Post Games What it's actually like to release a game in 2025 (Joel Burgess)
Nov 10, 2025
In this engaging chat, Joel Burgess, co-founder of indie studio Soft Rains and former lead designer at Bethesda, shares insights into launching their debut game, Ambrosia Sky. He discusses the challenges of founding an indie studio and the emotional rollercoaster of game release. Joel reveals the innovative non-gun combat design, the importance of feedback, and the decision to adopt an act-based release model. He also reflects on maintaining a humane workplace culture amidst industry stresses and the rewarding aspects of creating opportunities for other developers.
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From Conversation To Studio
- Joel started Soft Reigns after pandemic-era investor interest and encouragement from a friend in finance.
- He took meetings, learned cap tables, and gradually turned conversations into a formal studio launch in late 2022.
Pitching As Self-Selection
- Joel deliberately inserted