Win Conditions

Tom and Tony Cannon, the innovative duo behind EVO and creators of groundbreaking GGPO netcode, share their journey from arcade days to establishing the largest fighting game tournament. They discuss pivotal moments like the legendary 'Moment 37' and the challenges of fostering community in esports. The Cannons share their current work on 2XKO at Riot Games, translating League of Legends characters into fighting game mechanics. Their insights illuminate the evolution of competitive gaming and the importance of innovation and community engagement in shaping the future.

In this enlightening conversation, Jaeho Hwang, the game director behind the hit indie game Dave the Diver, shares his journey from Seoul to global acclaim. He discusses how personal experiences and a love for Japanese RPGs inspired the game. Jaeho reveals the importance of balancing user feedback with creative vision and the unique blend of humor and accessibility that makes Dave the Diver so beloved. Aspiring developers will appreciate his insights on starting small and embracing feedback to connect with players.

Forest Willard, co-founder of Innersloth and co-creator of the viral hit Among Us, shares his incredible journey from retro gaming to building a successful indie studio. He discusses how the game's design focuses on simplicity and social interaction, making it a cultural phenomenon. The conversation covers transformative partnerships, handling popularity during the pandemic, and tips for aspiring game developers. Forest emphasizes the need to maintain an indie culture even as the team grows, ensuring creativity and fun remain at the forefront.

Kyle Rowley, co-director of Alan Wake 2, shares his inspiring journey from gaming fan to game developer, highlighting his 20-year career with major titles like RuneScape and Cyberpunk 2077. He discusses the challenges of breaking into the industry and the importance of resilience and teamwork. Kyle dives into the creative process of Alan Wake 2, emphasizing the balance between innovation and proven design principles. His insights on narrative depth and player engagement in survival horror make this a must-listen for aspiring game designers.

In this engaging discussion, Ben Cassell, known as Cohh Carnage, shares his journey from a game developer and DJ to a top Twitch streamer. He reveals the secrets to growing a successful streaming career, emphasizing the importance of the 'streamer triangle'—game selection, knowing your worth, and metrics. Cohh also dives into his game development project, Emberville, discussing how community feedback shapes his creative process. Tune in for valuable insights on building a loyal audience, overcoming challenges, and blending gaming with influencer culture!

Allen Adham, co-founder of Blizzard Entertainment, shares his fascinating journey from bootstrapping the company with just $22,000 to shaping iconic franchises like Warcraft and Overwatch. He discusses the creative process behind game development and the importance of passionate teams. Allen also reflects on risks taken during game launches and his unique stint in hedge fund management. He offers valuable insights for aspiring developers on balancing innovation and community, making this a treasure trove for gamers and creators alike.