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In this episode of the Indie Game Development podcast, I open up about a challenging seven-month period where I completely stopped making devlogs for my game, Samurado.

Frustrated by their lack of traction and the effort they required, I grew bitter and disillusioned, ultimately giving up on them entirely.

This decision was fueled by a misguided attempt to mimic the success of YouTubers like Dani, leading me down a path of self-doubt and exhaustion.

However, a pivotal moment came when I was reminded of the authenticity and passion that initially drew me to game development.

I realized that success on YouTube and in game development isn't about emulating others or chasing metrics; it's about staying true to yourself and sharing your unique journey.

My hope in sharing my story is that some of these hard lessons I have learned may help even one person to avoid making the same mistakes and keep the passion and joy for game dev alive.

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In this eye-opening episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we take a hard look at the current state of the video game industry. It's no secret that free-to-play games have been utilizing manipulation and behavioral psychology to encourage players to spend money, but what's alarming is how these tactics are seeping into AAA titles.

We delve into the mechanics behind free-to-play games and how they target different player personas to maximize profits. From achievers seeking faster progression to socializers interested in cosmetics, game designers have honed their strategies to exploit psychological triggers and turn games into addictive hobbies.

But how exactly do they accomplish this? We uncover the intricate tactics employed, from anchoring pricing to scarcity and loss aversion, all designed to break down players' defenses and encourage spending.

The shift towards free-to-play models in AAA games raises questions about the future of the industry. Can companies balance profitability with ethical game design? 

The gaming industry is at a crossroads, and it will take innovative ideas and collaborative efforts to ensure a future where games are enjoyed for their creativity and entertainment value, not just their profit potential.

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In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we tackle a persistent myth in the industry that devlogs are only for developers, not gamers. It's a narrative many of us have bought into, myself included. But what if we've been missing the mark all along?

We dive deep into the world of indie marketing, exploring why traditional methods often fall short in a landscape oversaturated with content. Sure, making a good game is essential, but it's just the first step. Social media posts and reaching out to YouTubers and streamers help, but they're not guarantees.

What sets devlogs apart is their ability to build trust and a loyal audience over time. They offer a unique opportunity for developers to become influencers in their own right while creating their games. And contrary to popular belief, they're not just for developers.

We share stories of indie developers who have defied the odds and found success through devlogs, reaching gamers directly and building excitement around their projects. From seasoned creators to high school students, the power of authentic storytelling shines through.

So if you've ever doubted the effectiveness of devlogs or wondered if they're worth the effort, this episode is for you.

Join us as we challenge the status quo and explore how this often-overlooked marketing tool could be the key to unlocking your game's full potential.

And hey, if you're curious about our own devlogs for Samurado, check us out on Youtube!

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We tackle one of the most pressing questions every game developer faces: How do you get people to not just notice, but genuinely want to play your game? The answer lies in effective marketing strategies, and the urgency to act becomes clear as we explore the growing landscape of game development.

Delving into 8 specific strategies to make your game stand out,

In this episode, of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we dive deep into the daunting reality of releasing a financially successful video game in today's market, unveiling 8 essential marketing strategies along the way. As the influx of games on platforms like Steam continues to surge, the challenge of achieving success grows steeper.

Through real-world examples, we delve into the heart of what it takes to make your game stand out in a sea of competition. From the allure of viral potential to the art of crafting captivating hooks, we explore the essence of what makes a game truly memorable.

We uncover the untapped power of influencer outreach, shedding light on how collaborating with content creators can amplify visibility and drive wishlist conversions. Additionally, we dissect the realm of paid advertising and the significance of participating in industry events like festivals and conferences.

Beyond traditional marketing avenues, we also delve into the importance of cultivating a strong online presence and the potential of personal branding as a means to forge deeper connections with your audience.

Throughout our exploration, one truth becomes clear: success in indie game development requires more than just a great game—it demands a strategic and sustained effort to navigate the intricacies of marketing in a competitive landscape.

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In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we sit down with Zak Knight, an audio expert and professional musician and we dig DEEP into the world of video game music and sound design!

With a musical background spanning over 25 years, Zak's expertise isn't just about notes and chords; it's about capturing the essence of creativity and emotion in every piece of music he works on.

As a professional musician, producer, and educator, Zak brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, drawing from 15 years of hands-on experience in recording studios, writing, producing, and engineering music.

But what really sets Zak apart is his recent move into indie game development, spearheading his upcoming indie game project, Bird Knight.

Join us as Zak shares his insights on how music can shape the very core of your game, whether you're a solo developer or part of a team. From DIY composition tips to navigating the landscape of hiring composers, Zak answers all of our game dev music questions and gives a ton of practical advice and resources to help you get started with your own indie game audio journey.

Check out Zak's Website & Social: https://www.instagram.com/birdknightgame https://earthtidestudios.com.au/ https://www.youtube.com/@EarthtideStudios

Zak's Resource Recommendations can be found in the description of the Youtube interview: https://youtu.be/7DcJj4f7HPo

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In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast, we dive deep into the shifting terrain of the gaming industry. With major layoffs hitting AAA studios and a relentless focus on monetization over fun, indie developers face a daunting challenge: how to stand out amidst the chaos.

The introduction of free game development tools has empowered small teams and individuals to create high-quality games, revolutionizing the industry.

Yet, as technology advances, so do the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI integration and monetization strategies. We explore the moral implications of these tools and how indie developers can leverage them without compromising their integrity.

Moreover, there's a significant opportunity for indies to fill the void left by AAA studios, catering to gamers craving unique experiences beyond the repetitive churn of mainstream titles. 

Join us as we navigate the tumultuous seas of game development, offering insights and strategies for indie devs to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. By honing their skills and embracing creativity, indie developers can keep the spirit of fun alive in gaming.

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Join us on The Indie Game Development Podcast as we unravel the truth behind the challenges indie developers face. Discover why expectations can lead to stress, anxiety, and even burnout, and learn practical strategies for overcoming these hurdles.

From unrealistic deadlines to trying to do it all alone, we'll explore the common pitfalls and offer actionable solutions. Take back control of your gamedev journey by focusing on what you can change, embracing delegation, and welcoming feedback for growth.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Let's navigate the world of indie game development together.

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In this episode of The Indie Game Development podcast we're sharing our ultimate guide for launching your game dev journey in 2024!

Here's your quick roadmap:

1. Engine Selection

2. Pricing 

3. Programming Paths

4. Asset Acquisition

5. Hands-on Learning

6. Game Jams

7. Month-long Projects

Remember, it's all about taking small steps and enjoying the journey. Let's kickstart your game dev adventure!

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Hey there, it's Brandon and Nikki from Sasquatch B Studios, and we're taking over The Indie Game Development Podcast today to give you a peek behind the curtain of our crazy journey from corporate finance to indie game dev.

A few years back, we said goodbye to a stable income and sold our house to chase our dream of making games with no guarantee it would work out. Many thought we were crazy, we may even have questioned it ourselves, but here we are over two years later still at it.

And now, as requested by our Patrons we've decided to give an inside look, answering your questions, to celebrate our Youtube channel surpassing 20K subscribers.

No topic is off limits in this one, we'll be answering questions about financial struggles, our personal lives, and of course game dev. 

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Welcome to The Indie Game Development podcast! Today, we're exploring the genius level design of Super Meat Boy.

Ed McMillan, known for his quirky games like The Binding of Isaac, created a masterpiece with Super Meat Boy. Unlike Mario, this platformer keeps it simple with basic moves: walk, run, jump, and wall jump. But don't be fooled – it gets insanely challenging.

Ed's level design is brilliant, introducing new mechanics and hazards at the perfect pace. From dodging saws to navigating disappearing blocks, each level builds upon the last, testing your skills in new ways.

Super Meat Boy teaches players without holding their hand, making it a masterclass in game design. It proves that you don't need complex mechanics to make a great game – just solid gameplay and clever level design.

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In this episode of The Indie Game Development Podcast, we explore the metaphorical landscape of game development, likening its challenges to treacherous mountains.

Join us as we navigate the highs and lows of the journey, embracing the struggle, celebrating the triumphs, and finding magic in the process.

Whether you're scaling familiar peaks or charting new territory, this episode offers insights and encouragement for every developer.