Gaming is a Strange Art — Intentionally Blank Ep. 192
Feb 5, 2025
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Brandon Sanderson and Dan Wells dive into the curious world of multiplayer gaming, suggesting adult-only lobbies for a more mature experience. They reflect on how games like Magic: The Gathering are evolving, blending creativity with a unique art form. A hilarious heist of $4,000 in sandwiches brings levity as they connect it to quirky gaming culture. The discussion shifts to the challenges and joys new players face, highlighting game accessibility and community learning. They also critique character design and toxicity in popular multiplayer games, proposing ways to enhance player interactions.
30:47
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Quick takeaways
The podcast highlights the need for moderated adult-only lobbies in multiplayer games to create a safer and more respectful gaming environment.
A charity gaming event demonstrates how gaming can foster community engagement and support philanthropic efforts through collaborative play and fundraising.
Deep dives
Charity Storytelling Initiatives
The speaker shares insights about a new storytelling initiative with Wizards of the Coast, where he wrote a story without compensation but maintained full creative control. He aimed to create a narrative that aligned with his vision, leading to some online controversy when the story was released for free but later removed. This culminated in a special charity edition, with proceeds benefiting a good cause, showing a commitment to philanthropy alongside creative expression. The opportunity to sign a limited quantity of these charity editions showcases a blend of artistic freedom and charitable impact.
Adapting Gaming for Charity
The discussion shifts to a charity gaming event where he played Magic: The Gathering to raise funds, with players donating money for the chance to compete against him. Players who participated received signed cards as a token of appreciation, fostering a sense of community and contribution towards a charitable cause. A memorable incident was highlighted, where he won a game with a difficult strategy, further emphasizing the enjoyable and competitive spirit of the event. This reflects a trend of using gaming as a platform for raising money and engaging fans in charitable efforts.
Community Challenges in Multiplayer Gaming
Concerns are raised about the increasingly toxic environment in multiplayer games, particularly regarding interactions with younger players. The speaker proposes the idea of a subscription service that allows adults to play in an environment moderated to ensure respectful communication and enjoyable gameplay. This concept aims to provide a safe space for adult gamers who may be disenchanted with current multiplayer experiences. Additionally, the discussion touches on the appeal of features like 'little brother mode' which makes games more accessible for those less familiar with gaming mechanics, allowing for a more inclusive gaming community.
Brandon Sanderson and Dan Wells sit down to talk about how they think multiplayer games should have lobbies for just adults, how magic the gathering is heading in a new but unique way, and how gaming is a strange art form that exists in the current day and age.
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