Episode 22: This conversation features a deep and insightful discussion with Frank Lantz, the director of the New York University Game Center and an award-winning game designer. Throughout the interview, Lantz explores the intricate relationship between games, culture, and education, highlighting how games can serve as a potent medium for both artistic expression and intellectual challenge.

Check out Frank's Games and Resources:
“The Beauty of Games” - A book by Frank Lantz
Universal Paperclips - A game by Frank Lantz

https://twitter.com/flantz
https://www.franklantz.net/
https://www.franklantz.net/work
https://www.linkedin.com/in/franklantz/

Resources Mentioned:
Balatro - Mentioned as a current favorite game of Frank Lantz.
Portal - Highlighted as possibly the funniest and one of the greatest games, with contributions from Eric Wolpaw.
Disco Elysium - Cited as an example of excellent narrative in games.
Kentucky Route Zero - Mentioned for its narrative focus.
The Stanley Parable and The Beginner's Guide
GeoGuessr

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(00:00) - Exploring Comedy's Influence in Game Design
(00:31) - Welcome to Hey, Good Game Podcast
(00:54) - Post-Interview Reflections and Takeaways
(02:09) - Deep Dive with Frank Lantz: A Gaming Luminary
(03:36) - The Art and Challenge of Comedy in Games
(05:14) - Navigating the Addictive Nature of Games
(07:40) - Universal Paperclips: Designing for Disengagement
(26:18) - The Role of Narrative and Writing in Games
(31:12) - Games as Social and Cultural Artifacts
(33:53) - Exploring the Social Impact of Gaming
(34:21) - The Art of Taste and Social Connections in Cooking vs. Gaming
(34:39) - The Evolution of Gaming Communities and Cultural Shifts
(36:06) - The Founding and Philosophy of the NYU Game Center
(37:53) - Teaching Game Design as a Creative Discipline
(39:16) - Games as Cultural Forms and Their Deep Connection to Computer Science
(39:49) - The Intricacies of Game Design and Its Historical Significance
(40:51) - Finding Joy and Social Exchange in Sports and Games
(42:30) - Bridging Generational Gaps in Gaming Understanding
(46:47) - The Fascination with Watching Games and eSports
(51:41) - The Intellectual Depth of Bridge and Its Cultural Phenomenon
(57:42) - Envisioning the Future of Games and Their Role in Society
(01:05:28) - The Journey of Games Towards a Richer Cultural Spectrum
(01:06:01) - Closing Thoughts and Where to Find More

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Check out our brainy games:

Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com

Episode #81: Disney Legend Marty Sklar