

#52 - Would AEG Publish This?
Apr 18, 2025
Join John Zinzer, a 32-year veteran of AEG, and head developer Mark Wooten as they delve into the intricacies of game publishing. They share what AEG seeks in submissions while reflecting on the evolving landscape of game development. Discover how games like 'War Chest' balance luck and skill, and hear insights on themes that captivate players. The duo discusses the importance of originality, community engagement, and their shifting perspectives on cooperative games, providing a fascinating look into the art of game publishing.
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AEG's Ambitious Publishing Goal
- AEG aims to publish games that could potentially sell a million copies to elevate their overall publishing success.
- While they pursue big hits, they embrace games across various durations and types as long as quality is high.
Tiny Towns' Puzzle Satisfaction
- John and Mark describe the satisfying puzzle-solving build-up in Tiny Towns as players progressively fit pieces together.
- They highlight the serotonin hit of successful mid-game building and the tension-release dynamic even when plans fail.
Self-Improvement Drives Replay
- Games that let players measure improvement foster continuous engagement and repeat play.
- Tiny Towns appeals to players who enjoy getting better at solving puzzles regardless of winning.