The Indie Game Development Podcast

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this eye-opening episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we take a hard look at the current state of the video game industry. It's no secret that free-to-play games have been utilizing manipulation and behavioral psychology to encourage players to spend money, but what's alarming is how these tactics are seeping into AAA titles. We delve into the mechanics behind free-to-play games and how they target different player personas to maximize profits. From achievers seeking faster progression to socializers interested in cosmetics, game designers have honed their strategies to exploit psychological triggers and turn games into addictive hobbies. But how exactly do they accomplish this? We uncover the intricate tactics employed, from anchoring pricing to scarcity and loss aversion, all designed to break down players' defenses and encourage spending. The shift towards free-to-play models in AAA games raises questions about the future of the industry. Can companies balance profitability with ethical game design? The gaming industry is at a crossroads, and it will take innovative ideas and collaborative efforts to ensure a future where games are enjoyed for their creativity and entertainment value, not just their profit potential.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we tackle a persistent myth in the industry that devlogs are only for developers, not gamers. It's a narrative many of us have bought into, myself included. But what if we've been missing the mark all along? We dive deep into the world of indie marketing, exploring why traditional methods often fall short in a landscape oversaturated with content. Sure, making a good game is essential, but it's just the first step. Social media posts and reaching out to YouTubers and streamers help, but they're not guarantees. What sets devlogs apart is their ability to build trust and a loyal audience over time. They offer a unique opportunity for developers to become influencers in their own right while creating their games. And contrary to popular belief, they're not just for developers. We share stories of indie developers who have defied the odds and found success through devlogs, reaching gamers directly and building excitement around their projects. From seasoned creators to high school students, the power of authentic storytelling shines through. So if you've ever doubted the effectiveness of devlogs or wondered if they're worth the effort, this episode is for you. Join us as we challenge the status quo and explore how this often-overlooked marketing tool could be the key to unlocking your game's full potential. And hey, if you're curious about our own devlogs for Samurado, check us out on Youtube!

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames We tackle one of the most pressing questions every game developer faces: How do you get people to not just notice, but genuinely want to play your game? The answer lies in effective marketing strategies, and the urgency to act becomes clear as we explore the growing landscape of game development. Delving into 8 specific strategies to make your game stand out, In this episode, of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we dive deep into the daunting reality of releasing a financially successful video game in today's market, unveiling 8 essential marketing strategies along the way. As the influx of games on platforms like Steam continues to surge, the challenge of achieving success grows steeper. Through real-world examples, we delve into the heart of what it takes to make your game stand out in a sea of competition. From the allure of viral potential to the art of crafting captivating hooks, we explore the essence of what makes a game truly memorable. We uncover the untapped power of influencer outreach, shedding light on how collaborating with content creators can amplify visibility and drive wishlist conversions. Additionally, we dissect the realm of paid advertising and the significance of participating in industry events like festivals and conferences. Beyond traditional marketing avenues, we also delve into the importance of cultivating a strong online presence and the potential of personal branding as a means to forge deeper connections with your audience. Throughout our exploration, one truth becomes clear: success in indie game development requires more than just a great game—it demands a strategic and sustained effort to navigate the intricacies of marketing in a competitive landscape.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we sit down with Zak Knight, an audio expert and professional musician and we dig DEEP into the world of video game music and sound design! With a musical background spanning over 25 years, Zak's expertise isn't just about notes and chords; it's about capturing the essence of creativity and emotion in every piece of music he works on. As a professional musician, producer, and educator, Zak brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, drawing from 15 years of hands-on experience in recording studios, writing, producing, and engineering music. But what really sets Zak apart is his recent move into indie game development, spearheading his upcoming indie game project, Bird Knight. Join us as Zak shares his insights on how music can shape the very core of your game, whether you're a solo developer or part of a team. From DIY composition tips to navigating the landscape of hiring composers, Zak answers all of our game dev music questions and gives a ton of practical advice and resources to help you get started with your own indie game audio journey. Check out Zak's Website & Social: https://www.instagram.com/birdknightgame https://earthtidestudios.com.au/ https://www.youtube.com/@EarthtideStudios Zak's Resource Recommendations can be found in the description of the Youtube interview: https://youtu.be/7DcJj4f7HPo

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we dive deep into the shifting terrain of the gaming industry. With major layoffs hitting AAA studios and a relentless focus on monetization over fun, indie developers face a daunting challenge: how to stand out amidst the chaos. The introduction of free game development tools has empowered small teams and individuals to create high-quality games, revolutionizing the industry. Yet, as technology advances, so do the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI integration and monetization strategies. We explore the moral implications of these tools and how indie developers can leverage them without compromising their integrity. Moreover, there's a significant opportunity for indies to fill the void left by AAA studios, catering to gamers craving unique experiences beyond the repetitive churn of mainstream titles. Join us as we navigate the tumultuous seas of game development, offering insights and strategies for indie devs to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. By honing their skills and embracing creativity, indie developers can keep the spirit of fun alive in gaming.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Join us on The Indie Game Development Podcast as we unravel the truth behind the challenges indie developers face. Discover why expectations can lead to stress, anxiety, and even burnout, and learn practical strategies for overcoming these hurdles. From unrealistic deadlines to trying to do it all alone, we'll explore the common pitfalls and offer actionable solutions. Take back control of your gamedev journey by focusing on what you can change, embracing delegation, and welcoming feedback for growth. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Let's navigate the world of indie game development together.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast we're sharing our ultimate guide for launching your game dev journey in 2024! Here's your quick roadmap: Engine Selection Pricing Programming Paths Asset Acquisition Hands-on Learning Game Jams Month-long Projects Remember, it's all about taking small steps and enjoying the journey. Let's kickstart your game dev adventure!

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Hey there, it's Brandon and Nikki from Sasquatch B Studios, and we're taking over The Indie Game Development Podcast today to give you a peek behind the curtain of our crazy journey from corporate finance to indie game dev. A few years back, we said goodbye to a stable income and sold our house to chase our dream of making games with no guarantee it would work out. Many thought we were crazy, we may even have questioned it ourselves, but here we are over two years later still at it. And now, as requested by our Patrons we've decided to give an inside look, answering your questions, to celebrate our Youtube channel surpassing 20K subscribers. No topic is off limits in this one, we'll be answering questions about financial struggles, our personal lives, and of course game dev.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Welcome to The Indie Game Development podcast! Today, we're exploring the genius level design of Super Meat Boy. Ed McMillan, known for his quirky games like The Binding of Isaac, created a masterpiece with Super Meat Boy. Unlike Mario, this platformer keeps it simple with basic moves: walk, run, jump, and wall jump. But don't be fooled – it gets insanely challenging. Ed's level design is brilliant, introducing new mechanics and hazards at the perfect pace. From dodging saws to navigating disappearing blocks, each level builds upon the last, testing your skills in new ways. Super Meat Boy teaches players without holding their hand, making it a masterclass in game design. It proves that you don't need complex mechanics to make a great game – just solid gameplay and clever level design.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we explore the metaphorical landscape of game development, likening its challenges to treacherous mountains. Join us as we navigate the highs and lows of the journey, embracing the struggle, celebrating the triumphs, and finding magic in the process. Whether you're scaling familiar peaks or charting new territory, this episode offers insights and encouragement for every developer.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Join us on The Indie Game Development Podcast as we unravel the unexpected allure of Cookie Clicker. Our host Brandon shares a personal journey from skepticism to addiction, exploring the game's fundamental appeal. Through candid analysis, we dissect five key factors behind Cookie Clicker's success: simplicity, accessibility, addictive mechanics, strategic rewards, and accelerated growth. Drawing parallels to other games, we reveal common threads in their reward systems that keeps players hooked. Whether you're an indie developer seeking insights or a curious gamer, this episode offers valuable lessons in game design. Tune in to decode the addictive essence of Cookie Clicker and its implications for the future of indie gaming.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we tackle the pervasive issue of burnout in game development. From indie darlings to AAA giants, burnout knows no bounds. We dissect three common burnout triggers, drawing from the experiences of renowned YouTube developers like ThinMatrix, Thomas Brush, and Dani. From overworking to the suffocating pressure of expectations and the toxic habit of comparison, we uncover the pitfalls threatening developers' mental health and well being. Based on personal experience and what we've learned from those that have successfully navigated the game dev space before us, we share practical strategies that we've learned for resilience against burnout. Learn to pace yourself, manage expectations, and resist the allure of comparison. Successfully avoiding burnout is about finding balance and nurturing your creativity sustainably.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we delve into the inspiring journey of game developer Fairlii, creator of the cute and cozy pixel art game, Gelli Fields. With a dedicated following of over 30,000 subscribers on YouTube, Fairlii has captured the hearts of gamers with his unique blend of creativity and goofy authenticity. In this candid conversation, Fairlii opens up about his personal struggles with major anxiety and mental health challenges, as well as shares his experience navigating the treacherous waters of burnout in game dev. Despite facing these difficult challenges, Fairlii remains committed to crafting Gelli Fields into a finished project that will enchant players with its unique charm. Discover the untold stories behind the pixels as we explore the motivations, triumphs, and setbacks that have shaped Fairlii's journey as a game developer. Join us as we discuss resilience, creativity, and the power of building a community in this touching portrayal of one developer's quest to turn his dreams into reality. Don't miss out on this insightful and uplifting conversation that is sure to leave you inspired and motivated for your own game dev journey. Check out Fairlii's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Fairlii

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, host Brandon of Sasquatch B Studios discusses the challenges of developing their game "Samurado." Initially intended as a three-month project, the development process has been fraught with setbacks and a lack of meaningful progress. Brandon reflects on his tendency to veer off course midway through projects and discovers that the root cause lies within himself. Through introspection, Brandon realizes that caring deeply about the end result is both a blessing and a curse. Drawing parallels between game jams and traditional development cycles, he unveils a transformative strategy: adopting the mindset of working for an external manager. By holding himself accountable to this imaginary boss, Brandon finds renewed focus and discipline, mitigating the pressures of personal expectation. In this episode, listeners gain practical insights into battling procrastination and cultivating mental discipline in indie game development. Join the conversation to discover how a subtle shift in perspective can empower developers to navigate the challenges of bringing their visions to life.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we sit down with the talented game developer and YouTube sensation, DevDuck. With more than 160,000 subscribers on his channel, DevDuck has captivated audiences with his devlogs while creating his cozy 2D RPG titled "Dauphin." Join us as we get a sneak peek into DevDuck's inspiring journey, navigating the intricate balance between his passion for game development and the demands of a full-time job. For 3.5 years, he's been meticulously crafting the world of Dauphin, pouring his creativity into every pixel and line of code. Learn how he manages all of his responsibilities, stays motivated, and avoids burnout. From coding challenges to design decisions, DevDuck opens up about the highs and lows of his creative process. But that's not all – find out how DevDuck maintains a fun and healthy lifestyle amidst the chaos of a full time job, game development and content creation.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Join host Brandon on The Indie Game Development podcast as he sits down with Matt of Watt Designs, the mastermind behind the highly anticipated "Isle Goblin" – one of Steam's most wishlisted indie games. In this episode, Matt shares his remarkable journey, starting as a pixel art hobbyist and evolving into a prominent figure in indie game development. Discover the secrets behind Watt's recent success with a 30-day game release, "This is Hell," that garnered positive reviews on Steam. With nearly 50,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel, Watt discusses his insights into content creation and offers valuable tips for aspiring developers navigating the indie gaming landscape. Don't miss this inspiring episode, where Brandon and Matt delve into the highs and lows of indie game development, providing listeners with a glimpse into the captivating world of creating Isle Goblin.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, the host Brandon, reflects on key insights he's learned from his experience making games. He explores the often underestimated aspects of planning and meetings in game development, debunking the myth that they're only crucial for larger teams. The episode emphasizes the transformative impact of strategic planning, daily check-ins, and clear communication, sharing personal experiences and practical tips. Learn how these professional techniques have elevated productivity and shifted the game development approach from amateur to pro. Don't miss this valuable guide for indie developers navigating the journey to game completion.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, our host Brandon, reflects on the unexpected twists in his 90-day challenge to publish a game on Steam. What started as a quick project became a 7-and-a-half-month emotional rollercoaster. Brandon openly discusses feelings of embarrassment and imposter syndrome, revealing the human side of game development. Despite meticulous planning, the episode unveils underestimated timeframes and project management challenges, dispelling the notion of scope creep. This episode serves as a raw and relatable resource for indie developers, offering insights into the highs and lows of the creative process.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames Starting a game project is almost always fun, but as it evolves, challenges and doubts can creep in that start to quickly turn that fun game project into a grind. If you're looking to not only finish your game, but enjoy the process too, check out these practical tips on shifting your mindset to conquer these common game dev struggles. Discover how to turn "I HAVE tos" into "I GET tos" and transform not only your perspective but your game dev journey.

Join our Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/aHjTSBz3jH Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchbgames In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we dive deep into the one force that's constantly working against your game development goals – YOU! ...or more specifically, your resistance. From the subtle procrastination to the obvious whiny inner voice, resistance takes many forms. Join us as we explore how perfectionism, marketing, and even starting game development can be manifestations of this relentless foe. Discover why resistance is a universal struggle and how our brains are wired to resist change. The good news? While resistance never truly disappears, understanding and recognizing it is the key to overcoming it. Learn how to silence that inner resistance and make real progress towards your game development dreams. Don't let resistance be the reason your game remains unfinished.