This story serves as an inspiring example for all independent studios considering their funding options in 2024, reminding us that collective willpower and fearlessness can be as powerful as more seniority and money.

In this episode of Rise and Play, guest host Shelby Moledina returns.  Shelby is a Game Director and Film Director with 30+ titles shipped, and 20+ years of experience at large and small companies (WB Games, DeNA, Double Loop Games, and more).  This week, she speaks with Ayla Derrick, the founder of Cave Bear Games, an all-volunteer studio that went unexpectedly viral earlier this year.

Ayla, a newcomer to the game industry with a background in education, shares how and why she started Cave Bear Games in 2024, which has been a historically apocalyptic year in the games industry.  Ayla discusses how she harnessed CBG's viral success to build the studio, and to spread the wealth far beyond CBG by creating a strong volunteer and junior game dev community.  We cover essential topics such as the importance of trusting your instincts to find your own way to solve problems, networking with genuine passion, and fostering a positive studio culture.   

Ayla and Cave Bear's journey make it clear that there's real power in taking fate into your own hands.

02:19 Starting an All-Volunteer Studio, for Junior Devs

20:25 Growing the Team AND a Dev Community...at the Same Time

33:04 Using a Newcomer's POV to Tackle Business Challenges in Novel Ways

37:36 The Importance of Communication, Genuine Outreach, and Passion

47:22 Like PB&J: ADHD and Game Development

54:18 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

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