Think Like A Game Designer

Ethan Mollick, an associate professor at Wharton's School specializing in innovation and entrepreneurship, dives into the evolving landscape of AI in game design. He shares insights from his time at MIT's Media Lab and discusses ethical challenges in integrating AI creatively. The conversation highlights how AI can enhance traditional artistry while maintaining human oversight. Mollick also reflects on the resurgence of tabletop games as a tactile experience and the importance of community in the gaming industry. Expect practical advice for creatives to navigate this exciting frontier!

In this episode of "Think Like a Game Designer," I take a different approach by presenting a solo discussion without any guests. Here, I focus on a concept I introduced in a previous episode with Stephan Brissaud: the CORE Attributes. These attributes became very popular among listeners, so much so, that I thought it worth expanding upon in a new episode.I'll be elaborating on these core attributes, which I believe are essential for success: Curiosity, Obsession, Resilience, and Empathy. My goal is to provide a deeper understanding of these attributes in your life, offering insights and practical advice.CORE Attribute References:Summary of CORE Attributes:* Curiosity: The spark that drives learning and exploration. Stay curious and keep exploring.* Obsession: The focus and dedication needed to dive deep into a subject. Find something you're passionate about and dive in, blocking out all distractions.* Resilience: The ability to overcome challenges and use setbacks to fuel growth. Learn from your failures and keep pushing forward.* Empathy: This point is about understanding others and adding value to people’s lives. Our creative work has to serve others to be truly meaningful and we need to enroll others into our projects by understanding and speaking to their needs.These attributes have been crucial in both my personal and professional life. In this episode, I share personal anecdotes and practical exercises to help you cultivate these traits.I’d love to hear your feedback and engage with you through my Substack and Twitter. I'm incredibly grateful for this community and the opportunity to share these insights with you.Game Links:* Ascension Legends* You Gotta Be Kitten Me* SolForge Fusion This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit justingarydesign.substack.com/subscribe

Jonathan Tweet, a pioneering RPG designer, shares insights on his journey in the gaming industry, including Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition. He discusses AI art, VR, and blockchain in game design, challenges in game development, and creating a children's book on evolution. Jonathan reflects on social media presence, upcoming RPG projects, and the influence of the open gaming license.

Award-winning tabletop game designer Geoff Engelstein discusses his journey in game design, psychology's influence on gameplay, and evolving design tools. Topics include passion and perseverance in game design, empowering the next generation of designers, bridging theory and practicality in game design, and creating specific player experiences.

Veteran strategist Stephan Brissaud shares insights on game design, marketing, and retail strategies. He discusses building strong gaming communities, core traits for success, networking in the industry, and embracing curiosity and passion in game development.

Eric Price, president of Japanime Games and GAMMA, discusses uniting VTubers and Players through Oshi Push, a trading card game. Topics include sourcing games from Japan, GAMA's role, evolution of collectibles in Japan, and creating a Vtuber-based TCG. He also talks about the launch of Oshi Push, plans for a digital edition, and future game sets.

Neeraj Kashyap, a blockchain gaming pioneer, discusses the challenges and potential of Web3 gaming. Topics include player ownership, onboarding, play-to-earn, vampire attacks, economies, NFTs, and user engagement for profit. The conversation highlights the fusion of blockchain and gaming, financialization of in-game assets, decentralized game logic, and navigating security concerns in the Web3 gaming landscape.

Ben Robbins, RPG creator, talks about Microscope RPG, fostering inclusivity in game design, constraints for creative collaboration, transitioning from passion to profession in game design, crafting fictional worlds for creative freedom, subtle cues in game design for player experiences, and structuring game demos effectively for engaging gameplay.

Jason Morningstar, award-winning RPG designer, discusses emotional risks in game design, creating unique experiences with Fiasco, balancing financial considerations, designing playful learning experiences, GM-less role-playing with Fiasco, and using filters in game design.

Emmy Award-winning producer Jane Chung Hoffacker discusses IP creation, writer's room dynamics, indie game design, and the evolution of game genres. She shares insights on building animation studios, navigating diversity in entertainment, and embracing change in starting a board game company. The episode is filled with reflections on project launches, feedback, and Emmy Awards experiences, highlighting the power of cohesive world-building and passionate storytelling in game creation.