Naavik Gaming Podcast Finding the Fun in VR with AstroBeam and Schell Games
Mar 28, 2025
Devin Reimer, founder and CEO of AstroBeam, and Ed Saxton, Chief Product Officer at Schell Games, dive into the vibrant world of VR gaming. They share insights on the evolution of iconic games like Job Simulator and Among Us VR, discussing how humor and creativity shape immersive experiences. The duo debates the future of generative AI in gaming, voice interactions, and the intriguing notion of smell-o-vision. With tales of smart NPCs and sensory immersion, they explore the uncharted territories of virtual relationships and player engagement.
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Episode notes
Rapid Job Simulator Demo Creation
- Devin and his team quickly created a VR demo for Valve with very limited resources and time.
- They worked intensely in Devin’s basement with just one headset during his wife’s pregnancy.
Humor Softens VR High Stakes
- Ed joined Schell Games mid-development of I Expect You Die, a game built around humor and player failure.
- The game creates serious, high-stakes puzzles softened with humor, encouraging players and making failure fun.
Embrace Chaos in VR Design
- Giving users more control reduces developer control and increases unpredictability.
- Designing games that embrace user-driven chaos leads to better VR experiences.