to make learning fun and engaging, with players emerging from their games transformed in some way—whether it’s learning new concepts, developing confidence, or making behavior changes. Transformative Power of Games
Research backs the effectiveness of well-designed games in education. Games provide an interactive problem space where players can experiment, explore, and gain deeper, longer-lasting understanding compared to traditional learning methods. Jennifer explains how Filament Games integrates this approach into their educational products to encourage players to engage with and retain the material. Impact of COVID on Game Design
The pandemic led to a shift in educational needs, as many students struggled with virtual learning. Jennifer shares how Filament Games adapted by exploring how their games could support students and teachers during this time. The focus has increasingly been on building multiplayer or collaborative experiences to enhance the learning environment. Innovative Platforms for Learning Games
Filament Games develops across a variety of platforms, from standard tools like Unity and Unreal to HTML5 and mobile devices. Jennifer highlights their work on more unconventional platforms, such as Roblox, and even details their creation of a unique game for pediatric MRI machines to help children remain calm during scans. Building the Midwest Game Development Community
Jennifer discusses her work with the Wisconsin Games Alliance and how the Midwest is becoming a hub for game development. She notes the growing number of indie and AAA studios in the region and the importance of initiatives like MDev to unite the game development community and showcase the talent and innovation coming out of the Midwest.Timestamps:
[01:10] – Introduction to Filament Games and its mission-driven approach to game development [03:33] – How games can provide better learning experiences through interactive problem-solving [05:23] – The impact of COVID on education and game design at Filament Games [07:32] – Filament's work on multiple platforms, including Unity, Unreal, Roblox, and even MRI machines [13:18] – Jennifer discusses the growing game development scene in the Midwest and the role of the Wisconsin Games Alliance -
Summary: In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Hogan to explore the growing problem of cheating in online gaming. Andrew shares his journey from brand strategy at Barclays to co-founding Intorqa, a company dedicated to combating cheating through with threat intelligence. We dive into the business of cheating, its impact on game developers, and how Intorqa's SaaS platform helps publishers stay one step ahead of cheaters. This episode is a must-listen for game developers, community managers, and anyone interested in maintaining a fair gaming environment.
Key Topics Covered: Introduction to Andrew Hogan and Intorqa: Andrew’s background in brand strategy and his unexpected path from Barclays to gaming.
How Intorqa started during the early days of COVID-19 and has evolved since then. The Business of Cheating: Cheating has grown into a commercial enterprise with subscription models similar to SaaS.
Cheating is not just about hobbyists anymore; it’s a lucrative business with developers selling cheats to players. Cheating and Its Impact on Gaming Communities: Cheaters drive players away, affect in-game spending, and damage the game’s reputation.
Toxicity linked with cheating often creates a negative loop, pushing more players towards cheats and spreading distrust within communities. The company provides actionable insights to game publishers, helping them stay ahead of cheating trends. The Real Cost of Cheating: Cheating costs developers by driving players away and decreasing in-game purchases.
Andrew discusses the financial impact on developers and how anti-cheat efforts help protect game economies. The Challenges of Implementing Anti-Cheat Measures: Cheaters constantly adapt, making anti-cheat a never-ending game of cat and mouse.
Insights on why developers must prioritize anti-cheat strategies early in game development. Andrew’s Insights on Gaming Security: How Intorqa’s platform helps developers understand and preempt cheating tactics.
Discussion on some of the most sophisticated cheats, including Direct Memory Access (DMA) cheats. Future of Gaming and Anti-Cheat Technology: The importance of staying vigilant as gaming continues to grow.
Intorqa’s vision for a safer and fairer gaming environment.Timestamps: 00:32 - 02:24: Andrew introduces himself and the origins of Intorqa. 04:02 - 05:42: Discussion on how cheating has become a commercial business. 10:25 - 12:47: The impact of cheating on player experience and community toxicity. 13:28 - 15:30: How Intorqa’s SaaS platform gathers intelligence from cheat forums. 32:17 - 34:13: When and how game developers should start thinking about anti-cheat measures. -
Episode Description: In this episode, we dive into the world of game development with Thaddeus Sasser, Game Director of Marvel Rivals at NetEase. Thad shares his journey from working on major franchises like Call of Duty and Battlefield to leading the development of Marvel Rivals. We discuss the challenges of balancing creative vision with stakeholder expectations, bringing iconic Marvel characters to life in a hero shooter, and the final push towards the game’s highly anticipated launch. Whether you’re a game developer, a Marvel fan, or someone interested in the behind-the-scenes of game design, this episode offers invaluable insights.
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
[02:15] Announcing Marvel Rivals at Gamescom Thad talks about the excitement and relief of announcing Marvel Rivals' release date and the addition of Captain America and Winter Soldier. He shares how this announcement has energized the team as they enter the final stages of development. [08:40] What Does a Game Director Do? Thad explains the role of a game director, detailing how it involves holding the creative vision, managing the team, and making crucial decisions that keep the project aligned and moving forward. He emphasizes the importance of leadership and inspiring the team. [15:30] Balancing Marvel’s Vision with Creative Freedom We explore the challenges of working with a huge IP like Marvel. Thad discusses how his team collaborates with Marvel to ensure characters stay true to their origins while still pushing gameplay boundaries to surprise and delight players. [21:50] Designing Characters and Team Synergy in Marvel Rivals Thad dives into the process of designing diverse heroes with unique abilities and how they ensure balanced and engaging gameplay. He shares how characters like Spider-Man are adapted to maintain their iconic traits while offering a fresh gameplay experience. [28:10] Lessons Learned from Past Franchises Reflecting on his work on games like Call of Duty and Battlefield, Thad shares the importance of iteration, feedback, and making tough cuts in the development process. He explains how these experiences have shaped his approach to Marvel Rivals. [35:00] The Next Steps for a Game Director Thad discusses potential career paths for game directors, from moving into studio-level design roles to starting their own studios. He reflects on his passion for staying hands-on with the creative process and being the vision holder for projects.Key Quotes:
“You have to push the boundaries of the franchise to surprise and delight players while staying true to the core IP.” “There’s a moment when you find the fun, and that’s what keeps you hooked.” “I love being the vision holder and part of the creative process.” -
Episode Description:In this episode, we sit down with Yaroslav Rudnitskiy, ASO expert and Head of ASO at AppFollow, to explore the power of App Store Optimization (ASO) and the importance of feedback management in app development. Yaroslav shares strategies for boosting your app’s visibility, engaging with users, and maintaining a positive reputation in the competitive app marketplace. Whether you’re a developer, marketer, or just curious about how apps gain traction, this episode offers valuable insights into the tools and tactics that drive success.
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
[04:00] What is ASO and Why It Matters
Yaroslav breaks down App Store Optimization (ASO), comparing it to SEO for apps. He explains how ASO boosts organic downloads through strategic keyword placement and optimized metadata. [11:45] App Store vs. Google Play: Key Differences
Yaroslav highlights the key differences between the App Store and Google Play algorithms, including how each platform evaluates app visibility and performance. [19:30] The Importance of Regular Metadata Updates
Yaroslav emphasizes the need for frequent updates to your app’s metadata to keep up with changing algorithms and market trends, suggesting updates every 6 weeks. [27:20] Managing Feedback and Reputation with AppFollow
Managing app reviews is crucial for building trust. Yaroslav discusses how AppFollow’s tools help developers manage user feedback, automate responses, and engage more effectively with their community. [35:00] Leveraging Competitor Analysis to Enhance ASO
Yaroslav advises developers to analyze competitors to find opportunities for improvement. By understanding what others are doing well—or poorly—you can refine your own ASO strategy. [42:10] Success Stories: Feedback Automation in Action
Yaroslav shares a success story from Maitona, a game publisher that used AppFollow’s automation tools to manage feedback efficiently, enhancing user satisfaction and retention.Key Quotes:
“ASO is about making your app visible and converting those views into downloads.” “Regular updates to your metadata can significantly impact your app’s search ranking.” “Feedback is gold. Engaging with your users and addressing their concerns builds trust and keeps your app relevant.” -
Episode Summary:
In this episode, we’re joined by James Zinn, Partnership Manager at Shockbyte, to dive deep into the world of server hosting, multiplayer game experiences, and player-owned game servers. James shares his insights on the balance between cost and control in multiplayer game development, and how developers can utilize player-owned servers to foster community, enable user-generated content (UGC), and manage their server hosting costs.We also explore James' journey into gaming, his role at Shockbyte, and how Shockbyte is providing solutions for game developers and players alike. Whether you’re a developer looking for alternatives to AWS or Microsoft Azure, or a gamer curious about how multiplayer servers operate behind the scenes, this episode has something for you.
Timestamps for Key Takeaways:
[03:30] Understanding Different Server Types: P2P vs. Dedicated Servers
James breaks down the different types of multiplayer servers, explaining the pros and cons of P2P (peer-to-peer) and dedicated servers. He also discusses why many game developers choose one over the other, using examples like Battlefield and League of Legends. [17:30] Player-Owned Game Servers: Benefits for Developers and Communities
James highlights the benefits of player-owned game servers (POGS), including how it lowers costs for developers and encourages community engagement. He emphasizes the importance of UGC in building strong gaming ecosystems and how this model allows players to take ownership of their gaming experiences. [24:30] Monetizing Player-Owned Servers
James shares real-world examples of how players can monetize their custom servers by selling in-game items or experiences. We discuss how games like GTA and Minecraft allow server owners to run their own in-game economies and the impact of this on gaming communities. [32:00] Conference Experiences and Networking in the Gaming Industry
James reflects on his experiences at major gaming conferences like Gamescom, GDC, and DICE, offering advice on networking in the gaming industry. He shares personal stories of meeting influential people in the gaming world and the importance of putting yourself out there to build meaningful connections. [36:30] Advice for Aspiring Game Developers
For listeners hoping to break into the gaming industry, James offers practical advice on how to get started. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, whether through volunteering, joining game communities, or creating your own games using platforms like Unity or Unreal Engine. -
In this episode, we are joined by Nigel Franks and Kristie Dale from Snowed In Studios, a distinguished studio within the Keywords family. They dive into the nuances of crafting unforgettable player experiences, discussing the key challenges, cutting-edge technologies, trends, and best practices in the gaming industry.
Nigel Franks, serving as the studio production director at Snowed In Studios, offers his valuable expertise in game development project management. Kristie Dale, on the other hand, as a producer provides insights into the varied job opportunities in the gaming sector, covering roles from artists to customer support to digital media.
Additionally, we explore the impressive talent and brainpower within the Keywords Network. As we collectively work on some of the world's most prominent games, the passion and talent within our network of game creators and entrepreneurs are truly remarkable.
This episode is essential for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the gaming industry, acquiring insights from industry veterans, and discovering the exciting career opportunities available.
Be sure to listen to this episode on our podcast platform or visit our website for more information. And don't forget to subscribe to the Player Engage podcast for future episodes, including an intriguing conversation with Mike Gallagher from Untitled Ad Lab about the marketing dynamics in gaming.
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Episode Description: In this episode, we sit down with Jack Burrows, a talented level designer at NetEase Games, who has worked on some of the most iconic titles in the gaming industry, including Call of Duty and Marvel Rivals. Jack shares his journey from a QA Specialist to a lead level designer, offering insights into the complexities of creating immersive game environments. He also discusses the importance of feedback in the creative process and how he navigates the challenges of designing for a diverse range of characters in Marvel Rivals.
Key Takeaways:
The Journey from QA to Level Designer: Jack discusses his early career challenges and how his determination and passion for game design led him from QA roles to becoming a level designer at Treyarch and eventually at NetEase Games.
Flow and Immersion in Level Design: The importance of creating levels that maintain a seamless flow, keeping players fully immersed in the game. Jack explains the process of planning and playtesting to ensure that each element contributes to the overall gameplay experience.
Designing for Diverse Characters: Jack shares the unique challenges of designing levels for Marvel Rivals, where he must accommodate a wide range of characters with different movement abilities, ensuring that each level offers something engaging for all players.
The Role of Feedback in Game Development: The significance of constructive criticism in the creative process. Jack emphasizes the need for open and honest feedback to foster growth and improvement in game design.
Advice for Aspiring Game Designers: Jack offers practical advice for those looking to break into the gaming industry, highlighting the importance of persistence, networking, and continuously honing one’s craft.
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Greg chats with Tomer Pascal, the co-founder and CEO of Own Play, about their innovative project, CityVerse Tycoon. This episode dives into the integration of Web3 technology in gaming, the challenges of using blockchain and NFTs, and how CityVerse Tycoon offers a seamless gaming experience for both Web3 enthusiasts and casual players alike. Tomer also shares insights into the use of Progressive Web Apps (PWA), real-world assets in gaming, and the importance of community engagement in game development.
Listen Here: Exploring Web3 Gaming with Tomer Pascal
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
03:18.22 - 05:27.34: Simplifying Web3 for Players Tomer discusses how CityVerse Tycoon integrates blockchain and NFTs seamlessly into the gameplay, making it accessible even for players unfamiliar with Web3 technology. 08:34.56 - 10:15.29: The Power of Progressive Web Apps (PWA)A deep dive into why the team chose a PWA over a traditional mobile app, focusing on accessibility and avoiding app store limitations. 12:41.68 - 14:09.52: Real-World Assets in CityVerse Tycoon Tomer explains how players can buy, trade, and improve real-world assets like buildings in Manhattan, adding a financial strategy element to the game. 16:30.44 - 18:07.91: Community Engagement and Feedback Tomer highlights the importance of engaging with the player community through platforms like Discord and the role of player feedback in shaping the game’s development. 21:22.31 - 22:58.44: Balancing Web2 and Web3 Challenges A discussion on the complexities of integrating Web2 and Web3 elements, and the challenges of running two startups simultaneously. -
Greg sits down with Catherine Litvaitis, a seasoned community manager with experience at Mouldbreaker Interactive, Armor Games Studios, and Paradox Interactive. Catherine shares her journey from being a player on Neopets to managing communities for various gaming companies. She delves into the importance of community guidelines, the role of a community manager, and best practices for building and nurturing gaming communities.
Listen Here: Community Management and Guidelines with Catherine Litvaitis
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
01:49.48 - 02:33.94: The Role of a Community Manager Catherine explains the role of a community manager as a liaison between players and developers, emphasizing the importance of translating feedback and fostering player engagement.
04:01.80 - 05:18.35: Neopets Influence Catherine discusses how her experience with Neopets shaped her interest in community management and her understanding of player-driven content and engagement.
11:05.35 - 12:37.01: Building a Community from Scratch Catherine shares strategies for starting a community from scratch, including understanding your audience and creating spaces for creativity and engagement.
24:52.62 - 26:21.20: Tools for Community Management Catherine talks about the tools she uses for community management, including Slack, Discord, ClickUp, and Notion, and how they help streamline communication and task management.Key Concepts:
The Role of a Community Manager: Community managers serve as the bridge between players and developers, translating feedback into actionable insights and ensuring that player voices are heard.
Influence of Early Online Communities: Early experiences on platforms like Neopets and Club Penguin can inspire and shape one's career in community management by highlighting the importance of player-driven content and engagement.
Starting a Community: Understanding your audience, creating spaces for fan art and discussions, and engaging with players are crucial steps in building a successful community from scratch.
Community Guidelines: Customized community guidelines are essential for each game and company, focusing on inclusivity and protection against scams and harmful behavior.
Tools for Effective Management: Utilizing tools like Slack, Discord, ClickUp, and Notion can help community managers streamline their tasks, communicate effectively, and maintain organized documentation.
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Episode Description: In this episode of Player: Engage, Greg chats with Dang-Stefan La Hong from Playa Games and Conor McGinley from Bytro. They dive into the transformation of customer support in the gaming industry, exploring the shift from external to in-app support systems, the integration of community platforms like Discord, and the balance between automation and human interaction. Learn how these leaders are enhancing player experiences and managing the challenges of implementing new technologies.
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
02:46.01 - 03:48.53: Transition to In-App Support Dang and Conor discuss the motivations behind transitioning support systems from external methods like email to integrated in-app solutions, emphasizing the benefits for efficiency and player satisfaction. 07:35.62 - 08:53.39: Player Reactions to New Support Systems Dang shares insights on player reactions to the new support system, noting the mix of appreciation and initial overwhelm with automated responses. 09:52.28 - 10:58.61: Integrating Discord for Community Interaction Conor explains how integrating Discord has helped manage community support by enabling players to interact and assist each other through dedicated channels. 12:22.85 - 13:33.84: Managing Team Expectations and Automation Fears Both guests discuss the importance of managing their teams' concerns about automation and ensuring that human oversight remains a crucial part of customer support.Key Concepts:
Transition to In-App Support: Moving support systems in-app improves consistency, provides better context for issues, and enhances the player experience by allowing them to stay within the game environment. Player Reactions: Players' reactions to new support systems can be mixed. While automation can streamline processes, some players may prefer traditional methods and need time to adjust. Community Interaction: Utilizing platforms like Discord can help manage lower-level support queries through community interaction, allowing support agents to focus on more complex issues. Automation vs. Human Touch: Balancing automation with human oversight is crucial. Automation can handle repetitive tasks, but human agents are necessary for complex and nuanced issues. Managing Change: Implementing new systems requires clear communication and expectation management to address fears and ensure smooth transitions for both teams and players. -
Description: In this exciting episode of the Player: Engage, Greg is joined by Mike O'Connor, CEO of Mr. Kite and the visionary behind Today The Game. Mike shares his insights on integrating AI and Web3 technologies to create an innovative social sandbox game. With a rich background in filmmaking and game development, Mike offers a unique perspective on the future of immersive gaming experiences.
Key Topics Discussed:
Introduction to Mike O'Connor and Mr. Kite (00:00 - 01:14): Greg introduces Mike O'Connor and discusses his background in filmmaking and game development.
Overview of Today The Game and its unique approach to blending AI and Web3 technologies.
Integrating AI for Dynamic NPCs (01:14 - 01:37): Mike explains how AI is used to create dynamic, interactive NPCs that build genuine relationships with players.
The importance of creating immersive and engaging character interactions.
The Power of Storytelling in Gaming (06:46 - 07:34): Discussion on the significance of storytelling in Today The Game.
How Mike’s filmmaking background enhances the game's narrative experience.
Leveraging Web3 for Player Empowerment (21:21 - 22:46): Mike talks about the integration of Web3 technology to provide true ownership of in-game assets.
The benefits of a player-driven economy and fostering a sense of community.
Simplifying Onboarding and Player Experience (34:58 - 36:50): Addressing the challenges of onboarding players in Web3 games.
Today The Game’s approach to making the onboarding process seamless and enjoyable.
Future Innovations and Democratization of Game Development (40:46 - 42:55): How AI and generative technologies are democratizing game development.
Enabling smaller studios to compete with industry giants and innovate creatively.
Mike’s Journey and Career Insights (26:58 - 29:13): Mike shares his journey from a producer at Nintendo and Sega to becoming the CEO of Mr. Kite.
The importance of collaboration and having good processes in place in game development.
Upcoming Play Test and Community Engagement (37:29 - 40:08): Information about the upcoming closed play test for Today The Game.
How to get involved and provide feedback.Call to Action: Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation! Listen to the full episode to learn more about the future of gaming with AI and Web3, and how Today The Game is setting new standards in the industry.
Follow Us:
LinkedIn: Greg Posner Website: Player EngageConnect with Today The Game:
Twitter: @TodayTheGame Website: Today The Game -
Episode Description:
In this episode of Player: Engage, Greg hosts a panel with three distinguished guests from GDC's Community Clubhouse: Mike Pappas, CEO of Modulate; Kieran Donovan, CEO of KID; and Tess Lynch, a privacy and IP attorney at Premac Rogers. They discuss the delicate balance of trust and safety in gaming, addressing technical solutions, legal challenges, and best practices for creating safer gaming environments while respecting player privacy.
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
06:08.65 - 07:50.70: Key Takeaways from Community Clubhouse at GDC: Kieran, Mike, and Tess share their reflections on the event, discussing player happiness, the importance of communication, and the need for more in-depth implementation discussions. 11:40.02 - 14:07.47: Balancing Player Safety and Privacy: Mike uses an analogy to explain the compromise between privacy and safety, stressing the need for clear communication of expectations to players. 20:04.53 - 22:59.70: Technology Solutions for Trust and Safety: Mike explains Modulate's ToxMod and its privacy-preserving approach to voice moderation, emphasizing the importance of proactive moderation. 30:32.37 - 32:28.44: Challenges and Strategies for Indie Developers: Tess advises indie developers to start by understanding their exposure points and implementing appropriate privacy and safety measures based on their game's features and target audience.Key Concepts:
Player Happiness Index: Kieran discusses the concept of a player happiness index, which focuses on understanding where players are happiest and aligning safety and empowerment with player engagement. Communication and Expectations: Mike highlights the importance of platforms clearly communicating their expectations and rules to players to prevent misunderstandings about acceptable behavior. Privacy and Safety Balance: The panelists discuss the need to find a balance between player safety and privacy, using analogies to illustrate how minimal data collection can still ensure a safe environment without being overly intrusive. Proactive Moderation: Mike explains how proactive moderation tools like ToxMod help identify and address harmful behavior in real-time, reducing the burden on players to report issues. Advice for Indie Developers: Tess and Mike emphasize the importance of hiring experts, collaborating with trust and safety professionals, and leveraging existing resources and tools to build a safe and compliant game environment. -
Episode Description: In this episode of Player: Engage, Greg interviews Sharon Fisher, the Head of Trust and Safety at Keywords Studios. Sharon shares her extensive experience in building and managing trust and safety teams, the challenges of moderating online communities, and the role of technology and AI in preventing harmful behavior. The conversation also covers strategies for creating safer gaming environments and the importance of well-being for trust and safety moderators.
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
02:12.22 - 04:11.27: Moderation and PreventionSharon discusses the importance of preventive moderation and the tools needed to support moderators in identifying and addressing real-time threats.
07:02.04 - 09:54.65: Collaboration and Community SafetyEmphasizes the need for developers to collaborate with community teams early in the game development process to anticipate and mitigate potential risks.
Highlights the importance of preventive measures to create a safer gaming environment from the start.
11:33.78 - 14:37.91: AI and Human Interaction in Trust and SafetySharon talks about the integration of AI in trust and safety, stressing the necessity of human oversight to ensure accuracy and context in moderation.
Discusses the challenges of training AI models and the importance of balancing AI and human intervention.
18:37.93 - 20:33.75: Incentivizing Positive EngagementSharon proposes focusing on rewarding positive behaviors in communities rather than just punishing negative actions.
Suggests creating systems that encourage constructive interactions and reduce the appeal of trolling.Key Concepts:
Preventive Moderation:Sharon emphasizes the importance of having preventive measures in place to quickly identify and address harmful behavior in real-time. This involves using advanced tools and technologies to support moderators in their roles.
Collaboration Between Developers and Community Teams:Highlighting the necessity for developers to work closely with community teams from the early stages of game development. This collaboration helps in identifying potential risks and implementing safety features proactively.
Balancing AI and Human Oversight:The integration of AI in trust and safety is crucial, but it must be balanced with human oversight. Sharon discusses the challenges in training AI models and the importance of human moderators to ensure accurate and contextually appropriate decisions.
Incentivizing Positive Behavior:Instead of focusing solely on punitive measures, Sharon advocates for systems that reward positive community engagement. This approach can help in shaping a healthier community culture and reducing the impact of negative behavior.
Moderator Well-being:The well-being of trust and safety moderators is essential. Sharon shares how Keywords Studios has implemented programs to support the mental and emotional health of their moderators, leading to improved retention and overall job satisfaction.
Brand Protection and Community Safety:Sharon discusses how proactive trust and safety measures can protect a brand’s reputation and create a safer environment for all players. She emphasizes that companies should invest in these measures not only for legal and ethical reasons but also for long-term community and business benefits. -
Episode Description: In this episode of Player: Engage, Greg talks with Dan Fox, a seasoned expert in cybersecurity and the leader of the cybersecurity team at ScalePad. Dan shares his career journey, insights into building successful startups, and the importance of staying curious and adaptable in the ever-evolving tech industry. They discuss the role of AI in cybersecurity, the importance of customer experience, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Listen Here: Dan Fox - ScalePad
Timestamps & Key Takeaways:
00:01.25 - 01:25.08: Greg introduces Dan Fox, highlighting his impressive background in cybersecurity and his role in various successful companies, including Smarsh, Securecast, Carbonite, and Webroot.
09:15.91 - 09:45.14: Startup Challenges and Strategies - Dan shares his experiences in startup environments, discussing the importance of wearing multiple hats, staying adaptable, and learning from both successes and failures.
25:26.28 - 25:58.21: Delivering Value to Customers - Emphasizes the importance of listening to customers, solving their problems effectively, and being an advisory partner rather than just a salesperson.
30:48.71 - 31:37.05: Staying Curious and Lifelong Learning - Dan highlights the significance of continuous learning and curiosity, sharing examples of how he expanded his knowledge through formal courses and self-education.
38:02.03 - 39:37.54: Leveraging AI in Cybersecurity - Discusses the integration of AI in cybersecurity for automating tasks, improving threat detection, and enhancing customer support processes.Key Concepts:
Startup Environment: Dan emphasizes adaptability and versatility in startups, highlighting the need to wear multiple hats and learn from both successes and failures.
Customer Experience: Dan underscores the importance of understanding and solving customer problems effectively. He believes in being an advisory partner to build strong, lasting relationships and trust.
Continuous Learning: Staying curious and committed to lifelong learning is crucial. Dan shares his journey of continuous education, using formal courses and online resources to stay ahead in the tech industry.
AI Integration: The integration of AI in cybersecurity is transforming the industry. Dan explains how AI automates tasks, enhances threat detection, and improves customer support processes, leading to greater efficiency and accuracy.
Career Evolution: Dan’s career demonstrates the importance of being open to new opportunities and adapting to different roles. His journey from customer support to founding successful startups and leading cybersecurity teams showcases the diverse paths to success in tech.
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