Explore every episode of the podcast Product of Play

In this episode of Product of Play, host Curtis Schmidt interviews J.T. Smith, CEO of TheGameCrafter.com, to discuss the critical role of prototyping in board game development. Smith shares insights on expediting the prototyping process, the importance of early testing, and common pitfalls new designers face. They delve into services provided by The Game Crafter and Component Studio, highlighting tools and resources available to designers for creating quality prototypes. Smith also emphasizes the significance of understanding production processes, particularly print logistics, and how aspiring designers can navigate their journey from ideation to completion. Listeners gain valuable advice on balancing component quality with cost, engaging with community resources, and strategizing towards potential publication goals.

00:00 Introduction to Prototyping with J.T. Smith
01:22 The Importance of Prototyping in Game Development
02:01 Getting Started with Your Game Prototype
03:22 Tools and Resources from The Game Crafter
05:07 Common Mistakes in Game Prototyping
06:42 Understanding The Game Crafter's Services
11:08 Balancing Quality and Quantity in Prototyping
12:17 Trends and Personal Stories in Game Prototyping
14:28 The Game Crafter Marketplace
16:19 Community-Driven Development at The Game Crafter
18:01 J.T. Smith's Game Design Process
20:10 Prototyping and Iteration in Game Design
20:20 The Long Journey of 'Captain is Dead'
21:33 Modern Iteration Timelines
22:28 Gathering and Processing Feedback
24:04 Component Studio vs. Game Crafter
25:35 Avoiding Common Prototyping Pitfalls
27:04 Preparing for Publication
29:01 Cost Considerations in Game Design
31:11 Incorporating Miniatures: Costs and Considerations
32:03 Effective Playtesting Strategies
36:03 Leveraging Communities and Resources
39:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Product of Play, host Curtis Schmidt talks with Ben Perez of Trinket Studios about the journey and challenges of indie game development from a designer's perspective. Ben shares valuable insights on their game design process, team dynamics, and strategies for pitching to publishers. He delves into the history of Trinket Studios, their notable projects, and how they navigate market trends. They also discuss the importance of character-driven narratives, balancing innovation with feasibility, and tips for maintaining a lean yet effective development team. Additionally, Ben highlights his work with the Chicago Game Lab, fostering a collaborative environment for game developers. Tune in to learn more about their projects and gain practical advice for aspiring indie game developers.

00:00 Introduction to the Indie Game Development Series

01:15 Meet Ben Perez of Trinket Studios

01:48 The Journey of Trinket Studios

03:05 Lessons Learned from Game Development

05:52 Navigating the Pandemic and New Projects

11:11 Pitching to Publishers

18:43 The Importance of Networking and Team Building

22:01 Finding the Right Publisher

25:18 The Role of Indie Developers in the Industry

29:02 Chicago Game Lab and Community Building

30:52 Conclusion and Upcoming Projects

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INDIE GAME SPOTLIGHT, PART 1: Inside the Publisher's Mind

In the first part of a special two-part series on indie game development, Curtis Schmidt, host of Product of Play, is joined by Chris Klimecky of Midwest Games, an indie publisher. They delve into the process of working with a publisher to successfully launch a game, discussing crucial aspects such as using money and time wisely, having a development framework, managing scope, team building, and the role of iteration. Chris provides valuable insights into common pitfalls indie developers face and emphasizes the importance of having a solid plan before approaching a publisher. This episode also highlights the current challenges in the gaming industry, trends to watch for, and upcoming projects from Midwest Games.

00:00 Introduction to Indie Game Development Series

01:41 Meet Chris Klimecky of Midwest Games

04:02 Understanding Development Frameworks

06:16 Common Pitfalls for Indie Developers

11:34 Team Building and Resource Management

17:38 The Importance of Iteration

25:47 When to Involve Publishers

33:17 Current Industry Trends and Challenges

43:01 Upcoming Projects from Midwest Games

44:52 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

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Conquer the Convention: Board Game Edition

In this episode of Product of Play, host Curtis Schmidt is joined by Ross Thompson, head of marketing at Atomic Mass Games. They discuss key strategies and tips for making the most out of attending board game trade shows. Ross shares his wealth of experience, covering everything from selecting the right shows to attend, critical planning steps, and creating memorable booth experiences. The conversation delves into practical advice for both small and large publishers, the importance of setting clear goals, and how to effectively measure success at these events.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
01:29 Ross Thompson's Journey in the Gaming Industry
02:27 Choosing the Right Trade Shows
03:57 Maximizing Trade Show Presence
05:33 Evaluating Trade Show Success
11:49 The Importance of Gamma Expo
13:43 Gen Con: The Major Show for Tabletop Gaming
15:55 Creating Memorable Experiences at Gen Con
23:06 Prepping for Conventions
26:39 Exciting Announcements at Gen Con
26:56 AEG's Unique Marketing Strategy
28:11 Preparing for Product Launches
28:52 Managing Inventory and Sales
30:21 Measuring Success at Trade Shows
31:35 Networking and Influencer Engagement
35:29 Common Mistakes to Avoid
36:57 Effective Planning and Preparation
42:27 Promotional Strategies and Bundles
46:20 Choosing the Right Trade Shows
48:02 Balancing Work and Well-being
48:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Product of Play, hosted by Curtis Schmidt, voice actress Ali Hillis shares her extensive experience in the world of video game voice acting. Known for her roles in games like Mass Effect and Final Fantasy, Hillis discusses the preparation that goes into voice acting, collaboration with directors, the influence of AI on the industry, and memorable stories from her career. Hillis emphasizes the value of strong direction, relationship dynamics, and the physicality of voice acting, as well as offering tips for aspiring voice actors. Tune in for a deep dive into the craft and nuances of bringing video game characters to life.

00:00 Introduction to Allie Hillis
00:31 Welcome to Product of Play
01:09 Allie Hillis' Voice Acting Journey
01:43 The Art of Voice Acting in Video Games
03:24 Techniques and Challenges in the Booth
04:47 Collaboration and Character Development
13:33 The Impact of AI on Voice Acting
15:04 Memorable Stories and Tips
20:17 Upcoming Projects and Conclusion

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In this episode of Product of Play, host Curtis Schmidt dives into the world of content marketing for tabletop gaming. Special guest, Spencer Williams, Senior Marketing Manager at GameNerdz.com, shares valuable strategies for creating engaging content that appeals to board game enthusiasts. The discussion covers the evolution of GameNerdz.com, the importance of being genuine on camera, benefits and challenges of live streaming, leveraging audience feedback, and effectively using SEO and social media to drive traffic. Spencer also offers practical advice for new content creators, emphasizing the need to set realistic limits and to stay true to oneself. Join us to uncover the magic behind successful content marketing in the gaming industry.

00:00 Introduction to Tabletop Gaming

01:28 Meet Spencer Williams from GameNerds

01:50 The Evolution of GameNerds

02:36 Content Creation Strategies

05:01 Engaging with the Audience

07:08 Consistency and Scheduling

07:57 Leveraging Live Streams

08:18 Audience Feedback and Interaction

10:52 Multi-Use Content and SEO

11:56 Using Social Media for Promotion

12:54 Driving Traffic and Analytics

19:31 Tips for New Content Creators

23:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of the Product of Play podcast, host Curtis Schmidt delves into virtual reality game development with Ray McCaffrey, Chief Development Officer at Steel Wool Games, the studio behind Five Nights at Freddy's: Help Wanted 1 &2. McCaffrey shares insights on the unique challenges of VR game design, the importance of player feedback, and the influence of first-party hardware companies. They explore the balance between graphical fidelity and gameplay mechanics, as well as the future of VR, AR, and XR technologies in gaming. Tune in to uncover the strategies that bring immersive VR experiences to life.

00:00 Introduction to VR Game Development

00:03 Meet Ray McCaffrey from Steel Wool Games

01:51 Challenges in VR Game Design

03:25 Designing Intuitive VR Interactions

07:15 Balancing Narrative and Gameplay in VR

09:04 Player Feedback and Community Engagement

10:40 Influence of First Party Companies

13:16 Challenges to VR Mass Adoption

25:37 Technical Considerations for VR Comfort

29:20 Future of VR and Final Thoughts

30:51 Conclusion and Farewell

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A PODCAST THAT EXAMINES GAMES FROM A PRODUCT PERSPECTIVE

Embark on a captivating journey through the realm of game development. Delve into the entire product development cycle, from the inception of ideas to the final release. Listen as we explore game creation, including concept ideation, design, testing, marketing strategies, and more. Whether it's captivating board games, cutting-edge VR experiences, or immersive video games, we'll unravel the stories and strategies that helped bring great games to the market.

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