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IndieGameBusiness®

IndieGameBusiness®

By Jay Powell

Candid conversations with veterans of all aspects of the business side of games. We firmly believe that great games from all developers need the support they deserve to succeed. This podcast exists to provide that support.

IndieGameBusiness® is produced by The Powell Group, a video game consulting firm specializing in business development, marketing, and licensing. Our CEO has been in the industry for 20 years and closed countless publishing and licensing deals. The Powell Group monitors over 3,500 game developers and 750+ publishers.
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From Tabletop To Desktop w/ Tom Young of Nomad Games

IndieGameBusiness®Nov 21, 2020

00:00
01:07:44
Starting and Running an Indie Game Studio

Starting and Running an Indie Game Studio

Today, we're excited to have Stuart De Ville, Founder and CEO of Game Dev London, Founder and Director of Fribbly games, freelance Game Asset Artist, and Indie Games Consultant, here to share invaluable insights on "Starting and Running an Indie Game Studio."


During our discussion, Stuart will draw from his extensive experience in the industry to provide actionable advice on starting and running a successful game studio. He'll share personal anecdotes, including lessons learned from his first studio's failure and the subsequent journey of starting again.




We'll explore topics such as the importance of networking, finding the right project, and mastering the art of pitching and public speaking. Stuart will offer practical strategies for aspiring developers to navigate the challenges of studio management and increase their chances of long-term success.


Stay connected with Stuart De Ville on Twitter and LinkedIn:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/StuartDeVille

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartdeville/


Join us as we dive into the intricacies of indie game studio management and uncover the keys to building a thriving and resilient game development business.


#IndieGameStudio #GameDevLondon #FribblyGames #IndieGameBusiness #GameDevelopment #StuartDeVille #Networking #StudioManagement #PitchingSkills

Mar 15, 202401:02:27
Publishers Vs. Investors For Indie Game Developers

Publishers Vs. Investors For Indie Game Developers

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're honored to have Eliana Oikawa, CEO at WINGS & COO at Game Habitat, here to discuss the crucial topic of "Publishers Vs. Investors For Indie Game Developers."


During our conversation, Eliana will shed light on the important work of WINGS and their ongoing Women's Day Sale on Steam. We'll explore what sets WINGS apart from traditional publishers and investors, as well as the application process and criteria for aspiring developers.


Eliana will delve into the financial climate of investments, highlighting the challenges faced by diverse teams in the current landscape. We'll discuss strategies for overcoming these challenges and fostering greater inclusivity in indie game development.


Stay connected with Eliana Oikawa and WINGS on social media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wingsfundme

LinkedIn (Eliana Oikawa): www.linkedin.com/in/elianaoikawa

LinkedIn (WINGS): https://www.linkedin.com/company/wings-interactive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wingsfundme


Join us as we explore the intersection of women and indie game development, and discover how initiatives like WINGS are making a difference in the industry.


#WomenInGaming #IndieGameDevelopment #WINGSInteractive #GameHabitat #IndieGameBusiness #DiverseTeams #FinancialInvestments #ElianaOikawa

Mar 08, 202401:08:35
Unlocking Wishlists Through Influencers and Advertising

Unlocking Wishlists Through Influencers and Advertising

This is a must-attend event for video game developers and marketers looking to leverage the power of influencers and advertising for their game's on Steam.


#IndieGameBusiness #SteamWishlists #GamingInfluencers

Mar 08, 202401:00:39
Unlocking Indie Magic: Mocap on a Budget

Unlocking Indie Magic: Mocap on a Budget

Discover the secrets of indie game mocap success on a budget! Join us as we delve into the world of motion capture from a performer's perspective. Learn practical tips, tricks, and budget-friendly techniques to bring your characters to life without breaking the bank. Whether you're a developer or an actor, this session will empower you to leverage mocap for indie game success.


#IndieGameBusiness #Mocap #GameMocap#IndieGameMocap

Mar 07, 202456:56
Unlocked Earned Coverage - How to sell your game with limited funds

Unlocked Earned Coverage - How to sell your game with limited funds

It's difficult to make a great game, but selling it is a completely different beast - especially with a low budget. In this session I'll go over the do's and don'ts of launching a title. Many people think that you need an unlimited budget to be successful, but even with limited funds you can set up a successful games marketing campaign.


#IndieGameBusiness #GameMarketing #SellYourGame #GameDev #IndieGameDev

Mar 06, 202458:55
Tax Topics for Game Developers

Tax Topics for Game Developers

This session will serve as a primer on US tax issues for game developers who freelance or own their own business. It will cover a range of topics, from Employee vs. Independent Contractor status, to choice of business entity, to valuable tax deductions and credits that may be available to business owners.


This session will introduce concepts related to sales tax on digital goods and services and discuss the benefits of the R&D tax credit. The session is recommended for freelances and business owners operating in the US, who want to become active and empowered in managing their tax matters.


#Taxes #IndieGameBusiness #GamingTaxes #GameStudioTaxes #TaxAdvice

Mar 05, 202458:06
Pitch Deck Reviews with Firestoke Games - Zombie Rollerz

Pitch Deck Reviews with Firestoke Games - Zombie Rollerz

Find out what publishers are looking for in a pitch deck. During this session, Omar and Jay review the pitch deck for the game Zombie Rollerz.


#pitchdeckreview #IndieGameBusiness #GamePitchDecks

Mar 04, 202445:14
Pitch Deck Reviews with Firestoke Games - Magical Harvest

Pitch Deck Reviews with Firestoke Games - Magical Harvest

Find out what publishers are looking for in a pitch deck. During this session, Omar and Jay review the pitch deck for the game Magical Harvest.


#pitchdeckreview #IndieGameBusiness #GamePitchDecks

Mar 03, 202401:06:24
Pitch Deck 101 for Indies

Pitch Deck 101 for Indies

This talk will explore how to create a pitch deck for approaching a publisher. It will cover reasons to approach a publisher, what's in it for the publisher, and the parts of the pitch deck. It will conclude with some resources and methods that will be helpful to indie devs who want to pitch their game.

#IndieGameBusiness #PitchDecks #GameDeveloperPitchDecks

Mar 02, 202401:00:17
Current Market Challenges for Indie Game Companies

Current Market Challenges for Indie Game Companies

Welcome to another episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're honored to have Lisette Titre Montgomery, CEO of Cornerstone Studios, here to shed light on "Current Market Challenges for Indie Game Companies."

Throughout our discussion, Lisette will delve into the pressing issues facing indie game companies in the current market landscape. We'll explore topics such as funding challenges, emerging market trends, and the future direction of the gaming industry.

Lisette will share insights into Cornerstone Studios' mission, goals, and strategies for navigating market challenges while maintaining a focus on innovation and creativity. We'll also discuss the importance of intellectual property (IP) management and its role in the success of indie game companies.

Stay connected with Lisette Titre Montgomery on Twitter and LinkedIn:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/zette16

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisettetitre


Join us as we uncover the complexities of the indie game market and explore strategies for overcoming challenges in today's dynamic gaming landscape.


#IndieGameCompanies #MarketChallenges #CornerstoneStudios #FutureOfGaming #IndieGameBusiness #FundingChallenges #IPManagement #LisetteTitreMontgomery #IndieGameBusiness

Mar 01, 202401:01:35
Minimal Viable Process - how to find flow in your ways of working

Minimal Viable Process - how to find flow in your ways of working

In this session you will learn about some core tools and practices that will help you find your own tailored Minimum Viable Process for your team or studio. You will hear some case studies to learn from others’ successes and failure and you will leave the session with a few ideas to implement directly with your team.


#IndieGameBusiness #GameDev #GameStudio

Mar 01, 202401:01:56
Marketing Masterclass: Practical tips for indie games on a budget

Marketing Masterclass: Practical tips for indie games on a budget

Join Tammy for an exclusive Marketing Masterclass tailored to indie game developers with limited budgets and small teams. Discover the most effective and practical tips, from guerrilla tactics to must-have social media strategies, to maximize your game's visibility without breaking the bank. You'll learn how to leverage your creativity, community, and cost-effective tactics to drive engagement and propel your indie game to success.


#IndieGameBusiness #VideoGameMarketing #IndieGameMarketing #HowToMarketAGame

Feb 29, 202459:56
Lighting Round! Publishers Pitching to Developers

Lighting Round! Publishers Pitching to Developers

Calling all developers! We've gathered together people from various publishers and they are going to pitch their services to you! During this session, learn about each publisher as they each spend 5-10 minutes talking about what types of support and services they offer. This is a chance to learn more about who might be a good fit for your game!


#GamePublishers #IndieGameBusiness #CheckOutGamePublishers

Feb 28, 202401:05:45
Is Crowdfunding Still An Option?

Is Crowdfunding Still An Option?

Crowdfunding as a model has changed significantly over the years. Now more than ever there are different funding options and models, so is crowdfunding still an option for indie devs? Has the hype died, or is crowdfunding still a viable option to fund your game?


Let's go through the history of crowdfunding and where it currently stands for the video game industry.


#IndieGameBusiness #CrowdfundingGames #IndieGames

Feb 27, 202458:39
Indie Gold: Crafting Budgets and Scopes Publishers Can't Resist!

Indie Gold: Crafting Budgets and Scopes Publishers Can't Resist!

Embark on a journey into the heart of indie game development, where budgeting and scoping are the keys to unlocking publisher interest. Join this empowering session to create budgets and scopes that make financial sense and captivate publishers, paving the way for indie success.


Navigate the treacherous waters of common pitfalls and red flags, and discover practical strategies, real-world examples, and industry insights to turn your indie dream into reality. It's time to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with both creativity and financial prudence.


#IndieGameBusiness #GameBudgets #WorkingWithPublishers

Feb 26, 202457:15
Incubation Programs as Success Booster - What's in it for Game Developers?

Incubation Programs as Success Booster - What's in it for Game Developers?

Starting out as an indie development studio is tough: while the indie scene is rich of wonderful ideas and talented developers, many struggle to secure funding, to raise awareness for their game with publishers and customers, or to develop a proper communication strategy for their game.


This talk elaborates how incubation and acceleration programs can help to close these gaps. It gives an overview about existing programs worldwide and insights from former participants of the Games Lift Incubator in Hamburg, Germany.


#IndieGameBusiness #GamingBusiness #GamingIncubators

Feb 25, 202401:01:51
How to Target the Market - Passpartout 2 Case Study

How to Target the Market - Passpartout 2 Case Study

Join Miya for an exploration of the global and Asian markets, uncovering Steam's localization strategies. Gain valuable insights to boost sales in Asian regions and take a deep dive into Flamebait's Case Study, unraveling the secrets behind the 1M sales of Passpartout and its sequel.


#IndieGameBusiness #GameMarketing #AsianGamingMarkets

Feb 24, 202459:24
From Chaos to Harmony: The Dual Nature of Community Management

From Chaos to Harmony: The Dual Nature of Community Management

Explore the nuanced facets of community management with Ash in this insightful session. Delving into both the positive and challenging aspects often overlooked in discussions, she will provide valuable insights into supporting and retaining community managers. Discover strategies for finding a skilled community manager for your indie project, understand fundamental community manager responsibilities, and gain practical tips for organizational efficiency – 'Neurospicy' edition.

Feb 23, 202401:02:22
5 ways the UX of your toolset improves the quality of your games

5 ways the UX of your toolset improves the quality of your games

New features in tools are neat, especially if you can make them yourself, but without good UX you and your team are still be limited in what they can accomplish. How can you improve the UX of your own tools? And what kind of UX improvements can you ask of tool developers, whose tools you buy to create your games?


So lets walk through some examples! Such as:


1. The power of asking why, why, why, why, why.

2. The critical flaw of asset browsers

3. The power of spatial documentation

4. The interconnected nature of narrative tools

5. The key UX differences between Unity and Unreal


#IndieGameusiness #UX #GameUX

Feb 22, 202459:15
What Does the Future of the Gaming Industry Look Like?

What Does the Future of the Gaming Industry Look Like?

Welcome to another episode of IndieGameBusiness!

Today, we're honored to have Jaye "Letta J" Watts, Founder & CEO of Coexist Gaming, here to discuss the captivating topic of "What Does the Future of the Gaming Industry Look Like?"

In our conversation, Letta J will share insights into the business of gaming, emphasizing the importance of representation and creative development. We'll delve into what true inclusion looks like in games and explore how community engagement within the industry translates into meaningful representation.

Letta J's unique journey into the game industry, converting her Brooklyn duplex into a video game bar and lounge, adds a fascinating perspective to our discussion. Together, we'll unravel the layers of the gaming industry's future and the evolving landscape of inclusivity.


Stay connected with Jaye "Letta J" Watts on various social platforms:

Twitter: x.com/lettajmusic

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jayewatts

Facebook (Letta J): facebook.com/lettajmusic

Facebook (Coexist Gaming): facebook.com/coexistgaming

Instagram (Letta J): instagram.com/lettajmusic

Instagram (Coexist Gaming): instagram.com/coexistgaming


#GamingIndustryFuture #CoexistGaming #InclusionInGames #IndieGameBusiness #LettaJWatts #CreativeDevelopment #RepresentationInGaming

Feb 02, 202401:08:37
Lessons Learned from Running a Game Studio for 15 Years

Lessons Learned from Running a Game Studio for 15 Years

Welcome to another insightful episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're joined by Mike Sanders, CEO and Studio Manager, of Puny Human, to discuss his experiences starting and running an indie game studio for 15 years.

Throughout our conversation, Mike is going to also share his experiences working as a Tech Producer with Carbonated, running the GameDev Executive Support Discord group, and initiating a new game conference. He is also going to touch on providing valuable insights on how individuals can best enter the gaming industry.

We'll explore topics ranging from networking and working with investors to game development, engine considerations, and the dynamics of running a game studio with medium to large teams. Mike will also discuss porting games, scope control, and other things as time allows.

Stay connected with Mike Sanders on Twitter and LinkedIn:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/urinalcake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeysanders/


#GamingIndustryInsights #GameDevelopment #PunyHuman #IndieGameBusiness #CareerAdvice #MikeSanders #GameDevExecutiveSupport #NetworkingInGaming #IndieGameBusiness

Jan 26, 202401:11:54
Indie Game Content Creation and Social Media Growth

Indie Game Content Creation and Social Media Growth

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're thrilled to have Sam Goddard, Founder of BLACKBOX Studios, Game Developer, and Content Creator, here to share insights on "Indie Game Content Creation and Social Media Growth."




Throughout our discussion, Sam will provide valuable insights into strategies for social media growth, effective content creation in the indie game space, and his experiences as both a game developer and content creator. We'll explore the intersection of fan games, discussing the dynamics involved, and take a closer look at Sam's own project, Mecha Attack.




Sam is open to diverse discussions, so we'll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics related to indie game development, content creation, and any other interesting points that come up.




Connect with Sam Goddard on LinkedIn to stay updated with his insights and projects:




LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-goddard-684777138/




Join us for an engaging conversation about the world of indie game development, content creation, and the exciting journey of creating Mecha Attack!




#IndieGameDevelopment #ContentCreation #SocialMediaGrowth #MechaAttack #IndieGameBiz #IndieGameBusiness

Jan 20, 202401:06:37
How to Make the Perfect Pitch Deck for Your Indie Game

How to Make the Perfect Pitch Deck for Your Indie Game

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness!

In this episode, we're thrilled to have Chris White, SVP of Business Development and Content Acquisitions at Green Man Gaming, sharing insights on "How to Make the Perfect Pitch Deck for Your Indie Game."

Throughout our discussion, Chris will provide valuable tips on crafting an effective pitch deck. We'll explore questions like the ideal length for a pitch deck, how to address a lack of experience, and the importance of conveying financial information even if numbers seem daunting.

Chris will share advice on following up with a publisher after sending a pitch, handling changes to your project, and transitioning from unsuccessful pitching to self-publishing. We'll also discuss common issues seen in pitch decks and strategies to avoid them.


Stay connected with Chris White on social media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomerosSoldier

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswhite87/


#PitchDeck #IndieGamePitching #GreenManGaming #BusinessDevelopment #IndieGameBusiness #EffectivePitching #ChrisWhite

Jan 20, 202401:27:05
Make Your Video Game Soundtrack AWESOME!

Make Your Video Game Soundtrack AWESOME!

Welcome to the first episode of IndieGameBusiness in 2024!

Today, we have special guests Otis Rachtman from Mind Your Music, and we're diving into the captivating topic of "Make Your Video Game Soundtrack AWESOME!"

In this episode, we'll explore the art of crafting outstanding video game soundtracks. Otis, having grown up with video games, will provide a unique perspective on how gaming has influenced his musical sensibilities.

We'll discuss the interactive aspect of games and how it affects the approach to music. Otis will reflect on movies and games that have shaped their passion for soundtracks and the challenges unique to game soundtracks compared to movies and TV.

The conversation will also touch on the concept of "streamer modes" in games, which alter or replace licensed music, and explore the hopes for the future of game soundtracks.

Connect with Karyn Rachtman and Otis Rachtman on LinkedIn and explore Mind Your Music on social media:


Karyn Rachtman:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karynrachtman/


Otis Rachtman:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/otis-rachtman/


Mind Your Music:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindyourmusicllc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mind.your.music/?hl=en


#IndieGameSoundtrack #GameMusic #MindYourMusic #KarynRachtman #OtisRachtman #IndieGameBusiness #GameDevelopment #MusicSupervision

Jan 20, 202401:07:01
Using Kickstarter for Your Indie Game

Using Kickstarter for Your Indie Game

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! In this episode, we have a special guest, Michael Liebe, Outreach Games Europe Lead at Kickstarter, who will enlighten us on "Using Kickstarter for Your Indie Game."




During our conversation, we will explore the role of Kickstarter in the funding mix for indie games and consider which other sources of funding it complements. We'll delve into the relationship between Kickstarter and publishers, examining their preferences and attitudes toward crowdfunding.




Michael will share insights on why Kickstarter should be viewed as a proof of concept, encompassing aspects such as team dynamics, productivity, stamina, and bravery, beyond audience testing and marketing.




We'll also discuss the current happenings in the games industry, including insights from gamesweekberlin and the strategies involved in pivoting a business in a dynamic environment. Lastly, we'll consider the unique dynamics of Kickstarter and the gaming world in Europe.




To stay updated with Michael Liebe, you can connect with him on social media:




Twitter: https://twitter.com/liebe_micha


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelliebe/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/liebe_micha




#Kickstarter #IndieGameFunding #Crowdfunding #ProofOfConcept #Gamesweekberlin #IndieGameBusiness #MichaelLiebe #GameIndustryInsights #EuropeGaming

Dec 07, 202301:06:29
Should You Use a Publisher for Your Video Game?

Should You Use a Publisher for Your Video Game?

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! In this episode, we are delighted to have Gombos József and Szőke György from Balcony Softworks, discussing the intriguing topic of "Should You Use a Publisher for Your Indie Game?"




During our conversation, Gombos and Szőke will shed light on a range of important subjects in the indie game development landscape. We will delve into topics like early access and the challenges of working with a custom game engine. We'll explore how to navigate a rough game launch, the vital role of playtesting, and the art of handling player feedback effectively.




We will also discuss the merits of creating your own game engine, the considerations when working with a publisher, and the significance of addressing issues like crunch and burnout in the industry.




To stay updated with Balcony Softworks, you can connect with them on Twitter:




Twitter: https://twitter.com/BalconyTeam




Join us for this insightful discussion on indie game development, publishing, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.




#igb #indiegamebusiness #gamedev #indiegamedev #gamepublisher

Nov 17, 202301:03:60
How to Get Funding, Investments, and Publishing Your Indie Game

How to Get Funding, Investments, and Publishing Your Indie Game

Welcome to another episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're thrilled to have Justin Berenbaum, VP Strategy & GM at Xsolla Funding Club, sharing insights on "How to Get Funding, Investments, and Publishing Your Indie Game."




In this episode, Justin will provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of funding for indie games. We'll explore the nuances between equity and project funding, dive into platform planning and effective pitching strategies, and discuss best practices for building and maintaining relationships in the gaming industry.




Join us as we unravel the intricacies of game funding, investing, and publishing, along with a glance at emerging technologies shaping the future of the gaming landscape.




Connect with Justin Berenbaum on social media to stay updated:




Twitter: https://twitter.com/scslug


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jberenbaum/


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jberenbaum




#IndieGameBusiness #GameFunding #IndieGameInvestments #GamePublishing #XsollaFundingClub #GamingIndustryInsights #EmergingTech #JustinBerenbaum

Oct 29, 202301:10:51
China Market Entry 101 for Indie Devs

China Market Entry 101 for Indie Devs

During this session, we will take a deep dive into the Chinese gaming market, uncovering insights that are not commonly shared in western media. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the market and your target audience, you will be better equipped to strategize your game publishing plan. So, join me on this exciting journey as we explore the fascinating world of the Chinese gaming industry. Sit back, relax, and let's embark on this adventure together.




#ChineseGamingMarket #GamePublishingStrategy #MarketInsights #ChineseGamingIndustry #GamingIndustryExploration

Oct 24, 202301:01:24
From Weapon Skins to Workshops: The Business of User Generated Content

From Weapon Skins to Workshops: The Business of User Generated Content

Since Lode Runner in 1983, user generated content has been a staple of game development. Opening up further expansion of games to their communities has been a tried and true method of extending a game's lifespan for years or even decades. The advent of social media has introduced new forms of UGC as well, tying in-game tools with social elements via pictures, video, and streaming. In this talk, we'll discuss various business benefits of implementing UGC tools, platforms, and support into your game and its marketing strategies, and directions you can take to develop a healthy creator community.




#UserGeneratedContent #GameDevelopment #CommunityEngagement #UGCInGaming #CreatorCommunity

Oct 23, 202301:03:51
How Micro-Influencers Drive Engagement and Sales

How Micro-Influencers Drive Engagement and Sales

This topic will explore how working with micro-influencers can be a highly effective strategy for driving engagement and sales in the gaming industry.




- Understanding the role of micro-influencers in driving engagement and sales for game developers.


- Identifying the key strategies to collaborate with micro-influencers and optimize their impact effectively.


- Leveraging data and analytics to measure the success of micro-influencer campaigns and make data-driven decisions for future marketing efforts.

Oct 21, 202301:00:38
Mastering Indie Game Success: Marketing, Publishing, and Influencer Strategies Revealed!

Mastering Indie Game Success: Marketing, Publishing, and Influencer Strategies Revealed!

Welcome to another enlightening episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we have Sam De Boeck, Founder of Oro Interactive, with us to discuss "Mastering Indie Game Success: Marketing, Publishing, and Influencer Strategies Revealed!"




In this episode, we'll uncover valuable insights into the world of indie game success. Sam will share strategies on how to get influencers to play your game and the importance of participating in Steam events. We'll delve into the intricacies of optimizing your Steam store page for maximum impact and explore the fundamentals of creating compelling publisher pitch decks.




Additionally, we'll discuss the crucial aspects of publisher research, understanding when to self-publish, and the dynamic intersection of marketing and publishers in the indie game landscape.




Stay connected with Sam De Boeck on LinkedIn and Twitter for more insights:




LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-de-boeck-632b68169/


Twitter: https://twitter.com/OroInteractive




#IndieGameSuccess #GameMarketing #IndieGamePublishing #InfluencerStrategies #SteamEvents #PublisherPitchDecks #SelfPublishing #OroInteractive #SamDeBoeck #IndieGameBusiness

Oct 20, 202301:09:40
How to Lead a Cross-Cultural Team

How to Lead a Cross-Cultural Team

Learn how Tina’s expertise in leadership development and team facilitation, combined with her unique cross-cultural insights, translates into fostering innovative and inclusive workspaces. From explicit, direct communication styles to more harmonious, face-saving approaches, Tina unravels the nuanced dynamics of cross-cultural interactions. Additionally, she will explore the intersection of cultural values and performance management and gain practical insights into how Cultural Intelligence applies to optimizing team performance, ensuring that your leadership style is not only effective but also culturally sensitive.

Oct 20, 202301:01:23
I got a job in the game industry with no prior experience, and you can too!

I got a job in the game industry with no prior experience, and you can too!

I will be discussing what experience I did have before being hired in the game industry. I believe that all skills are transferable and can be used when applying to all jobs. Everyone has something that can be helpful to an employer.




Key Takeaways are: what are you doing now and how can it help you for your next job, what CAN you do to help you get that next job, how networking and volunteering can get that first foot in the door.




#TransferableSkills, #CareerDevelopment, #NetworkingTips, #JobSearchAdvice, #ProfessionalGrowth

Oct 20, 202301:02:38
Pick an audience and stick to it. The power of knowing your players.

Pick an audience and stick to it. The power of knowing your players.

Some games are for everyone, and some aren't.


Picking an audience or developing a game for a specific target of players undoubtedly comes with its set of risks and benefits. Knowing them and understanding how they can impact the development cycle is key to a successful product launch.


From qualitative analysis to statistical scanning, the power of numbers mixed with the power of trends and opinions can define the success or failure of a game.




How we use the correct tools, and how they impact the decision-making process is the key to releasing a game that pleases the players.




#GameAudience, #GameDevelopmentStrategy, #DataDrivenGaming, #GameSuccessFactors, #PlayerSatisfaction

Oct 17, 202301:01:51
Putting A Stop To Toxicity - It's just good business

Putting A Stop To Toxicity - It's just good business

As the internet and game communities have grown, toxicity has become more of a problem both in and out of games, and it could be hurting your bottom line. With hundreds of new games released a month, you need to work hard to make sure your game and social spaces are a place that players want to congregate and keep coming back to, or face losing them. The importance of a good community team, moderation, tools and techniques will be highlighted as we go over some of the key community challenges faced by developers and publishers today.




#GamingCommunity, #ToxicityPrevention, #CommunityManagement, #GameDevChallenges, #PlayerRetention

Oct 17, 202358:43
Standing out: How to pitch your game

Standing out: How to pitch your game

This is an overview of what you need to consider if you’re pitching your game to funds or publishers. It will give you an idea of how to prepare, what kinds of questions to be ready for, and some tips on how to make your game pitch really shine!




#GamePitchingTips, #FundingYourGame, #PublishingYourGame, #PitchingStrategies, #GameDevelopmentInsights

Oct 16, 202301:00:32
Things I wish I knew before I started my own indie studio

Things I wish I knew before I started my own indie studio

Starting an indie studio is easy. Maintaining one is like taking care of a child, a life you are now responsible for, and suddenly you're not sure if you're even up to the task. My own experience of starting and running an indie studio, things I learned along the way, things I wished I knew before, and how this may or may not prepare you to start your own studio journey!




#IndieStudioLife, #IndieGameDev, #StudioJourney, #IndieGameWisdom, #StudioChallenges

Oct 16, 202301:14:50
Publishing vs Self Publishing Your Indie Game

Publishing vs Self Publishing Your Indie Game

Welcome to another episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we have a special duo with us: Lucas Pessoa de Freitas, Business Developer Manager at Robot Teddy, and Richie de Wit, Founder & Business Development Consultant at Bear Knuckle. Our focus for today's discussion is the ever-relevant topic of "Publishing vs Self-Publishing."




In this episode, we'll dive into the nuances of publishing and self-publishing, exploring factors such as ownership, risk-taking, and the reasons behind choosing one approach over the other. Our guests will share insights into the considerations that go beyond financial aspects and why prioritization is crucial.




We'll also explore the challenges and rewards of running a game development business versus developing games as a side project. Business development will take center stage, with a deep dive into its role at every stage of game development when pursuing a self-publishing route.




Strategic thinking about funding opportunities, the importance of networking, and approaches to building valuable connections in the industry will be key themes. Our guests will share their experiences and expertise in funding, investing, publishing, and navigating emerging technologies.




Stay connected with Richie de Wit and Lucas Pessoa de Freitas on social media:




Richie de Wit:




Twitter: https://twitter.com/richiedewit


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richiedewit/




Lucas Pessoa de Freitas:




Twitter: https://twitter.com/lucaspessoaf


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucaspessoaf/




Join us for this insightful discussion on publishing vs self-publishing, business development, funding, and emerging tech. It's sure to be a valuable episode!




#IndieGameBiz #PublishingVsSelfPublishing #GameDevelopment #BusinessDevelopment #FundingOpportunities #IndieGameNetworking

Oct 13, 202301:26:57
The Future of Indie Games: Brand/IP, Multiverse, Digital Storefronts, Steam Alternatives

The Future of Indie Games: Brand/IP, Multiverse, Digital Storefronts, Steam Alternatives

Welcome to another exciting episode of IndieGameBusiness! Our guest today is Casey Al-kaisy, CEO and consultant of Ashes & Diamonds and Founder of the Mighty Diamonds consultancy network. We're diving into "The Future of Indie Games: Brand/IP, Multiverse, Digital Storefronts, Steam Alternatives, and Startup Struggles Unveiled."




In this episode, we'll explore the intricate world of game economics and business strategies for indie games. Casey will share insights into the challenges of game pricing, the influence of mob-mentality in game making, and how to achieve success with live service titles. The AERMO model (Acquisition, Engagement, Retention, Monetization, and Operation) will be unpacked, along with discussions on player journeys, onboarding strategies, and the significance of A/B testing.




We'll also delve into the complexities of the metaverse, the growing importance of Brand/IP in the gaming industry, and the future of game creation. Casey will share thoughts on the democratization of digital storefronts, alternatives to Steam, and the unique challenges faced by startups in the gaming realm.




Connect with Casey Al-kaisy on social media to stay updated with his insights:




Twitter: https://twitter.com/BringMoreBread


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-al-kaisy-b053b64b/




#IndieGameBusiness #GameEconomics #LiveServices #Multiverse #DigitalStorefronts #BrandIP #AERMOModel #GamingIndustry #StartupStruggles #CaseyAlKaisy

Oct 13, 202301:15:54
Fundraising Hacks for your Indie Game Business

Fundraising Hacks for your Indie Game Business

Did you know that over 50% of indie games never make more than $4,000 because of a lack of funding and exhausting self-funds mostly in the development phase?




Primarily, most indie studio starts from self-funding. But after some time to make ends meet while designing new games simultaneously? That’s some hassle indeed. Not to mention the obstacles one needs to face while raising funds for your dream project. Funding is one of the main challenges facing an indie studio trying to create a video game.




Each step of the process, from developing or acquiring certain assets to selling them, takes money, and without adequate funds, the game may be over before it really starts. Finding the right investors might be challenging, yet they are a regular source of financing as investors aren't the only source of funding. Besides after securing funds comes the proper distribution and management of the fund. I will share my past and recent encounters with funding and my talk will focus on what to do and what not to do during investor hunting, managing investor relationships while managing funds.




#IndieGameFunding, #IndieStudioChallenges, #FundingStruggles, #InvestorHunting, #ManagingFunds

Oct 11, 202350:25
Business Succession and Continuity for Solo Indie Developers

Business Succession and Continuity for Solo Indie Developers

Solo indie sev life has a lot of appeal: you have total control over your studio’s creative, technical, and business decisions and seeing your game through according to your vision.




But solo dev life gets hard. You’re running a business by yourself in addition to the creative aspects, so what happens if you become severely ill? What kind of external support do you have set up for when times are good, let alone when disaster strikes?




You might think that succession and continuity planning only applies to larger companies, but here’s why and how indie teams of one need to set them up!




#SoloIndieDev, #IndieGameLife, #ContinuityPlanning, #IndieDevChallenges, #SoloDevSupport

Oct 11, 202301:03:53
 Working With a Publisher While Releasing Your First Indie Game

Working With a Publisher While Releasing Your First Indie Game

Join Arnaud Planche, Founder and Director of Bontemps Games, as he takes you on a captivating journey of creating a wholesome game.


In this video, Arnaud shares insights into what inspired him to start working on the project and provides firsthand experiences of pitching the game.


He also delves into the process of working with a publisher for the first time and discusses the meaning of a wholesome game.


Arnaud shares why he specifically chose to create a game with a wholesome theme and reflects on how game development has matched his expectations.


If you're interested in learning about releasing your first commercial game, pitching ideas, collaborating with a publisher, or anything related to making a wholesome game, this video is a must-watch.


Stay connected with Arnaud Planche on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArnaudPlanche and LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/arnaud-planche for more updates.



#IndieGameDevelopment #WholesomeGaming #PitchingIdeas #PublisherCollaboration #GameDevelopmentJourney #BontempsGames #indieGameBusiness #indiedev #indiegamedev

Chapters


Oct 05, 202301:02:32
5 oopsies you're making while marketing your game!

5 oopsies you're making while marketing your game!

As an indie dev, you wish you could only focus on making your dream game while others help you with the marketing part, huh? But what if there’s little budget and have to do it by yourself? No biggie, because you can do much to help your game reach your audience with very little!




The problem is... there seems to be a consistent type of mistake all devs make, even marketing people themselves! So, that's the purpose of this session, teaching you what you can do and what you should definitely NOT do.




We all want solutions, after all, not problems!




#IndieDevMarketing #GameMarketingTips #BudgetMarketing #IndieGamePromotion #MarketingMistakes

Oct 05, 202301:05:11
Company Growth & Investment Strategy

Company Growth & Investment Strategy

The session will cover various topics such as the various methods of company growth and fund acquisition, types of investments in gaming, comprehending the requirements of both publishers and investors, as well as gamers. We'll also discuss negotiation strategies, approaching gamers and fostering connections, navigating challenging economic times, and more.




#GameCompanyGrowth #FundAcquisition #InvestmentInGaming #NegotiationStrategies #GamerEngagement #EconomicChallenges

Oct 04, 202301:01:03
Baby On Board: The Sweet Baby Inc Story

Baby On Board: The Sweet Baby Inc Story

Sweet Baby Inc is a client-based narrative development company working to bring video game stories to life and collaborating with teams all over the world. Working as a diverse crew, they've worked on over 70 games taking a representation-led approach to narrative, and an adaptable, solutions-based approach to every project. While outsourced writing and story work aren't unheard of in the industry, SBI has helped hew a new path towards deeper collaboration and worker-focused production, opening doors for new and marginalized voices to thrive.




#SweetBabyInc #NarrativeDevelopment #GameStorytelling #DiverseCollaboration #RepresentationInGaming

Oct 02, 202301:02:26
Unleashing the Power of AI to Personalize Games

Unleashing the Power of AI to Personalize Games

We’ll explore how AI can revolutionize the gaming industry by driving innovation in game design, enhancing player engagement, and fostering player fulfillment. By leveraging insights from cognitive science and AI, game developers can dynamically tailor game experiences to match each player's unique playstyle and preferences. By understanding the player's cognitive skills, personality traits, and motivations, developers can offer personalized game recommendations, optimize gameplay difficulty, progression, rewards, and balance, all in real-time.




#AIInGaming #GameDesignInnovation #PlayerEngagement #PersonalizedGaming #CognitiveScienceInGaming

Sep 30, 202359:57
The Decisions it Takes to Run a Successful Game Studio

The Decisions it Takes to Run a Successful Game Studio

Join us for a fireside chat with Tatyana Dyshlova, CEO and co-founder of FuzzyBot Games. She will talk about her experience starting a studio, getting funding, growing a studio, and all the other things that are needed to for a successful studio.




#FiresideChat #GameStudioStartup #FundingJourney #StudioGrowth #SuccessStories

Sep 30, 202301:01:31
Discussing how to maximize your IP with a video game lawyer

Discussing how to maximize your IP with a video game lawyer

Intellectual property law is a complex and fascinating field that is critical to any video game developer. Understanding the nuances of intellectual property will help game developers create an effective strategy that maximizes the potential in their IP. This presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of intellectual property law, equipping attendees with the knowledge and tools they need to create an effective intellectual property strategy roadmap.




#IntellectualPropertyLaw #GameDevIP #IPStrategy #LegalKnowledge #IPStrategyRoadmap

Sep 28, 202301:05:33
How the Video Game Industry has Evolved Since 2001

How the Video Game Industry has Evolved Since 2001

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! In this episode, we are excited to have Larry Kuperman, Director of Business Development at Nightdive Studios, as our special guest. Today, we'll be delving into the evolution of the video game industry since 2001 and discussing the current state of gaming.

Larry will share insights into how the industry has transformed over the years, reflecting on key developments, trends, and innovations that have shaped the gaming landscape. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities that have emerged and how studios like Nightdive have adapted to these changes.

Additionally, we'll address recent events and the general tone of the industry, considering topics like the sustainability of careers in game development.




To stay updated with Larry Kuperman and Nightdive Studios, you can connect with him on social media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LarryNightDive

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrykuperman/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/larry.kuperman


Join us for this engaging discussion on the evolution of the video game industry and the current state of gaming. Don't miss it!

Sep 22, 202301:09:16
How To Find A Publisher For Your Indie Game

How To Find A Publisher For Your Indie Game

Welcome to a very insightful episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we have Marcin Krzeszowiec, a Board member and Technical Artist at Serious Sim, here to share his expertise on "How to Find a Publisher."


During our conversation, Marcin will delve into the fascinating realm of publishers, addressing their attitude and approach to pitches. He will offer insights into the expectations and realities of "serious business meetings." Join us as we explore the delicate balance between creating an original and unique idea while also fitting into the mold of a popular game.


We will also discuss the technical aspects of working with Unity in a remote environment, providing valuable insights for game development professionals.


If you're curious about the journey of finding a publisher and the challenges it entails, you won't want to miss this episode.


Connect with Serious Sim on LinkedIn for more insights and updates:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/serious-sim/


#GamePublishing #PublisherPitches #GameDevelopment #UniqueIdeas #PopularGames #UnityDevelopment #RemoteWorking #SeriousSim #MarcinKrzeszowiec #GameIndustryInsights #IndieGameDevelopment

Sep 15, 202301:09:60