The Game Design Round Table
BtC - Naming Games with Peter Hayward
Feb 25, 2025
Peter Hayward, an Australian game designer now in Los Angeles, shares his insights on the crucial art of naming games. He discusses how a strong title can influence the perception of a game from the start, affecting both pitching and publishing. The conversation covers the role of thematic elements, like those in his game Fiction, and the importance of collaboration in crafting names that resonate. Peter also navigates the challenges of trademark issues and the significance of uniqueness in a saturated market, revealing the intricacies of successful game design.
35:34
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- A game's name significantly influences its initial perception by publishers, making it a crucial element in the design and pitching process.
- Designers must balance creativity with market appeal, tailoring game names based on whether targeting mass market or hobby publishers for better chances of success.
Deep dives
The Impact of Game Names
The significance of a game's name is increasingly recognized in the design process, with names often influencing first impressions during pitches. Designers have noted that a catchy or evocative name can capture a publisher's attention and convey essential product attributes. Naming a game isn't just a formality; it's a strategic decision that can affect whether a game gets signed. A well-chosen name brings the game closer to a publishable state early in the pitching process.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
