Episoder
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Nate Kadlac and Aaron Kardell reflect on the past 18 months of building the business and podcast.
They share insights into their journey, including their bootstrapping philosophy, ad partner experiments, and the expansion of their content. The duo discusses their favorite games, the importance of maintaining control by avoiding venture capital, and their continuous efforts to respond to user feedback and improve their games.
They also highlight the diversity of recent podcast guests and invite listeners to suggest future guests and provide reviews to help the podcast grow.
Check out Hey GG's games and links:
https://www.hey.gg/--
(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome(00:56) - Current Games We're Playing(05:11) - Behind the Scenes at Hey Good Game(06:31) - User Feedback and Improvements(10:11) - Growth and Team Dynamics(19:28) - Advertising Strategies and Insights(24:54) - Podcast Journey and Future Plans(27:44) - Conclusion and Call to Action
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Keythe talks about the resurgence of pinball games, his favorite video games over the years, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the industry. The conversation delves into the ethical implications of AI, voice cloning, and the importance of fair compensation for voice actors.
In this episode, you'll learn:
Keythe shares his history with video games, from his early days playing pinball and arcade games like Pac-Man to more recent titles like Tomb Raider and Red Dead Redemption. Keythe shares personal anecdotes and reflections, offering a holistic view of the life of a voice actor. His experiences illustrate the passion and dedication required to succeed in this field.Reflecting on his experiences in motion capture and performance capture, Keythe highlights how these technologies enhance storytelling but also bring additional challenges for actors to accurately convey physical and emotional nuances.Keythe shares insights on:
Voice acting for video games involves understanding and performing for multiple storylines and outcomes simultaneously. Every project can have a different recording schedule.Successful voice acting requires both technical skills (like clear enunciation) and emotional availability, as actors rely solely on their voice to convey the full depth of their character.The industry is constantly evolving, and voice actors need to stay updated with new technologies and methodologies while ensuring fair compensation and ethical considerations.
Check out Keythe's Resources:
https://www.keythefarley.com/
https://x.com/faronear
https://www.facebook.com/keythe
https://www.instagram.com/keythefarley
https://open.spotify.com/show/1tMpjVHdCIiHTfdQkWFeja--
(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast(01:36) - Meet Keythe Farley(02:32) - Keythe's Gaming Journey(06:43) - The Evolution of Voice Acting in Games(11:12) - Challenges of Voice Acting in Video Games(16:17) - Recording Techniques and Actor's Flexibility(23:08) - Multiple Roles and Atmospheric Voices(24:21) - Exploring Diverse Voice Acting Roles(25:38) - The Creative Process in Game Development(27:46) - AI's Impact on the Entertainment Industry(29:16) - Ethical Considerations and AI in Voice Acting(35:33) - The Future of AI in Sports and Entertainment(42:38) - Personal Insights and Tools for Voice Acting(45:22) - Conclusion and Contact Information
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Mangler du episoder?
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Josh Plotner is a renowned musician, producer, and arranger known for his work in films, TV, and video games. Based in New York, Josh has been a freelance musician for over a decade, specializing as a saxophonist and woodwind multi-instrumentalist.
At age three, Josh's journey began with a passion for saxophone, eventually expanding to other woodwind instruments. His versatility led him to Broadway, where he currently subs for The Lion King, playing 13 different flutes. This experience sparked his interest in world flutes, leading to a vast collection of instruments from various cultures.
In this episode, you'll learn:
How Josh transitioned from Broadway to video game musicThe unique challenges and opportunities in video game music compositionJosh's approach to remote recording and building an online presenceThe importance of flexibility and communication when working with clientsHow Josh creates educational content to fill gaps in online resources for niche instrumentsJosh shares insights on:
The similarities between flutes from different culturesThe impact of 3D printing on instrument manufacturingStrategies for succeeding in the music industry, including networking and specializationCheck out Josh's Resources:
https://www.joshplotnermusic.com/--
(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast(01:19) - Meet Josh Plotner: Multi-Instrumentalist Extraordinaire(02:00) - Josh's Favorite Games and Musical Inspirations(03:17) - The Magic of Woodwind Instruments in Gaming(06:20) - Challenges and Joys of Playing the Shakuhachi(09:48) - Josh's Musical Journey: From Saxophone to Broadway(18:16) - Breaking into Video Game Music(23:30) - Navigating Client Communication Challenges(24:12) - The E-commerce Approach to Music Services(24:47) - Adapting to Remote Work During the Pandemic(25:31) - Building an Informative and Engaging Website(27:44) - Educating Clients Without Talking Down(28:46) - The Intersection of Social Media and Client Generation(29:17) - Filling Gaps in Online Music Education(31:49) - The Power of Deadlines for Creativity(32:55) - Passion-Driven Content Creation(40:58) - The Challenges of Being a Generalist Musician(42:06) - Embracing Negative Feedback as a Sign of Success(43:46) - How to Connect with Josh Plotner
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Daniel Tait is a prolific indie game developer who has created several popular puzzle games, including Mathler, CrossWordle, and Somplete. Despite not considering himself a professional programmer, Daniel has a knack for quickly building and launching games that capture players' attention.
In this episode, we explore Daniel's journey from tinkering with games as a kid to becoming a successful indie developer.
He shares insights on:
How he created Mathler, his breakout hit inspired by Wordle, using an open-source clone and basic math equationsHis approach to rapidly prototyping and launching games, often spending just a weekend to get an MVP outLeveraging AI tools like ChatGPT to overcome technical challenges and generate unique puzzlesThe pros and cons of selling some of his most popular gamesHis latest project, WordNerd.co, which aims to be a hub for word game enthusiastsYou'll learn:
Why Daniel prefers to launch games quickly and imperfectly rather than polishing them extensivelyHow he uses domain name availability to influence game ideas (23 Words came from 23words.com being available!)His simple but effective launch strategy using Hacker News and RedditThe importance of building games you enjoy playing yourselfCheck out Daniel's Resources:
https://wordnerd.co/
23words.com
https://killercrossword.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-tait/Contact:
[email protected]--
(00:00) - Introduction to Game Development(00:41) - Welcome to the Hey Good Game Podcast(02:21) - Interview with Daniel Tait(03:24) - Daniel's Gaming Background(06:57) - The Creation of Mathler(08:52) - Launching and Promoting Mathler(10:16) - Daniel's Game Development Philosophy(19:46) - Monetization Strategies(21:48) - Acquisition by Hey Good Game(23:15) - Exploring AI-Assisted Game Development(23:25) - Creating a Puzzle Game with ChatGPT(24:07) - Developing and Testing the Game(25:44) - Using AI for Game Development(26:35) - The Joy of Building Games(30:57) - Balancing Game Development and Personal Life(37:19) - Launching and Promoting New Games(41:00) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Developers
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Gabe Cornish is a game creator with over 40 published games on itch.io and a decade of experience in the game industry. He's worked on hit mobile titles like Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery at Jam City and more recently at Paradox Interactive. Gabe is passionate about making game development more accessible and sustainable for creators.
In this episode, we explore Gabe's journey in game development and his unique perspective on creating games for fun rather than profit. He shares insights on:
• Make games regularly, even if they're small and imperfect, to maintain enthusiasm and improve skills
• Don't judge your creations too harshly - you never know what will resonate with players
• Consider freeware development as a sustainable way to weather industry uncertainty
• Look for alternative monetization methods like Patreon to support ongoing creative workCheck out Gabe's Resources:
https://gabrielcornish.com/
https://gabrielcornish.itch.io/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielcornish--
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Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Eric Albaest, co-founder and CEO of Chess.com, joins the podcast to discuss how he's revolutionized the world of online chess. With 5-10 million daily players and nearly $100 million in annual revenue, Chess.com has become the go-to platform for chess enthusiasts worldwide.
Eric shares his journey from e-commerce to building a chess empire, starting with Schoolhouse Chess and Wholesale Chess before launching Chess.com. He reveals how the company has weathered surges and plateaus in popularity, including the massive boost from Netflix's "The Queen's Gambit."
In this episode, you'll learn:
• How Chess.com changed the definition of who can be a chess player, vastly expanding the market
• The importance of balancing community, content, and product in building a successful gaming platform
• Why streaming and content creation have been crucial to Chess.com's growth strategy
• How the company navigates the challenges of running a complex gaming ecosystemCheck out Erik's Resources:
https://www.chess.com/
https://x.com/chesscom
https://www.tiktok.com/@chess
https://www.chesscomshop.com/
https://www.instagram.com/wwwchesscom/
https://www.youtube.com/user/wwwChesscom--
(00:00) - The Transferability of Chess.com to Other Games(00:29) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest(02:12) - Eric Allebest's Journey with Chess.com(03:28) - The Popularity and Growth of Chess.com(04:20) - Eric's Favorite Games and Gaming Preferences(07:05) - The Psychology of Chess and Player Behavior(09:16) - Eric's Early Life and Introduction to Games(10:31) - The Birth of Chess.com and E-commerce Challenges(13:24) - The Evolution of Gaming and Content Integration(16:33) - The Role of Design and Branding in Chess.com(22:57) - The Impact of Streaming on Chess Popularity(25:17) - Engaging with Non-Top Players(26:05) - Streamers and the Element of Competition(27:36) - Celebrity Collaborations and Vulnerability(30:14) - The Changing Media Landscape(31:20) - Chess and Other Traditional Games(34:11) - Impact of The Queen's Gambit(37:06) - Media and Entertainment in Chess(47:17) - Onboarding New Users to Chess.com(49:42) - Reflections on Chess and Life(51:19) - Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Cassidy Williams is a prolific content creator, developer advocate, and builder. Aaron Kardell and Joseph Rueter discuss Jumblie—a word game inspired by a coding challenge—and Cassidy's previous games.
Cassidy shares her journey, the influence of her time in Spain, SEO, her love for board games like Agricola and Civ 6, and her stint as a mascot at Iowa State University.
Check out Cassidy's Resources:
(00:00) - Introduction and SEO Nerd Talk(00:29) - Interview with Cassidy Williams(00:51) - Cassidy's Journey with Jumblie(03:17) - Cassidy's Favorite Games(04:41) - General Mills Internship Experience(06:07) - College Mascot Adventures(09:33) - Living in Spain(13:47) - SEO and Scooby Doo(15:46) - Founding Cosigned(21:23) - The Birth of Contenda(21:57) - AI Tools Before the Hype(22:34) - Challenges and Pivots(23:11) - The Brain Story Tool(24:06) - The End of Contenda(24:57) - Switching to Gaming(25:21) - Creating 13 Potions(29:40) - The Jumblie Journey(40:45) - Challenges of Puzzle Editing(43:35) - Future of Jumblie and Final Thoughts
https://jumblie.com
https://cassidoo.co
https://x.com/cassidoo
https://github.com/cassidoo
https://www.patreon.com/cassidoo
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassidoo/
--
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Peter Mohrbacher, creator of Angelarium, emphasizes the importance of creating art for yourself rather than trying to please others or meet market expectations. He argues that the best art comes from a place of "creative selfishness" - following your own obsessions and interests without worrying about external validation. This approach has allowed him to maintain a unique artistic voice while building a successful business around his personal project. However, he acknowledges that this path isn't for everyone, as many artists struggle with the business side of self-publishing and marketing their work.
Check out Peter's Resources:
https://www.angelarium.net
https://angelarium.shop
https://www.patreon.com/angelarium
https://x.com/bugmeyer
https://bugmeyer.tumblr.com/
https://www.facebook.com/angelarium
https://www.pinterest.com/petemohrbacher/--
(00:00) - Introduction to AI Prompting(00:26) - Welcome to Hey Good Game Podcast(00:42) - Interview with Peter Mohrbacher(02:08) - Peter's Favorite Game: Elden Ring(05:54) - The Art of Angelarium(19:15) - Challenges of Sharing Art Online(27:04) - Embracing Creative Obsessions(28:10) - Balancing Art and Business(29:00) - Challenges in the Art Business(32:38) - Gamifying Social Media and Marketing(35:00) - Corporate Exploitation in the Art World(37:33) - Venturing into Tabletop RPGs(41:39) - Navigating Patreon and Crowdfunding(48:58) - Scams and Online Security(54:42) - Conclusion and Future Projects
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Greg Karber is the creator of the hit murder mystery puzzle game Murdle. Greg shares the fascinating journey of Murdle's creation, from a simple puzzle made for a friend to a bestselling book series and popular daily online game.
We dive into Greg's influences, how he monetizes Murdle, and the balance between game mechanics and storytelling.
Check out Greg's Resources:
https://murdle.com/
https://murdle.com/book/
https://x.com/gregkarber
https://discord.gg/kmyFvXJ44s
https://www.reddit.com/r/murdle/
https://www.tiktok.com/@gtkarber
https://www.instagram.com/gregkarber/
https://bsky.app/profile/gtkarber.bsky.social
http://killerpartymusical.com/--
--
Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/ -
Cole Medeiros' career in game design is driven by passion and authenticity. He started creating games as a child (GUBS in fourth grade) and has successfully transitioned this early interest into a professional career.
His approach emphasizes the importance of genuine enthusiasm for the project, close collaboration with partners (as seen in his work with ConcernedApe), and the ability to balance the creative and business aspects of game development.
Cole's journey showcases how personal passion can lead to successful game creation, from indie board games to working on major titles like Stardew Valley.
Check out Cole's Resources:
https://www.stardewvalley.net/
https://colemedeiros.com/
https://x.com/TheGubsGuy
https://gamemaker.io/en
https://www.tabletopsimulator.com/Contact
[email protected]--
(00:00) - Introduction and Career Reflection(00:13) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast(01:00) - Meet Cole Medeiros: Game Designer Extraordinaire(01:42) - Discussing Favorite Games and Board Game Design(04:21) - Designing Games for Different Audiences(07:23) - Choosing and Developing Game Ideas(11:30) - User Testing and Publishing Experiences(13:57) - The Journey of GUBS and Web of Spies(22:31) - Collaborating on Stardew Valley: The Board Game(27:32) - Insights on Game Design and Personal Motivation(37:09) - Current Projects and Future Plans(39:23) - Conclusion and Contact Information
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Zach Gage might be one of the most innovative game designers you've never heard of.
He's the creator of Good Sudoku, Really Bad Chess, and 30+ other games that reimagine classic puzzles for the digital age.
Now he's taking on the New York Times with Puzzmo.com
We spent an hour exploring his creative process and the future of puzzle games.
Check out Zach's Resources:
http://www.stfj.net
https://www.puzzmo.com
https://www.playgoodsudoku.com/
http://www.reallybadchess.com/--
(00:00) - The First Game Creations(00:48) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast(00:59) - Insights from Zach Gage's Interview(02:26) - Introducing Zach Gage(04:18) - Zach's Gaming Preferences and Bag Obsession(10:25) - Zach's Artistic Family Background(12:16) - Early Exhibits and Creative Opportunities(15:40) - Designing Good Sudoku(23:50) - Creating Really Bad Chess(26:22) - Struggling with Chess: A New Perspective(27:54) - The Game Design Process(29:06) - Challenges in Game Tutorialization(30:38) - Innovative Game Examples(34:00) - Building Puzmo: From Concept to Reality(46:56) - The Role of Community and Distribution(50:19) - Balancing Business and Creativity(53:53) - Connecting with the Audience
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 29: Jim Horne is the creator of Microsoft FreeCell and xwordinfo.com. Jim shares his journey from early programming to joining Microsoft in 1988, where he secretly added FreeCell to Windows.
His passion for crosswords led to writing for the New York Times and developing xwordinfo.com. Jim discusses his time at Microsoft, including sharing an office wall with Steve Ballmer, and the serendipitous nature of his career. He touches on the "unsolvable" FreeCell game and his recent collaboration on "I'm Squeezy." Throughout, Jim highlights the intersection of music and programming, offering insights into early computing, casual games, and the crossword community, demonstrating how pursuing interests can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Check out Jim's resources:
https://www.xwordinfo.com
https://freecell.org/
Wordplay
https://imsqueezy.com--
(00:00) - Jim Horne and His Musical Background(01:44) - Jim Horne's Journey to Microsoft and FreeCell(03:35) - The Creation and Popularity of FreeCell(05:11) - Jim's Musical Adventures and Microsoft Theater(06:41) - Jim's Early Love for Games and Programming(10:30) - The FreeCell Phenomenon and Shareware Success(19:22) - Blogging and Crossword Puzzles with The New York Times(22:29) - Creating XWord Info and the Crossword Community(28:44) - The Legacy of FreeCell and New Ventures(34:02) - Advice for Aspiring Game Creators
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 28: Tracy Fullerton is a pioneering game designer, educator, and USC Games Program Director emeritus. The conversation covers Tracy's extensive career in game design, her creation of the game 'Walden,' and her unique approach to blending philosophy with gameplay.
Tracy opens up about the decade-long development of 'Walden,' the challenges and joys of translating Thoreau's philosophies into an immersive experience, and her experiences mentoring the next generation of game designers.
We talk about why you shouldn't say "No," the intricacies of player emotional experience goals, and the importance of being a passionate and generous designer.
Check out Tracy's Resources:
https://www.waldengame.com/
https://www.gameinnovationlab.com/
https://www.thenightjourney.com/
https://www.tracyfullerton.com/
https://gameinnovationlab.itch.io/walden
https://www.gamedesignworkshop.com--
(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast(01:27) - Meet Tracy Fullerton(04:01) - Tracy's Early Gaming Experiences(07:58) - The Birth of Spiderdance(12:44) - Creating Walden, a Game(20:01) - Challenges and Persistence(24:44) - Pricing Strategy and Educational Impact(29:15) - Launching on Multiple Platforms(29:28) - Impact of COVID on Game Launches(30:09) - International Reach and Localization Challenges(31:47) - Player Feedback and Diverse Audience(32:22) - Teaching First-Person Game Mechanics(36:28) - The Night Journey Collaboration(43:01) - Mentoring and Teaching Game Design(48:37) - Balancing Passion Projects and Career(52:48) - Game Design Workshop 20th Anniversary(57:35) - Conclusion and Contact Information
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 27: Blake Harris is the acclaimed author of "Console Wars" and "The History of the Future." Blake shares his journey from a struggling screenwriter to a successful author, diving into the intense rivalry between Sega and Nintendo that defined a generation of gaming.
He reveals insights into the internal conflicts at Sega that contributed to their downfall and discusses the revolutionary impact of Oculus and virtual reality on the tech landscape.
Blake also offers a sneak peek into his upcoming book about comedy legend Larry David, creator of "Seinfeld" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm," complete with humorous anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. From the challenges of getting in touch with industry giants like Seth Rogen to the joys and struggles of writing about beloved cultural icons, this episode is packed with compelling stories and valuable lessons on persistence, research, and the art of storytelling.
Check out Blake's Resources:
https://twitter.com/blakejharrisNYC
https://www.amazon.com/Console-Wars-Nintendo-Defined-Generation/
https://www.amazon.com/History-Future-Facebook-Revolution-Virtual/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/author-blake-j-harris-and-the-history-of-the-future/
Console Wars Documentary--
(00:00) - Connecting with Seth Rogen: A Game-Changing Experience(00:33) - Interview with Blake Harris: Insights and Takeaways(01:38) - Blake Harris's Journey: From Console Wars to New Projects(04:22) - The Fascinating World of Sega and Nintendo(07:34) - From Video Games to Authorship: Blake's Path(20:35) - Challenges and Triumphs in Writing Console Wars(29:34) - The Impact of Sega's Internal Conflicts(33:21) - The Oculus Story: A Mind-Blowing Experience(34:49) - Challenges in VR: Monetization and Market Penetration(35:58) - The Evolution of VR Hardware(36:59) - The Search for VR's Killer App(40:22) - The Social and Practical Applications of VR(50:31) - The Impact of Politics on Oculus(54:15) - Larry David: From Seinfeld to Curb Your Enthusiasm(55:24) - The Joy of Writing About Larry David(57:59) - Conclusion and Future Projects
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 26: Jeff Petriello, a game producer at the New York Times and a game design educator at NYU Game Center, shares his unique journey from producing movies to producing games played by millions of people.
Go behind the scenes at the New York Times, learn what it's like to shepherd hits like Wordle, and create games from scratch like Strands.
Working closely with the New Games Squad and the Gameplay Squad, Jeff shares what inspires him, his teaching experiences, and the significant role of games in building social connections.
This episode is filled with valuable insights for aspiring game designers and enthusiasts alike.
Check out Jeff's Social and Resources:
https://www.thebeff.com/
https://www.thepastatarot.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpetriello/
https://gamecenter.nyu.edu/faculty/jeff-petriello/
https://thebeff.itch.io/self-portrait
https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords--
(00:00) - Introduction to the Hey, Good Game Podcast(01:39) - Jeff Petriello's Journey to Game Production(02:43) - Jeff's Current Gaming Favorites and Insights(05:44) - The Personal Impact of Games on Jeff's Life(10:44) - Transitioning from Philosophy to Game Design(24:33) - The Evolution of Teaching Game Design(30:32) - Jeff's Path to the New York Times(35:35) - The Evolution of NYT Games: From Crosswords to Wordle(35:56) - Joining the NYT Games Team and Developing New Hits(36:36) - The Creative Process Behind NYT's Newest Game, Strands(39:04) - The Art of Puzzle Creation: A Blend of Technology and Creativity(40:19) - The Impact of Games on NYT's Subscription Model(46:43) - Exploring the Buy vs. Build Strategy in Game Development(56:53) - The Personal Journey: Career Advice and Side Hustles(01:01:47) - A Tarot Reading to Close: Insights and Reflections
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Right before the New York Times announced they acquired Wordle in the low-mid seven figures, Aaron attempted to buy Wordle, and wordle.com. Listen to Aaron's story on why he started building games, and how that led to his attempt to purchase the popular daily word game that took the world by storm.
How close did he get? Listen and find out!
--
(00:00) - Introduction to the Hey, Good Game Podcast(01:17) - The Unstoppable Rise of Wordle(02:12) - Aaron's Journey into Game Development(06:38) - The Evolution of Online Game Monetization(13:24) - The Attempt to Acquire Wordle(29:14) - Reflections and the Future of Daily Brainy Games
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 24: In this episode, explores the journey of Mark and Jeff Rogers, creators of Canuckle and Canoku games, inspired by Wordle. It delves into their background, game development process, hiatus, renewal with added features, community engagement strategies, collaborations with other game creators and notable organizations, partnerships for sponsorships and merchandise, future plans, and potential partnerships with entities like the New York Times' Wordle. The discussion also includes their use of AI, philanthropic endeavors, and lessons learned in promoting their games.
Check out Mark and Jeff Rogers' Games and Resources:
Canuckle: www.canucklegame.ca
Canoku: www.canoku.ca
X/Twitter: x.com/canucklegame
FB: www.facebook.com/CanuckleGame
IG: www.instagram.com/canucklegame
Merch: merch.canucklegame.caCollaborations:
Waffle: waffle.canucklegame.ca
Squaredle: squaredle.canucklegame.ca
Nerdle: nerdle.canucklegame.ca
(00:00) - The Genesis of Canuckle: A Wordle-Inspired Creation(00:38) - Welcome to Hey, Good Game Podcast(00:53) - Insights from Canuckle's Creators: Collaboration and Breaks(02:05) - Introducing Canuckle and Kanoku: Canadian-Themed Daily Games(02:42) - The Creators' Gaming Backgrounds and Inspirations(03:47) - The Competitive Spirit Behind Canuckle's Creation(07:13) - From Concept to Launch: The Journey of Canuckle(08:12) - Challenges and Triumphs in Developing Canuckle(13:38) - Fostering Community and Engagement Through Canuckle(15:26) - The Evolution of Canuckle: From Launch to Revamp(20:52) - Exploring Merchandise and Monetization Strategies(23:05) - Future Plans and Monetization Insights(24:28) - Exploring the CIRA Partnership and Monthly Puzzles(26:27) - Creative Sponsorship and Game Design Insights(27:08) - Expanding the Game Portfolio with Canadian Themes(30:22) - Leveraging Partnerships for Cross-Promotion and Growth(38:36) - Innovative Use of AI and Exploring New Technologies(41:16) - The Decision Against Mobile Apps and Embracing Web Accessibility(43:11) - Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement(46:58) - Giving Back Through Canuckle and Future Plans
Reach out:
[email protected]
--
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 23: In this episode, we dive deep into the creative process behind the game WordPeaks with its creator, Devin Spikowski. Discover the inspirations, design decisions, and the unique journey from concept to a game enjoyed by thousands.
Check out Devin's Games and Resources:
https://vegeta897.github.io/word-peaks/
https://twitter.com/vegeta897
https://github.com/vegeta897
https://cohost.org/vegeta897
https://vegeta897.carrd.co/
https://mastodon.gamedev.place/@vegeta897
(00:00) - Kicking Off with Devin of WordPeaks(00:12) - Introducing the Hey, Good Game Podcast(00:22) - Diving Into WordPeaks: A Unique Word Game(01:33) - Exploring the Artistic Side of Game Development(02:10) - A Deep Dive with Devin Spikowski: The Creator's Journey(02:54) - The Creative Process Behind WordPeaks(03:18) - Gaming Influences and the Path to Game Development(13:26) - The Evolution of WordPeaks: From Concept to Game Enhancements(21:45) - Leveraging Feedback and Building a Community(25:01) - The Challenges and Rewards of Game Development(33:09) - Exploring New Projects and Future Plans(35:12) - Monetization Strategies and Keeping the Game Accessible(37:36) - Wrapping Up: Where to Find Devin and WordPeaks
--
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 22: This conversation features a deep and insightful discussion with Frank Lantz, the director of the New York University Game Center and an award-winning game designer. Throughout the interview, Lantz explores the intricate relationship between games, culture, and education, highlighting how games can serve as a potent medium for both artistic expression and intellectual challenge.
Check out Frank's Games and Resources:
“The Beauty of Games” - A book by Frank Lantz
Universal Paperclips - A game by Frank Lantz
https://twitter.com/flantz
https://www.franklantz.net/
https://www.franklantz.net/work
https://www.linkedin.com/in/franklantz/Resources Mentioned:
Balatro - Mentioned as a current favorite game of Frank Lantz.
Portal - Highlighted as possibly the funniest and one of the greatest games, with contributions from Eric Wolpaw.
Disco Elysium - Cited as an example of excellent narrative in games.
Kentucky Route Zero - Mentioned for its narrative focus.
The Stanley Parable and The Beginner's Guide
GeoGuessr
(00:00) - Exploring Comedy's Influence in Game Design(00:31) - Welcome to Hey, Good Game Podcast(00:54) - Post-Interview Reflections and Takeaways(02:09) - Deep Dive with Frank Lantz: A Gaming Luminary(03:36) - The Art and Challenge of Comedy in Games(05:14) - Navigating the Addictive Nature of Games(07:40) - Universal Paperclips: Designing for Disengagement(26:18) - The Role of Narrative and Writing in Games(31:12) - Games as Social and Cultural Artifacts(33:53) - Exploring the Social Impact of Gaming(34:21) - The Art of Taste and Social Connections in Cooking vs. Gaming(34:39) - The Evolution of Gaming Communities and Cultural Shifts(36:06) - The Founding and Philosophy of the NYU Game Center(37:53) - Teaching Game Design as a Creative Discipline(39:16) - Games as Cultural Forms and Their Deep Connection to Computer Science(39:49) - The Intricacies of Game Design and Its Historical Significance(40:51) - Finding Joy and Social Exchange in Sports and Games(42:30) - Bridging Generational Gaps in Gaming Understanding(46:47) - The Fascination with Watching Games and eSports(51:41) - The Intellectual Depth of Bridge and Its Cultural Phenomenon(57:42) - Envisioning the Future of Games and Their Role in Society(01:05:28) - The Journey of Games Towards a Richer Cultural Spectrum(01:06:01) - Closing Thoughts and Where to Find More
--
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com -
Episode 21: David Turner created Semantle.com, a unique word-guessing game focusing on semantic relationships. Turner shares insights on his journey from ideation to acquisition, his creative process, and upcoming projects like a graphical adventure game. We also chat about game design challenges, user testing, creativity in game development, and effective marketing strategies.
Check out David's games and links:
(00:00) - Kicking Off with a Creative Idea(00:16) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast(01:33) - Deep Dive with David Turner: The Mind Behind Semantle(02:15) - Exploring David's Favorite Games and Creative Hobbies(04:38) - The Genesis of Semantle: From Concept to Viral Sensation(05:36) - David's Unique Game Design Process and Programming Journey(18:13) - Navigating the Complexities of Game Difficulty and Player Engagement(21:12) - Exploring Game Design and Puzzle Complexity(21:52) - The Art of Puzzle Testing and Design Insights(24:28) - Challenges and Strategies in Game Difficulty(28:38) - Monetization and the Decision to Sell a Game(31:21) - Creative Process and Future Projects(33:08) - Advice for Aspiring Game Developers(39:46) - Launching New Games and Marketing Strategies(43:07) - Reflections and Future Plans
https://semantle.com/
https://twitter.com/SemantleGame
https://games.novalis.org/
https://middlesgame.com/
[email protected]
--
--Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com - Se mer
