

Indie Game Lunch Hour
Indie Game Academy
Real stories from real game developers about breaking into the video game industry. Welcome to the Indie Game Lunch Hour, hosted by the Indie Game Academy! Listen in or join live.Our podcast is hosted and recorded live on our Discord. Each Wednesday at 12pm EST we interview experts in the game industry and give community members like YOU a chance to ask them questions. We cover breaking into the indie game industry, publishing games, game design and so much more.Join the Discord
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 11, 2024 • 59min
The Storytelling Toolkit: Better Narrative and Quest Design
Join us as we explore the art of crafting compelling narratives and engaging quest designs with Quinn Elmer, a seasoned narrative designer and writer with over a decade of experience across indie and AAA games. Drawing from his work at Lost Boys Interactive and collaborations with Gearbox Entertainment, Quinn shares valuable insights and techniques to elevate storytelling in games. Whether you're a developer, storyteller, or simply love great narratives, this episode offers a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice.Learn more about QuinnLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Dec 4, 2024 • 55min
Deviating to Success: Building a Studio, Breaking Norms, and Shipping Our First Game
In this episode, we talk with Kyra Reive, CEO of Deviant Games, whose journey is as compelling as the games her studio creates. From serving in the military in Alaska to running family businesses, her path took a bold turn during the pandemic, leading to the launch of a game studio with limitless potential. We explore Kyra’s passion for storytelling, the lessons she’s learned, and the bold, creative approach that’s setting Deviant Games apart. It’s a story of resilience, creativity, and daring to follow an unconventional dream.Learn more about KyraLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Nov 27, 2024 • 56min
Creating Positivity in Indie Games: Staying True to Vision Amidst Changing Expectations
In this episode, we’re joined by an extraordinary voice in games media—an experienced journalist, podcaster, and editor-in-chief of Fearzine Magazine. With over five years of covering the gaming industry, he’s interviewed everyone from indie devs to iconic talents like Nolan North. He shares his insights on fostering positivity in the indie game space while staying true to creative visions, even as industry expectations evolve. Get ready for a conversation packed with passion, expertise, and inspiration for creators everywhere.Learn more about DanLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Nov 20, 2024 • 57min
Indie Marketing Throughout The Years, Where It Is (Not) Going
David Elahee, a veteran game developer and co-founder of Headbang Club studio, shares his extensive experience in the world of indie games. He discusses how indie marketing has evolved over the years and the current trends shaping its future. David delves into guerrilla marketing strategies and community engagement, emphasizing their importance for indie projects. He also highlights the challenges of optimizing games for various platforms and the balance between in-house marketing and outsourcing expertise, offering valuable insights for aspiring developers.

Nov 13, 2024 • 51min
The Emerging Game Industry in Brazil
This episode features Chance Glasco, a trailblazer in game development and co-founder of Infinity Ward, the studio behind the legendary Call of Duty franchise. Now based in Rio de Janeiro, Chance is innovating as CEO of Martial Arts Tycoon: Brazil, merging his expertise in game design with his passion for Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. We dive into his impressive journey, his impactful work with the Atlantic Council on climate resilience, and his unique insights into Brazil’s rapidly growing game industry.Learn more about ChanceLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Nov 6, 2024 • 53min
How Cinematic Techniques Can Be Applied To Games
Join us as we sit down with Jonathan Duek, an acclaimed Swedish filmmaker who brings cinematic magic to life in documentaries and TV shows for top networks like Amazon Prime, SVT, and TV4. With numerous accolades under his belt, Jonathan’s expertise in storytelling has captivated audiences worldwide. In this episode, he shares insights from his latest project, Spelkollektivet: To Build a Castle, a documentary exploring the indie game development world, and reveals how cinematic techniques can be applied to game design for unforgettable player experiences.Learn more about JonathanLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Oct 30, 2024 • 56min
Should Games be Simpler and Sillier?
Prepare for a deep-dive with Patrick Moran, co-founder of Look North World and a powerhouse in game design innovation! With a career spanning roles at industry giants like Kongregate, Disney, and EA, Patrick has helped create experiences that have captivated millions and generated billions in revenue. We'll explore his fresh perspectives on game design, uncovering how his work with creator-driven platforms like Fortnite UEFN and Curseforge could redefine what makes games so engaging today.Learn more about PatrickLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Oct 23, 2024 • 50min
Remote Play: Managing Creativity and Collaboration from Home
In this episode, we’re joined by Jayne, a powerhouse in marketing with 13 years of expertise spanning social media, influencer management, and content creation. From leading game-changing campaigns for giants like Bandai Namco and Make-A-Wish UK to mastering remote collaboration, she shares her secrets on thriving in the gaming industry while working from anywhere. Plus, get an exclusive glimpse into her exciting next career move!Learn more about JayneLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Oct 16, 2024 • 54min
What It's Like To Run An Indie Game Showcase Event
In this episode, we sit down with Brandon, Director of the Indie Game Showcase at TooManyGames, one of Pennsylvania’s largest indie gaming events. Since taking over in 2022, Brandon has expanded the showcase to feature 40 arcade, tabletop, and video games across 4,000 square feet. We dive into his journey growing the showcase and his passion for supporting indie developers year-round with valuable resources and connections.Learn more about BrandonLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Oct 9, 2024 • 1h 1min
Chasing The Magic On Your Game Development Team
In this special community episode, we connect with our Discord community to dive into what really ignites the magic on a game development team! From staying energized and pushing through obstacles to creating an environment that sparks collaboration and creativity, we cover it all. Whether you're facing challenges or chasing those epic moments of inspiration, this conversation is full of ideas to help your team thrive and turn your game vision into reality!Learn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.