Welcome to another episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're honored to have Jaye "Letta J" Watts, Founder & CEO of Coexist Gaming, here to discuss the captivating topic of "What Does the Future of the Gaming Industry Look Like?" In our conversation, Letta J will share insights into the business of gaming, emphasizing the importance of representation and creative development. We'll delve into what true inclusion looks like in games and explore how community engagement within the industry translates into meaningful representation. Letta J's unique journey into the game industry, converting her Brooklyn duplex into a video game bar and lounge, adds a fascinating perspective to our discussion. Together, we'll unravel the layers of the gaming industry's future and the evolving landscape of inclusivity. Stay connected with Jaye "Letta J" Watts on various social platforms: Twitter: x.com/lettajmusic LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jayewatts Facebook (Letta J): facebook.com/lettajmusic Facebook (Coexist Gaming): facebook.com/coexistgaming Instagram (Letta J): instagram.com/lettajmusic Instagram (Coexist Gaming): instagram.com/coexistgaming #GamingIndustryFuture #CoexistGaming #InclusionInGames #IndieGameBusiness #LettaJWatts #CreativeDevelopment #RepresentationInGaming

Welcome to another insightful episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're joined by Mike Sanders, CEO and Studio Manager, of Puny Human, to discuss his experiences starting and running an indie game studio for 15 years. Throughout our conversation, Mike is going to also share his experiences working as a Tech Producer with Carbonated, running the GameDev Executive Support Discord group, and initiating a new game conference. He is also going to touch on providing valuable insights on how individuals can best enter the gaming industry. We'll explore topics ranging from networking and working with investors to game development, engine considerations, and the dynamics of running a game studio with medium to large teams. Mike will also discuss porting games, scope control, and other things as time allows. Stay connected with Mike Sanders on Twitter and LinkedIn: Twitter: https://twitter.com/urinalcake LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeysanders/ #GamingIndustryInsights #GameDevelopment #PunyHuman #IndieGameBusiness #CareerAdvice #MikeSanders #GameDevExecutiveSupport #NetworkingInGaming #IndieGameBusiness

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're thrilled to have Sam Goddard, Founder of BLACKBOX Studios, Game Developer, and Content Creator, here to share insights on "Indie Game Content Creation and Social Media Growth." Throughout our discussion, Sam will provide valuable insights into strategies for social media growth, effective content creation in the indie game space, and his experiences as both a game developer and content creator. We'll explore the intersection of fan games, discussing the dynamics involved, and take a closer look at Sam's own project, Mecha Attack. Sam is open to diverse discussions, so we'll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics related to indie game development, content creation, and any other interesting points that come up. Connect with Sam Goddard on LinkedIn to stay updated with his insights and projects: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-goddard-684777138/ Join us for an engaging conversation about the world of indie game development, content creation, and the exciting journey of creating Mecha Attack! #IndieGameDevelopment #ContentCreation #SocialMediaGrowth #MechaAttack #IndieGameBiz #IndieGameBusiness

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Chris White, SVP of Business Development and Content Acquisitions at Green Man Gaming, sharing insights on "How to Make the Perfect Pitch Deck for Your Indie Game." Throughout our discussion, Chris will provide valuable tips on crafting an effective pitch deck. We'll explore questions like the ideal length for a pitch deck, how to address a lack of experience, and the importance of conveying financial information even if numbers seem daunting. Chris will share advice on following up with a publisher after sending a pitch, handling changes to your project, and transitioning from unsuccessful pitching to self-publishing. We'll also discuss common issues seen in pitch decks and strategies to avoid them. Stay connected with Chris White on social media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomerosSoldier LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswhite87/ #PitchDeck #IndieGamePitching #GreenManGaming #BusinessDevelopment #IndieGameBusiness #EffectivePitching #ChrisWhite

Welcome to the first episode of IndieGameBusiness in 2024! Today, we have special guests Otis Rachtman from Mind Your Music, and we're diving into the captivating topic of "Make Your Video Game Soundtrack AWESOME!" In this episode, we'll explore the art of crafting outstanding video game soundtracks. Otis, having grown up with video games, will provide a unique perspective on how gaming has influenced his musical sensibilities. We'll discuss the interactive aspect of games and how it affects the approach to music. Otis will reflect on movies and games that have shaped their passion for soundtracks and the challenges unique to game soundtracks compared to movies and TV. The conversation will also touch on the concept of "streamer modes" in games, which alter or replace licensed music, and explore the hopes for the future of game soundtracks. Connect with Karyn Rachtman and Otis Rachtman on LinkedIn and explore Mind Your Music on social media: Karyn Rachtman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karynrachtman/ Otis Rachtman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/otis-rachtman/ Mind Your Music: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindyourmusicllc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mind.your.music/?hl=en #IndieGameSoundtrack #GameMusic #MindYourMusic #KarynRachtman #OtisRachtman #IndieGameBusiness #GameDevelopment #MusicSupervision

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! In this episode, we have a special guest, Michael Liebe, Outreach Games Europe Lead at Kickstarter, who will enlighten us on "Using Kickstarter for Your Indie Game." During our conversation, we will explore the role of Kickstarter in the funding mix for indie games and consider which other sources of funding it complements. We'll delve into the relationship between Kickstarter and publishers, examining their preferences and attitudes toward crowdfunding. Michael will share insights on why Kickstarter should be viewed as a proof of concept, encompassing aspects such as team dynamics, productivity, stamina, and bravery, beyond audience testing and marketing. We'll also discuss the current happenings in the games industry, including insights from gamesweekberlin and the strategies involved in pivoting a business in a dynamic environment. Lastly, we'll consider the unique dynamics of Kickstarter and the gaming world in Europe. To stay updated with Michael Liebe, you can connect with him on social media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/liebe_micha LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelliebe/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/liebe_micha #Kickstarter #IndieGameFunding #Crowdfunding #ProofOfConcept #Gamesweekberlin #IndieGameBusiness #MichaelLiebe #GameIndustryInsights #EuropeGaming

Welcome to IndieGameBusiness! In this episode, we are delighted to have Gombos József and Szőke György from Balcony Softworks, discussing the intriguing topic of "Should You Use a Publisher for Your Indie Game?" During our conversation, Gombos and Szőke will shed light on a range of important subjects in the indie game development landscape. We will delve into topics like early access and the challenges of working with a custom game engine. We'll explore how to navigate a rough game launch, the vital role of playtesting, and the art of handling player feedback effectively. We will also discuss the merits of creating your own game engine, the considerations when working with a publisher, and the significance of addressing issues like crunch and burnout in the industry. To stay updated with Balcony Softworks, you can connect with them on Twitter: Twitter: https://twitter.com/BalconyTeam Join us for this insightful discussion on indie game development, publishing, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. #igb #indiegamebusiness #gamedev #indiegamedev #gamepublisher

Welcome to another episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we're thrilled to have Justin Berenbaum, VP Strategy & GM at Xsolla Funding Club, sharing insights on "How to Get Funding, Investments, and Publishing Your Indie Game." In this episode, Justin will provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of funding for indie games. We'll explore the nuances between equity and project funding, dive into platform planning and effective pitching strategies, and discuss best practices for building and maintaining relationships in the gaming industry. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of game funding, investing, and publishing, along with a glance at emerging technologies shaping the future of the gaming landscape. Connect with Justin Berenbaum on social media to stay updated: Twitter: https://twitter.com/scslug LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jberenbaum/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jberenbaum #IndieGameBusiness #GameFunding #IndieGameInvestments #GamePublishing #XsollaFundingClub #GamingIndustryInsights #EmergingTech #JustinBerenbaum

During this session, we will take a deep dive into the Chinese gaming market, uncovering insights that are not commonly shared in western media. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the market and your target audience, you will be better equipped to strategize your game publishing plan. So, join me on this exciting journey as we explore the fascinating world of the Chinese gaming industry. Sit back, relax, and let's embark on this adventure together. #ChineseGamingMarket #GamePublishingStrategy #MarketInsights #ChineseGamingIndustry #GamingIndustryExploration

Since Lode Runner in 1983, user generated content has been a staple of game development. Opening up further expansion of games to their communities has been a tried and true method of extending a game's lifespan for years or even decades. The advent of social media has introduced new forms of UGC as well, tying in-game tools with social elements via pictures, video, and streaming. In this talk, we'll discuss various business benefits of implementing UGC tools, platforms, and support into your game and its marketing strategies, and directions you can take to develop a healthy creator community. #UserGeneratedContent #GameDevelopment #CommunityEngagement #UGCInGaming #CreatorCommunity