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Indie Game Lunch Hour

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Real stories from real game developers about breaking into the video game industry. Welcome to the Indie Game Lunch Hour, hosted by the Indie Game Academy! Listen in or join live. Our podcast is hosted and recorded live on our Discord. Each Wednesday at 12pm EST we interview experts in the game industry and give community members like YOU a chance to ask them questions. We cover breaking into the indie game industry, publishing games, game design and so much more. Join the Discord

Location:

United States

Description:

Real stories from real game developers about breaking into the video game industry. Welcome to the Indie Game Lunch Hour, hosted by the Indie Game Academy! Listen in or join live. Our podcast is hosted and recorded live on our Discord. Each Wednesday at 12pm EST we interview experts in the game industry and give community members like YOU a chance to ask them questions. We cover breaking into the indie game industry, publishing games, game design and so much more. Join the Discord

Language:

English


Episodes
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Forge & Flourish: Crafting Resilience in Game Development

5/15/2024
Join us as we chat with George, the visionary behind Juggernaut Games. Founded in 2011 with a team of passionate indie devs, George has embraced the ups and downs of game development, finding success through resilience and innovation. Discover his journey of "failing forward" and learn valuable insights into thriving in the indie game industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on creativity, perseverance, and the art of game creation. Learn more about George Learn more about Juggernaut Games Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:55:23

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How You Can Achieve Your Games Dreams

5/8/2024
Join us in this episode as we delve into the dynamic world of gaming and professional development with Amir Satvat, Business Development Director at Tencent Games in North America. With nearly two decades of experience across industry giants like Amazon, Amir is a seasoned leader with academic prowess from institutions like Wharton and NYU. Discover how he fosters career growth through LinkedIn's largest Top Voice games community, facilitating over 1,600 job placements and 27,000 career coaching conversations via amirsatvat.com. Explore his commitment to positive change in gaming and beyond through advisory roles at PlaySide Studios and the Zero Abuse Project. Learn more about Amir Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:01:32

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How to Game Jam Right: A Beginner's Guide

5/1/2024
In this special community episode, join us as we dive into the world of game jams! Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, this beginner's guide will provide you with valuable insights, and tips to make the most out of your next game jam experience. Tune in to discover how to unleash your creativity, manage your time effectively, and collaborate efficiently to create memorable games! Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:05:08

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We Ran a 40-Person, AA-Sized Game Jam

4/24/2024
In this special episode, we delve into the magic behind the making of "Child of Ruin," an enchanting narrative RPG born from the collaborative efforts of 40 wizards from the Indie Game Academy. Discover the story behind the game's creation, the challenges faced by the team, and the journey from concept to reality. We also explored the unique voice acting contributions that breathe life into this enchanting adventure. Whether you're a gamer, developer, or simply curious about the creative process, this episode offers insights and inspiration aplenty. Learn more about Child Of Ruin Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:01:31

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Importance of Understanding Your Audience

4/17/2024
Explore the world of indie game marketing with guest Andrew Pappas, founder of Rengen Marketing and host of the Indie Game Movement podcast. In this episode, Andrew shares his expertise on understanding your audience, drawing from his experiences speaking at renowned events like GDC and PAX. Gain valuable insights into the importance of audience analysis for indie game developers and how it can shape effective marketing strategies. Learn more about Andrew Learn more about Indie Game Movement Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:01:35

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What Does It Take To Be a Combat Designer?

4/10/2024
Join us in this episode as we delve into the world of combat design with Bader AlQahtani, a graduate of the NYU Game Center and Combat Designer at Studio Pixanoh. We explore what it takes to craft engaging combat experiences, drawing from Bader's experience working alongside industry veterans from Riot Games, Blizzard, and Bethesda. Discover the intricacies behind his notable project, Dragon Ball Demon Breaker, hailed as one of the best fan-games in the Dragon Ball universe by GameInformer, GameRant, and TheGamer. Learn more about Bader Learn more about Studio Pixanoh Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:51:54

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Resilience In The Job Hunt

4/3/2024
Join us in this episode as we delve into the world of job hunting with Tim Wood, a seasoned headhunter, copywriter, and multi-talented individual. From his experiences in recruiting top talent in the gaming industry to his passion for martial arts and writing, Tim shares insights on resilience and adaptability in navigating the competitive job market. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, this episode promises valuable tips and inspiration for staying resilient in your job hunt. Learn more about Tim Learn more about Writer Finder Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:14:51

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All about Independent Games

3/27/2024
Explore the world of independent games with our guest, a seasoned professional in the gaming industry. Starting as a QA tester at Bethesda Softworks, he transitioned into a successful career as a game developer and engineer, releasing his own projects along the way. Now, as a Game Director at Kongregate, he balances his time between leading major projects and pursuing his passion for independent games. Join us as we delve into his journey and insights into the vibrant world of indie gaming. Learn more about Jake Learn more about Kongregate Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:56:58

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About Communities... ?

3/20/2024
Join us for a special community-focused episode as we dive into the world of building communities in the gaming industry. In this episode, we chat with members of the Indie Game Academy community, comprised of passionate game developers and enthusiasts. Discover firsthand insights and strategies on how to cultivate a thriving community straight from those who are actively shaping it. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a gaming aficionado, this episode offers valuable takeaways on fostering engagement, collaboration, and success within gaming communities. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:49:07

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How To Make Your Multiplayer Game Survive Launch Day

3/13/2024
In this episode, we sit down with Paolo, a seasoned veteran with a decade of experience in multiplayer game development. Former CEO of StarworkGC S.R.L., the studio behind the awesome game Hunt For Gods, Paolo now leads development at Ariokan and serves as Unity's Technical Lead for Small Scale Competitive Multiplayer Template. With insights honed through years of industry experience, Paolo shares invaluable tips and strategies on how to ensure your multiplayer game not only survives but thrives on launch day. Whether you're an indie developer or part of a larger studio, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the competitive landscape of multiplayer game development. Learn more about Paolo Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:57:10

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Importance of Commercialization

3/6/2024
Embark on an exciting journey into the world of gaming commercialization with Alessandro, an experienced business development and PR expert. Join us as we uncover the essential strategies for success, from forging strategic partnerships to elevating brands. Get ready for a lively discussion on harnessing the power of commercialization for lasting impact in the gaming industry! Learn more about Alessandro Learn more about Xsolla Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:00:58

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LinkedIn Coldcalling and Network Building

2/28/2024
Join us this week on our podcast as we delve into the art of LinkedIn cold calling and network building with our guest, a seasoned level designer who's currently shaping the landscape of UEFN in collaboration with Creators Corp for the Fortnite Creative ecosystem. Gain insights and strategies from their wealth of experience in navigating professional connections and forging meaningful relationships in the industry. Learn more about Nick Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:53:47

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Why Do We Continue To Play Games Beyond The Campaign?

2/21/2024
Tune in to our podcast as we sit down with Scott, a seasoned Systems Designer at Skydance Interactive, currently immersed in the innovative world of Behemoth VR. With a knack for crafting engaging gameplay experiences, Scott's expertise extends beyond the virtual realm; he's also a celebrated LinkedIn Top Voice in Game Design. Delve into his journey, from managing the live operations of a top sports game to sharing invaluable insights through his revered game design blog and newsletter, Signposted. Join us for a captivating discussion on the ever-evolving landscape of game design and beyond. Learn more about Scott Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:01:09

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Community Focus: Imposter Syndrome and Getting over the Fear of Failure

2/14/2024
In this episode, we tackle imposter syndrome head-on, exploring how it affects our community and sharing strategies to overcome the fear of failure. Through insights and personal stories, we uncover practical tips for reframing success, building resilience, and fostering a supportive environment. Join us as we empower listeners to embrace authenticity and self-compassion on their journey to personal and professional growth. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:44:09

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Decoding Game Development: Navigating the Fundamentals of the Creative Process

2/7/2024
Join us as we sit down with Steve Fox, a seasoned veteran in the gaming industry with a decade of experience as Lead Game Developer and Prototype Artist at WildWorks, the creators of the massively popular MMO, Animal Jam. With a staggering user base of over 127 million players, Steve's insights into game development and online communities are invaluable. Currently, he's spearheading projects at ModStorm, a cutting-edge web-based browser platform poised to challenge industry giants like Roblox. Additionally, Steve is blazing his own trail with Space Gnome Studio, where he's dedicated to helping both indie and professional game developers bridge the gaps in their projects, transforming their visions into reality. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of gaming with one of its brightest innovators! Learn more about Steve Learn more about Space Gnome Studio Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:03:25

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The $6 Million Franchise: Lessons from 14 years as a Solopreneur

1/31/2024
Get ready to explore the dynamic world of solo indie game development in this episode featuring the incredible Joe. With over 14 years as a solo-indie, Joe's Clutter series has amassed close to $6 million in sales across 14+ games! Fresh from launching his 15th game, Joe shares how Clutter has become its own sub-genre in Hidden Object Games. Join us as we delve into his #1 ranking on Big Fish Games in 2023, his active role in the Georgia Game Dev community, and the insights gained from his numerous game-dev talks. Brace yourself for an engaging episode filled with Joe's enthusiasm and expertise in the solo indie game development scene! Learn more about Joe Learn more about Puzzles by Joe Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:55:28

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Community Focus: How We Approach Networking In Our Own Unique Ways

1/24/2024
Join us in this episode as we dive into the diverse strategies and experiences within our community's approach to networking. From unconventional methods to tried-and-true approaches, we celebrate the richness of our collective networking endeavors. Tune in to explore the myriad paths we traverse to forge meaningful connections. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:51:27

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Deadly Mistakes That Can Kill Your Multiplayer Project And How To Avoid Them

1/17/2024
Join us on this episode as we sit down with Paolo Abela, a seasoned game developer with a decade of expertise in the multiplayer gaming realm. Having served as the CEO of StarworkGC S.R.L, the innovative gaming studio behind Hunt For Gods, Paolo now takes the lead as the Developer at Ariokan and Technical lead of Unity's official Small Scale Competitive Multiplayer Template. Tune in to gain insights from his wealth of experience, including his role as a consultant for Indie and AA studios navigating the intricate world of multiplayer game development. Learn more about Paolo Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:49:42

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Creating Intimate Player Connections to the Game-World

1/10/2024
In this exciting episode, we're thrilled to have Jack Burrows as our guest, leading us on a journey through his extraordinary career in the gaming industry. Jack's adventure began back in 2016 as an intern at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where he made significant contributions to the development of "Aven Colony" alongside seasoned developers. Since then, he has passionately honed his skills in testing and QA roles on prestigious titles like Call of Duty, demonstrating not only dedication but also expertise that truly stands out. Join us for a dynamic conversation as Jack shares invaluable insights from his professional journey, providing an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into his experiences as a Level Designer for renowned companies such as Activision, 2K Games, and NetEase. Learn more about Jack Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:00:59:13

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Gaming for Good: Beyond Entertainment

1/3/2024
Get ready for an exhilarating episode as we bring you the incredible journey of Roshelle, a powerhouse in the gaming world! An Air Force veteran turned User Researcher at Blizzard Entertainment, she's on a mission to take World of Warcraft to new heights. Armed with a Bachelors in Psychology and a Masters in UX Design, Roshelle weaves together her academic prowess and diverse career experiences, leaving an indelible mark on the gaming industry.From military service to corporate giants like General Dynamics and Leidos, and even impactful roles in mental health settings, Roshelle's story is a rollercoaster of passion and dedication. Join us as we dive into her dynamic career, exploring the exciting blend of psychology, technology, and gaming. Her unwavering commitment to understanding people shines through in this episode, and her compassion extends not only to her work but also to the vibrant gaming community she serves. Don't miss out on this enthusiastic exploration of Roshelle's journey and how it's shaping the future of gaming experiences! Learn more about Roshelle Sign up for Blizzard Research IGDA Climate SIG Climate Developer Toolkit Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Duration:01:01:06