Hey, Good Game

Crafting the Perfect Puzzle: James Sinclair on Handcrafted, Variant Sudoku

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0800

James Sinclair shares his remarkable journey from immigration lawyer to full-time puzzle crafter and creator of the Artisanal Sudoku Substack—a haven for lovers of elegant, human-made Sudoku variants.

In this episode, James breaks down his puzzle design philosophy, his preference for handcrafted logic over AI generation, and how he’s turned personal passion into a growing newsletter, a community of solvers, and a published puzzle book. The conversation covers everything from the joys and challenges of variant Sudoku to the deeper question: What makes a puzzle satisfying to solve?

James also shares thoughts on monetization, platform choice, audience building, and why central hubs like Logic Masters Germany play a key role in the global puzzle scene. Plus, he previews Sudoku Con, talks about the fog-based puzzle design he’s experimenting with, and gives rapid-fire takes on puzzle pet peeves, dream collaborations, and favorite solves.

🧩 Games, Platforms & Influences Mentioned

Variant Sudoku – His main craft
Artisanal Sudoku – James’s Substack newsletter
Logic Masters Germany (LMG) – Puzzle publishing hub
Cracking the Cryptic – Popular YouTube channel mentioned
Sudoku Con – Community event
Dynamic Fog puzzles – One of James’s current experiments
AI-generated puzzles – Discussed critically

🌐 Websites & Platforms Mentioned

Website: https://artisanalsudoku.substack.com/
https://substack.com/@artisanalsudoku

(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Background
(01:13) - James Sinclair's Favorite Games
(02:26) - Discovering Sudoku
(05:04) - Exploring Variant Sudoku
(08:53) - Starting Artisanal Sudoku
(18:09) - Creating and Publishing Puzzles
(22:12) - Choosing Substack and Growing an Audience
(27:24) - Creating Puzzles for the Newsletter
(28:14) - Logic Master Stot Land: A Puzzle Haven
(29:21) - The Need for a Central Puzzle Platform
(31:40) - Marketing Strategies for Substack
(33:09) - The Journey to Publishing a Sudoku Book
(38:53) - AI and Handcrafted Puzzles
(46:11) - Sudoku Con and Community Events
(47:35) - Rapid Fire Questions and Puzzle Preferences
(50:15) - Dynamic Fog Puzzles and Final Thoughts

Check out our brainy games:

Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com

32 Wordles?! Bryan Chen on Building Duotrigordle

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Bryan Chen joins Nate Kadlac and Aaron Kardell on Hey, Good Game to unravel how a simple coding side project exploded into Duotrigordle, the 32-Wordle brain buster beloved by millions.

A computer science student at the University of Waterloo, Bryan walks us through his programming journey from C# exercises in grade school to building viral games during online college lockdowns. The episode explores how Duotrigordle evolved from a dorm-room Discord link into one of the most beloved—and chaotic—Wordle spinoffs online.

The trio discusses Bryan’s inspirations (from Waffle to Magic: The Gathering), why he values intuitive UX over flashy features, and how he’s balancing indie game maintenance with his academic and career goals. Bryan also opens up about monetization, treating side projects as portfolio pieces, and the emotional payoff of seeing friends unknowingly become fans of his work.

Favorite Games Mentioned by Bryan Chen

Magic: The Gathering – His all-time favorite
Wordle – Foundational inspiration
Octordle / Quordle – Multi-board Wordle influences
Waffle – Admired for clean design and visual polish
League of Legends – Used its API as a test project
Tetris (AI bot project) – As a personal dev exercise

🔗 Find Bryan Chen online
Game: https://duotrigordle.org/

Website: https://thesilican.com/

GitHub & side projects linked on his website

(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
(00:00) - Going Viral: The Unexpected Success
(00:29) - Meet Bryan Chen: Creator of Duotrigordle
(01:31) - Bryan's Gaming Journey
(01:49) - Magic: The Gathering and Board Games
(06:31) - Early Interest in Software Development
(08:49) - The Birth of Duotrigordle
(16:35) - Iterating and Improving the Game
(22:50) - Monetization and Motivations
(38:33) - Future Projects and Advice for Creators
(42:14) - Conclusion and Farewell

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From Bingo Nights to Daily Puzzles: The Story of Silly Little Games

Aaron Kardell — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Angela Swain and Mariam Mollaghaffari join Aaron Kardell on Hey, Good Game to share how two longtime friends turned a nostalgic obsession with wordplay into Silly Little Games—a vibrant, human-crafted daily puzzle experience.

Angela (a flight attendant with a journalism background) and Mariam (an architect with design chops) break down the collaborative, scrappy spirit behind their Rebus-style puzzle game Silly Little Codes. From hand-drawing hundreds of clever puzzles in Figma to battling bad developers and solving design challenges (including a keyboard that nearly derailed their launch), the duo talks candidly about their indie journey—complete with frog-fueled editing fights and dream expansions into physical card games.

The episode explores how Angela and Mariam are navigating indie game development without coding skills, what they've learned from BlueSky and social media outreach, and why they’ve stayed committed to handcrafted design in an AI-saturated market. They also tease upcoming games under the Silly Little Games umbrella and share honest insights about self-funding, monetization plans, and growing a community of puzzle lovers.

🧩 Games & Favorites Mentioned

Silly Little Codes (Angela & Mariam's daily puzzle game)
Backgammon (Mariam’s nostalgic favorite, tied to her Iranian heritage)
Bingo and Spoons (Angela’s family-friendly picks)
Architecture as Tetris (Mariam compares architectural design to the game)

🔗 Website & Socials

Website: https://www.playsillylittlegames.com
Instagram, Threads, TikTok, BlueSky: @playsillylittlegames
Note: Not on Reddit (permanently banned 😅)

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
(01:42) - Favorite Games and Nostalgic Memories
(05:09) - The Origin Story of Angela and Mariam's Friendship
(07:47) - Creating Silly Little Games: The Initial Idea
(11:57) - Designing and Collaborating on Puzzles
(30:44) - Challenges in Developing the Digital Game
(32:32) - Starting Over: The Struggles of Development
(33:16) - Keyboard Woes: A Major Setback
(34:29) - Finding the Right Developer
(35:24) - Balancing Passion and Practicality
(40:29) - Monetization and Future Plans
(50:27) - Challenges with Social Media and Promotion
(01:03:17) - Looking Ahead: New Games and Growth

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When Pixel Art Tells a Spooky Story

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:00:00 -0700

From Haunted Pixels to Conservation: Peter Lazarski on Art, Accessibility, and Indie Game Grit

Indie developer and visual artist Peter Lazarski—aka Imaginary Monsters—joins Nate to explore his creative evolution from childhood horror obsessions to crafting cult-favorite lo-fi games like Halloween Forever and Deathstate. Known for his pixelated gothic aesthetic and offbeat charm, Peter shares how games like Earthbound shaped his visual language and love for physical editions.

The conversation touches on Peter’s iterative design process, how he blends art with mechanics, and why accessibility and emotional tone matter in indie games. He also unpacks the ethos behind his newest project, Don’t Kill the Bats—a whimsical but meaningful game raising awareness for bat conservation.

Peter reflects on developing under an alias, building community through mentorship, and finding creative purpose in strange, spooky spaces.

Check out Peter's Resources:
https://imaginarymonsters.com

https://imaginarymonsters.shop

https://twitch.tv/imaginarymonsters

https://discord.gg/imaginarymonsters

🎮 Favorite Games Mentioned:

EarthBound (SNES) – Peter’s all-time favorite
Tactics Ogre (Re-release) – Currently playing
Persona 5 – Currently playing
F-Zero, Super Mario World – Childhood favorites
Commander Keen, DOOM, Wolfenstein – Early PC gaming
Monster Party (NES) – Referenced for sprite interpretation
Metroid II (Game Boy) – Admired for its enemy art in the manual
Ayuda Mort – ZX Spectrum-style indie game that influenced Halloween Forever
Castlevania – Referenced as a typical “bat enemy” game
Splatterhouse – Mentioned as a game style he’d love to try
Rolling Stock – Mentioned earlier as a favorite (possibly in a different episode or cut)

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(01:41) - Peter Lazarski's Gaming Preferences
(02:15) - Early Gaming Influences and Inspirations
(04:42) - The Impact of Earthbound and Physical Game Editions
(13:36) - The Evolution of Halloween Forever
(18:04) - Challenges and Iterative Development
(23:56) - Art and Mechanics in Game Design
(26:44) - Nostalgia and Artistic Style
(28:59) - Visual Exploration and Prototyping
(30:36) - The Evolution of Imaginary Monsters
(33:14) - Navigating the Alias
(39:48) - Community and Mentorship
(43:54) - Design Philosophy and Accessibility
(48:38) - Introducing 'Don't Kill the Bats'
(50:54) - Connecting with Imaginary Monsters
(52:21) - Conclusion and Farewell

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Life in 60 Seconds: Michael Frei’s ‘Time Flies’

Joseph Reuter, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Award-winning artist, animator, and game designer Michael Frei joins Nate and Joseph to share his creative journey from apprentice construction draftsman to co-founder of Zurich’s Playable, the indie studio behind critically acclaimed interactive works like Plug & Play, Kids, and the meditative mortality sim Time Flies.

Michael breaks down his minimalist approach to game design—how stripping away noise can lead to emotional clarity—and explains why humor, absurdity, and interaction are central to his artistic voice. He reflects on transitioning from animation to games, his fascination with weird player dynamics, and why making something personally meaningful matters more than chasing trends.

Frei also shares lessons from testing, iterating, and publishing across platforms, as well as advice for aspiring indie creators navigating simplicity, success, and staying creatively grounded in a crowded market.

Check out Michael Frei's Resources:
https://michaelfrei.io/
https://x.com/panic
https://bsky.app/profile/michaelfrei.io
https://www.instagram.com/michaelfrei10/

Games Mentioned:
FIFA - Michael's favorite game to play
Glider
Not About Us
Plug and Play
Time Flies
Windowsill
Feet Ahead

--

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(00:22) - Meet Michael Frei: The Minimalist Game Designer
(01:11) - Michael's Gaming Preferences and FIFA
(02:45) - The Origin of 'Time Flies'
(04:42) - Early Inspirations and Programming
(06:04) - From Construction Draftsman to Animation
(08:49) - Transition to Interactive Art and Games
(14:20) - Principles of Minimalist Game Design
(15:55) - Animation Style and Player Interaction
(18:12) - Defining Success and Monetization in Games
(21:22) - User Testing and Feedback
(22:51) - The Iterative Process of Animation
(23:11) - The Creative Journey Behind 'Cars'
(25:13) - Designing for Different Consoles
(27:59) - Advice for Aspiring Indie Game Developers
(30:26) - The Art of Drafting and Line Art
(34:01) - Inspiration and Influences
(40:38) - The Making of 'Time Flies'
(43:13) - Where to Find More About the Creator

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From Wall Street to Wordplay: Inside Pete Muller’s Mind

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Pete Muller is not your average guest—he’s a quant hedge fund legend, a touring singer-songwriter, and a prolific puzzle constructor whose creations appear in The New York Times and The Washington Post. In this episode we dive into Pete’s polymath life: his journey from math to markets, from poker tables to music stages, and how puzzles tie it all together. We also discuss his latest creation, the “Think Twice” puzzle, and what drives him to keep solving, creating, and performing. Whether you love games, music, or stories about reinvention, this conversation will surprise and inspire.

Check out Pete's Resources:
https://petespuzzleplayground.com/
https://www.petemuller.com/
https://www.forbes.com/profile/peter-muller/
https://www.youtube.com/@PeteMullerMusic/featured
https://www.pdtpartners.com/

Games Mentioned:
Poker - Pete's favorite game to play
Crosswords
Variety cryptics
Bridge
Chess
Ping pong
Ultimate Frisbee
Blackjack
Wordle
Letter Boxed
Stray Cat Strut
Meta Puzzle
Scrabble
Sudoku
Spelling Bee
KenKen

(00:00) - Introduction to Pete Muller: A Modern Polymath
(01:58) - Pete's Favorite Games and Puzzles
(03:39) - From Poker to Quantitative Trading
(06:05) - The Evolution of PDT Partners
(10:34) - Balancing Music and Finance
(13:13) - The Art of Puzzle Creation
(20:20) - Meta Puzzles and Musical Connections
(24:42) - Introducing the Mini Meta Puzzle
(25:49) - Creating and Testing the Mini Meta
(27:11) - The Think Twice Puzzle Concept
(28:49) - Developing the Think Twice App
(30:58) - Scoring and User Engagement
(36:20) - Puzzle Addiction and Mental Workouts
(39:44) - Mindfulness and Avoiding Burnout
(41:30) - Hosting and Community Involvement
(45:21) - The Future of AI in Puzzles
(47:32) - Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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Funding Dreams & Crafting Stories: Lessons From an Indie Game Visionary

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Indie-game luminary Tatiana Delgado joins Nate to trace her 20-year journey from drawing paper games as a kid to co-founding Madrid’s Out of the Blue Games. She explains how titles like Call of the Sea create emotional tension without combat, why early VR prototyping was both thrilling and nausea-inducing, and how small studios can balance artistic vision with funding realities.

Tatiana also teases two new projects—Lovecraft-flavored sequel Call of the Elder Gods and branching visual-novel series The Vigilante Diaries—while sharing hard-won advice on user testing, team culture, and pitching in today’s crowded market.

Check out Tatiana's Resources:
https://www.outbluegames.com
https://x.com/OutBlueGames
https://x.com/arilea

Games Mentioned:
Portal 2 - Tatiana's favorite game to play
Wonder Boy series
Myst
Riven
Aladdin VR
Warhammer

--

(00:00) - to Call of the Sea
(00:32) - Tatiana Delgado
(01:32) - Gaming Journey
(02:15) - Career and Inspirations
(10:29) - Out of the Blue Games
(13:52) - Development Philosophy
(19:16) - in VR Game Development
(21:14) - on User Testing and Feedback
(25:52) - and Ethical Considerations
(26:50) - and Pricing Strategies
(31:22) - Projects and Final Thoughts

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From Zero to Hooked in 20 Seconds: The Stopwatch Strategy for Sustainable Indies

Aaron Kardell — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0700

What does it take to turn a minimalist text-based game into a global phenomenon?

Indie developer and software craftsman Amir Rajan joins us to unpack his unconventional path from enterprise software to the top of the App Store with A Dark Room. In this episode, we explore how Amir built the DragonRuby Game Toolkit, why betting on hyper-niche communities pays off, and how rapid prototyping drives sustainable success in indie dev. From cracking console publishing to navigating the unpredictable App Store ecosystem, Amir shares hard-earned insights into the creative and financial realities of going solo in the game industry.

Whether you’re a seasoned dev or just starting out, this episode offers an honest look at the intersection of craft, code, and commerce.

Check out Amir's Resources:
https://amirrajan.net/
https://x.com/amirrajan
https://github.com/amirrajan
https://www.twitch.tv/amirrajan
https://www.youtube.com/@amirrajan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirrajan/
https://www.reddit.com/user/amirrajan/

Games Mentioned:
Illusion of Gaia - Amir's favorite game to play
Slay the Spire
Balder's Gate
mildly interesting RTS
Dark Room
De Noble Circle
Inside Vista
Dragon Ruby Game Toolkit

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(00:27) - Amir Rajan's Background and Achievements
(01:48) - Favorite Games and Gaming Nostalgia
(03:17) - Corporate Life and Transition to Game Development
(04:57) - The Inspiration Behind Dragon Ruby
(07:57) - Challenges of Mobile App Development
(11:01) - Creating Dragon Ruby Game Toolkit
(16:01) - The Success of A Dark Room
(20:35) - Sustainable Game Development Strategies
(22:49) - Indie Game Development Strategies
(23:38) - The Importance of Short Release Cycles
(24:38) - Cross-Platform Distribution
(26:56) - Navigating Console Releases
(31:16) - Monetization Strategies
(37:15) - Fail Fast and Iterate
(39:02) - Community and Networking
(43:40) - Maintaining and Updating Games
(44:51) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Why Most Web Games Skip the Sound—and What They’re Missing

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0700

What does it take to create unforgettable game audio—from eerie soundscapes in Death Stranding to iconic branding in Mortal Kombat?

Composer and sound designer Joel Corelitz joins us to talk about his path from writing music for pharmaceutical ads to shaping the sonic identity of major titles. We dive into the creative process, what good feedback really sounds like, the overlooked potential of sound in web games, and why sometimes doing the work is more important than waiting for inspiration.

Check out Joel's Resources:
https://joelcorelitz.com/
http://twitter.com/joelcorelitz
http://instagram.com/joelcorelitz
https://joelcorelitz.bandcamp.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@joelcorelitzmusic

Games Mentioned:
Dark Souls - Joel's favorite game to play
Halo Infinite
Death Stranding
Mortal Kombat One
The Unfinished Swan
Nine Souls
The Last Clockwinder
Hyperlight Breaker
Hyperlight Drifter
Lazy River

(00:00) - Introduction to Joel Kitz and Wave Plant
(00:56) - Joel's Favorite Games and Balancing Work and Play
(03:36) - The Journey from Advertising to Game Composing
(08:52) - The Creative Process and Musical Language
(15:51) - Feedback and Collaboration in Game Music
(19:30) - Budgeting for Game Music and Audio Branding
(25:30) - Exploring Sound Design in Games
(26:14) - The Role of Musicality in Sound Design
(30:02) - Challenges in Sound Design and Asset Management
(31:04) - Collaborations and Working Solo
(32:29) - Impact of AI on Creative Work
(35:30) - Teaching Game Music Composition
(38:23) - Starting a YouTube Channel
(41:46) - Formal Education vs. Self-Learning in Music Composition
(43:49) - Reflecting on Career Choices
(44:59) - Current and Upcoming Projects
(46:08) - Connecting with Joel Online

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From Craps Tables to Sudoku Grids: A Microsoft Vet's Journey into Puzzle Setting

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 06:15:23 -0700

Meet David Workman, known in the puzzle world as "HalfBakedLunatic" - a Microsoft veteran who creates Sudoku puzzles so difficult he can't solve them himself.

David shares the incredible story of how he invented TiVo's core technology in 1996, only to watch it slip away when his two-page concept paper got buried at Microsoft. He reveals his epic gambling simulation that proved why casinos always win (even with unlimited money, you'd eventually make bets exceeding the world's GDP), and explains the paradox of puzzle creation - building something is the opposite of solving it.

With 64 puzzles published and 10 featured on the legendary Cracking the Cryptic YouTube channel, David has earned his place among elite puzzle setters. His masterpiece had viewers watching for 45 minutes before a single digit was placed. Plus: the hilarious tale of licensing Elvis for $1,200 while a cockroach photo nearly cost millions.

Check out David Workman's Resources:
http://www.halfbakedlunatic.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mediabizdev/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCkyCXQNZY5ZhoSy1dL8b1Q
https://logic-masters.de/Raetselportal/Benutzer/eingestellt.php?start=0&name=HalfBakedLunatic

Games Mentioned:
Craps - David's favorite game to play
Pinochle
Sudoku
Kropki puzzles

(00:00) - Introduction to Puzzle Setting
(00:28) - Meet David Workman: The Prolific Puzzle Setter
(01:08) - David's Favorite Games and Betting Strategies
(01:46) - The Martingale Betting Strategy Explained
(07:22) - David's Journey in the Broadcast Electronics Industry
(09:30) - The Birth of TiVo: A Missed Opportunity
(10:55) - Licensing Elvis Presley and Other Fun Stories
(12:40) - David's Love for Sudoku and Puzzle Setting
(16:40) - Challenges and Joys of Creating Puzzles
(19:42) - Tools and Techniques for Puzzle Setting
(23:05) - Creative Puzzle Themes and Ideas
(28:11) - Monetization and Publishing Platforms
(29:27) - Corporate Events and Custom Puzzles
(33:12) - David's Favorite Puzzles and Their Stories
(39:06) - Closing Thoughts and Where to Find David's Puzzles

Check out our brainy games:

The Faceless Creator Behind One of YouTube’s Brainiest Channels

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 03:59:02 -0700

In this episode, we talk with Jason Todd—aka Timberlake—the faceless creator behind the YouTube channel Smart Hobbies. Jason shares how he turned Sudoku from a personal pastime into a thriving YouTube channel with over 900K views on a single video. We dive into the strategy behind his growth, why he stays off-camera, how he connects with an older audience, and the surprising power of Sudoku games in a fast-paced creator economy.

Check out Timberlake's Resources:
https://www.youtube.com/@SmartHobbies
https://buymeacoffee.com/timberlakeb
https://www.instagram.com/timberlakesmarthobbies

Games Mentioned:
Sudoku - Timberlake's favorite game to play
Wingspan
Scrabble
Chess

(00:00) - Introduction and Top Videos Overview
(00:20) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(01:12) - Meet Jason Todd, AKA Timberlake
(01:51) - Jason's Favorite Games
(02:22) - The Birth of Smart Hobbies
(04:04) - The Faceless Channel Strategy
(06:25) - Jason's Background and Career
(08:33) - The Journey to YouTube Success
(10:35) - Content Creation and Audience Engagement
(23:44) - Revenue Streams and Future Plans
(29:30) - Balancing Work and Personal Life
(29:49) - Overcoming Regret and Embracing Routine
(30:18) - Collaborating in the Sudoku Community
(33:35) - Growing Your YouTube Channel
(34:14) - Choosing the Right Platform for Courses
(39:15) - Understanding Your Audience
(41:51) - The Importance of Quality Content
(45:36) - Exploring the Benefits of Sudoku
(52:07) - Future of Sudoku and Community Building
(54:55) - Connecting with Timberlake

Check out our brainy games:

From Red Dead to WordGlyph: The Actor Who Built a Word Game With Toothpicks and Code

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 27 May 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Kevin Glikmann, actor and creator of WordGlyph, joins us to share his wild creative journey—from voicing unforgettable characters in Red Dead Redemption to hand-building one of the most unusual word games on the internet.

We talk about the inventing spirit that started with childhood roller coaster blueprints, the challenge of onboarding players in a genre-breaking game, and how Kevin used AI to accelerate coding without losing control. He also shares scrappy marketing tactics, ASMR game videos, and why rejection just means you’re onto something original.

Check out Kevin's Resources:
https://wordglyph.xyz/

https://kevinglikmann.com

Game Mentions
Chess - Kevin's favorite game to play
WordGlyph

Red Dead Redemption

Scrabble

Upwords

Chopper (Apple II)

(01:20) - – Playing Bullet Chess and Getting Stuck
(03:15) - – Inventing at Age 9: A Roller Coaster Pitch to Disneyland
(05:00) - – Creative Parents and Early Exposure to Production
(06:30) - – From Airplane Spoofs to Apple II Coding
(08:00) - – Taking Apart the Rubik’s Cube to Make It Harder
(09:30) - – Balancing Left-Brain Code with Right-Brain Performance
(11:00) - – Vulnerability in Acting vs. Game Design
(14:00) - – Why Seth Breyers Didn’t Return in Red Dead 2
(16:30) - – Favorite Roles and Joy of Physical Acting
(18:40) - – Why Game Creation Is So Much Harder Than Voice Acting
(20:00) - – Kevin’s Failed Game Inventions (Scrap Ball, Word Race)
(22:30) - – From Toy Agents to Hasbro Rejections
(24:00) - – Where Word Glyph Began: Breaking Letters Into Segments
(25:30) - – Toothpicks, Flash Prototypes, and the Original Word Glyph
(27:30) - – The Wordle Wake-Up Call
(28:45) - – Building Word Glyph with JavaScript and AI
(31:30) - – The Frustration of Not Knowing Your Own Code
(34:00) - – Marketing Scrappiness: Reddit, Y Combinator, TikTok
(37:17) - – Creating Linguistic and Math Angles with AI-Generated Articles
(40:02) - – Discovering ASMR as a Game Marketing Tactic
(42:17) - – Why Influencers Cost $15K+ (and What to Do Instead)
(44:02) - – The Power of DIY Press, Product Hunt, and Discord
(48:02) - – Onboarding Through Experience, Not Instructions
(51:02) - – Game Design Tip: Help Players Win Early
(52:17) - – How Kevin Uses Community Boards for Learning & Retention
(53:32) - – Why Bad Moves in Ads Might Work
(55:02) - – What Kevin Would (and Wouldn’t) Do Differently

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One Game, 50 Million Views: How Word Salad Took Off

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 20 May 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Samuel Johnston, co-founder of Bleppo and co-creator of Word Salad, joins us to share how a daily word game turned into a viral hit with over 50 million views. We talk about designing for TikTok, teaching new users game mechanics, building games that are fun (not addictive), and what it’s like growing a studio by betting on the right kind of sharing.

Check out Samuel's Resources:
https://bleppo.co.uk/
https://wordsalad.online
https://numbersalad.com/
https://steks.net/

Game Mentions
Morrowind
RimWorld
Diablo II
Day of the Tentacle
Red Alert
NYT Strands
NYT Connections

(00:29) - Meet Samuel Johnston: Founder of Bleppo
(01:14) - Samuel's Favorite Games
(02:07) - Nostalgic Gaming Moments
(04:12) - Creating Non-Addictive Games
(07:48) - The Birth of Bleppo
(10:12) - Developing Word Salad
(11:52) - The Art of Cryptic Crosswords
(14:50) - Setting Puzzles: A Creative Process
(23:34) - Reaching the First Thousand Players
(24:21) - Challenges in Marketing and Monetization
(24:48) - Pivoting to a New Strategy
(25:07) - Leveraging Social Media for Growth
(26:58) - Collaborating with Small Content Creators
(27:31) - Unexpected Success Stories
(36:12) - Refining the Onboarding Process
(45:31) - Future Plans and Reflections

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How to Build a Crossword Puzzle (That People Actually Want to Play)

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 13 May 2025 02:00:00 -0700

David Steinberg went from submitting crosswords to the New York Times at age 12 to becoming the editorial manager at Andrews McMeel. In this episode, he shares how puzzles captured his imagination, what makes a great daily game, and why accessibility, surprise, and player-first design are key to long-term success. We also dive into how AI, onboarding, and syndication are shaping the future of games for indie developers and solvers alike.

Check out David's Resources:
https://syndication.andrewsmcmeel.com/puzzles/category/puzzles
https://www.gocomics.com

Find David Online:
http://www.customcrossword.com
https://www.xwordinfo.com/Thumbs/?author=David+Steinberg
60 Seconds With David Steinberg

Game Mentions
https://beekeeperlabs.com/crossfire/
https://www.playbalatro.com/

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2400510/Dungeons__Degenerate_Gamblers/
https://playthebazaar.com/
https://imsqueezy.com/
https://crosswordfiend.com/

(00:59) - David's Favorite Game Right Now
(02:13) - Discovering Crosswords and Early Inspirations
(03:54) - First Attempts and Early Rejections
(04:46) - Getting Published and Shifting Focus
(06:27) - The Appeal and Evolution of Crosswords
(09:14) - Creating Crosswords: Tools and Tips
(12:56) - Solving Strategies and Tournament Insights
(14:58) - Crossword Tournaments and Competitions
(18:49) - The Future of Crosswords and Puzzle Games
(21:49) - Easy Mode for Friday Crosswords
(22:03) - Evolution of Puzzle Creation
(23:20) - Criteria for Syndicating Puzzles
(25:12) - Measuring Puzzle Success
(27:23) - Surprising Aspects of Syndication
(28:28) - Trends in the Puzzle and Gaming Industry
(33:04) - Merging Comics and Puzzles
(35:42) - AI in Puzzle Creation
(37:29) - Onboarding Players in Puzzle Games

Check out our brainy games:

Why Most Daily Games Are Broken (And How to Fix Them)

Aaron Kardell — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Hey, Good Game, we sit down with Jeff Doka — creative director, writer, and co-founder of World Seekers, a GPS-based deckbuilding game that fuses exercise and entertainment. Jeff shares lessons from building Chess Puzzle Blitz, why most daily games fail to create lasting habits, and how deep mechanics and storytelling can transform casual gaming experiences. We dive into the realities of bootstrapped game development, the art of crafting daily puzzle loops, and why designing for real-world benefit (not just dopamine hits) might be the future of gaming. Plus: why AI isn’t replacing good storytelling anytime soon, and how rolling a D20 perfectly describes indie life.

If you care about games that actually make your life better — you’ll love this one.

Check out Jeff's Resources:
https://www.4leaflabs.com/
https://www.finalbossediting.com/
https://www.worldseekersgame.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Distributor-Jeff-Doka-ebook/dp/B0DMPYTBGH
https://www.amazon.com/Running-Wlid-Novella-Anthology-Book/dp/1955062676

Socials:
https://www.facebook.com/worldseekersgame
https://www.instagram.com/worldseekers_game/
https://bsky.app/profile/finalbossediting.bsky.social

--

Check out our brainy games:

He Made a Game So Big It Needed 27 Puzzle Designers

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Elyot Grant, CEO and Game Director at Lunar Studios. Elyot shares his prolific journey from academia to game development, highlighting his expertise in creating engaging puzzles and successful indie games like Prisma. He discusses his favorite classic games, including Tetris and StarCraft, and provides deep insights into the intricacies of game design and puzzle creation.

Elyot also recounts compelling stories about their Kickstarter campaign for Prisma and using Reddit to build an early audience. Additionally, he sheds light on the making and scaling of 'Islands of Insight,' a puzzle game known for its vast number of handcrafted puzzles, emphasizing the blend of artistry and algorithmic generation in game design. This episode is filled with valuable tips for indie developers and puzzle enthusiasts alike.

Check out Elyot's Resources:
http://lunarchstudios.com/
https://user-74792.artstation.com/

Socials:
http://twitter.com/lunarchstudios
https://www.facebook.com/Prismata/
https://www.youtube.com/lunarchstudios

--

(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome
(02:17) - Elyot Grant's Gaming Preferences
(04:41) - Deep Dive into Tetris
(16:09) - Challenges and Weaknesses in Gaming
(19:43) - Kickstarter and Game Development Journey
(30:58) - Building a Community at Expos
(31:55) - Building a Community Around a Game
(32:49) - Challenges of Collecting Emails at Conventions
(35:28) - The Reddit Story: Turning a Failure into Success
(42:09) - Kickstarter Campaign: Seizing the Momentum
(45:49) - Islands of Insight: Crafting 10,000 Handcrafted Puzzles
(53:56) - The Value of Handmade Puzzles vs. Generated Puzzles
(01:00:04) - Conclusion and Future Projects

Check out our brainy games:

Fired, Broke, and 2 Weeks from a Hit: How Gabriel Stürmer Started Clap Clap Games

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:46:33 -0700

Gabriel Stürmer, CEO of Clap Clap Games. Gabriel shares his remarkable journey from working in e-commerce at Dell to venturing into gaming with Cupcake Entertainment and eventually founding his own game studio. Despite facing the setback of being fired from Cupcake, Gabriel taught himself game development through Unity tutorials and successfully published two hit games, 'Submarine Jump' and 'Snow Patrol,' with renowned publishers.

He discusses the intricate process of game testing, the evolution of hyper-casual games, and the challenges of staying ahead in the mobile gaming industry with limited resources. Gabriel also offers insights into building a successful partnership and maintaining efficiency in a small team. Listeners get a glimpse into the dynamic world of mobile game development and the resilience required to succeed.

Check out Gabriel's Resources:
https://clapclap.games/
https://linktr.ee/clapclap.games

Socials:
https://www.tiktok.com/@clapclap.games
https://www.facebook.com/ClapClapGames
https://www.instagram.com/clapclap.games
https://www.linkedin.com/company/clapclap-games/
--

(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome
(02:36) - Gabriel Sturmer's Background and Career Journey
(04:43) - The Birth of Clap Games
(07:18) - First Game Prototypes and Initial Success
(12:21) - Scaling and Testing Games
(16:31) - Current Development Process and Challenges
(24:44) - Testing and Analytics Tools
(27:45) - Iterating and Adding Complexity to Games
(28:16) - Publishing Platforms: iOS, Android, and Web
(29:02) - Challenges in Mobile Game Development
(30:07) - The Importance of Ad Creatives
(33:31) - Hiring and Team Dynamics
(39:29) - Business Model and Working with Publishers
(46:56) - The Story of Snow Patrol
(53:12) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

When to Hire a Composer: Game Music Insights with John Robert Matz

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of video game music composition with John Robert Matz, the talented composer behind scores for games like For the King, Tchia, and Gunpoint. John Robert shares his journey from classically trained musician to award-winning game composer, offering insights into his creative process and how he approaches each unique project.

John Robert discusses how he creates authentic musical experiences by incorporating period-appropriate instruments and techniques, from medieval fantasy scores to French Revolution-era compositions. He explains the importance of bringing composers into game development early, revealing how music can shape and enhance the player experience beyond just background ambiance.

With his studio filled with dozens of instruments he plays himself—from French horns and trumpets to ukuleles and medieval wind instruments—John Robert demonstrates his commitment to incorporating live performances in his work. Whether discussing his research into New Caledonian music for Tchia or explaining how UI sounds interact with background scores, this conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into the art and craft of creating memorable gaming soundscapes.

Check out John's Resources:
http://johnrobertmatz.bandcamp.com/
https://johnrobertmatz.com/index.html
https://soundcloud.com/John-Robert-Matz

Socials:
https://x.com/JohnRobertMatz
https://www.youtube.com/viper50bmg
https://www.instagram.com/johnrobertmatz/
https://www.facebook.com/JohnRobertMatz/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-robert-matz-a40b8a60/

--

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(01:07) - John's Favorite Games
(03:05) - The Composer's Perspective on Game Music
(05:50) - John's Studio Setup and Instrument Collection
(09:24) - John's Musical Journey and Career Path
(15:05) - Approach to Game Music Composition
(18:39) - Budget Considerations in Game Music
(23:05) - The Role of Music in Indie Games
(25:49) - Enhancing Player Immersion with Music and Sound Design
(26:11) - UI Sound Design and Its Challenges
(30:12) - Inspiration from Fellow Composers
(33:32) - Exploring Historical Music for Modern Compositions
(42:23) - Creating Authentic Soundscapes for Video Games
(47:11) - Common Misconceptions About Hiring Composers
(51:16) - Current and Upcoming Projects
(52:29) - Where to Find More About John Robert Matz

Check out our brainy games:

From Nokia Engineer to Indie Game Creator | Building DeCodex

Joseph Rueter — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Hey, good Game podcast, host Joseph Rueter interviews Áron Csatlós, a software engineer from Hungary and the creator of the cryptography puzzle game Decodex, which is available at playdecodecks.com. Áron shares his journey from working at Nokia for over a decade to creating various games and AI-powered tools, including Ground Kids, a personalized training plan generator. The discussion covers Áron's inspirations, development practices like building in public, and his strategies for engaging players. Áron also talks about his favorite games, including chess and League of Legends, and provides insights into his future game development plans.

Check out Áron's Resources:
https://www.playdecodex.com/
https://ko-fi.com/csaron92
https://www.reddit.com/r/Decodex/
https://bsky.app/profile/playdecodex.bsky.social

Socials:
https://twitter.com/csaron92
https://hu.linkedin.com/in/aroncsatlos
https://www.instagram.com/csaron92/

--

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(00:25) - Meet Áron Csatlós: The Mind Behind Decodex
(01:47) - Áron's Gaming Preferences
(04:13) - Exploring Ground Kids
(05:16) - Travel Tales and Building in Public
(08:47) - The Birth of Decodex
(13:37) - Marketing Strategies and Community Building
(18:47) - Future Projects and Final Thoughts

Check out our brainy games:

Think Like a Game Designer: Justin Gary on AI, Community, and Creative Iteration

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Justin Gary, CEO of Stoneblade Entertainment and author of 'Think Like a Game Designer.' They discuss Gary’s core design loop framework, focusing on how AI can enhance each step: inspiring, framing, brainstorming, prototyping, testing, and iterating. Gary talks about the importance of games in learning and building connections, his favorite games, and the role of AI in accelerating game design. The conversation extends to community building, the similarities between game design and other creative processes, and effective marketing strategies. Gary also touches on the value of adding consistent value to communities, giving a peek into upcoming projects and his remote, diverse team at Stoneblade.

Check out Justin's Resources:
https://stoneblade.com/
https://justingarydesign.substack.com/
https://www.thinklikeagamedesigner.com/
https://www.reddit.com/user/Justin_Gary/

Socials:
https://x.com/JustinGary
https://www.linkedin.com/in/justingary/

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(01:44) - The Essence of Games and Their Impact
(03:50) - Favorite Games and Community Building
(09:03) - The Role of AI in Game Design
(11:40) - Prototyping and Iteration in Game Design
(22:20) - Emotional Connection in Game Design
(28:35) - Building Community in Games
(29:21) - Creating Engaging Game Formats
(30:08) - The Role of Story in Games
(31:44) - The Importance of Super Fans
(32:05) - Marketing Strategies for Games
(35:05) - Parallels Between Game Design and Business
(39:33) - Embracing Uncertainty and Risk
(46:48) - Current and Future Projects
(50:30) - Connecting with the Community

Check out our brainy games:

Tetris, Chess, and Go: Martin Grider’s Indie Game Design Playbook

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0800

Martin's journey in game development, starting from his early days as a web developer to his current focus on iOS mobile applications. Martin shares his thoughts on AI in game development, his preferences for using Swift and Godot over Unity, and his experience with board game conversions and licensing.

Martin also delves into his design philosophy, the challenges of monetizing games in the App Store, and his latest game projects, including a Zelda-ish 2D story-based game.

Check out Martin's Resources:

http://abstractpuzzle.com/
http://martingrider.name/
http://chesstris.com/

Socials:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/livingtech/
https://www.facebook.com/AbstractPuzzle/about

(00:00) - Introduction to AI in Game Development
(00:25) - Welcome to the Hey! Good Game Podcast
(00:35) - Meet Martin Greider: Creator of Abstract Puzzle
(01:21) - Martin's Favorite Games and Tetris Variants
(02:08) - The Journey of GoTetris and Programming Languages
(03:36) - Porting Games to Android and Thrive's Development
(05:32) - Challenges of Swift and Game Engines
(07:45) - Freelancing and Board Game Conversions
(10:05) - Licensing and the Evolution of Digital Board Games
(18:08) - Paid vs. Free Apps: The Monetization Dilemma
(23:48) - Developing for Apple Vision Pro
(27:25) - Income Sources and New Game Projects
(39:04) - Game Design Philosophy and Chess Variants
(44:12) - Conclusion and Where to Find Martin Online

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From Angry Birds to Escape Rooms: The Game Design Journey of Johannes Ahvenniemi

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0800

Johannes Ahvenniemi, a seasoned mobile gaming industry professional with a diverse portfolio, including working on hits like Best Fiends and Angry Birds. Johannes shares how his interest in games started at a very young age, inspired by his brother. He discusses his passion for creating quality games without ads, his consulting work, and innovative projects like escape puzzle magazines and Sudoku solvers.

Johannes also shares his experiences working at top companies like Seriously Digital and Rovio Entertainment and founding Papukaija to make games for underserved audiences. Tune in to learn more about his unconventional journey and ambitious future projects.

Check out Johannes's Resources:
https://adartis.fi/
http://tikola.com/
https://cluehound.com/
https://sudokugen.com/
https://adartis.fi/games-by-sam/

Socials:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannes-ahvenniemi-0b71ab19/

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(00:26) - Guest Introduction: Johannes Ahvenniemi
(01:18) - Johannes' Favorite Games
(02:40) - Escape Room Games and Market
(05:08) - Early Coding Journey
(07:39) - Transition to Professional Game Development
(08:31) - Experience at Rovio
(11:18) - Game Industry in Finland
(13:45) - Time at Seriously Digital
(15:18) - Starting Independent Projects
(23:12) - Games by Sam
(32:43) - Consulting and Future Plans
(36:53) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Modern Game Design Using Paper and AI: The Couples Game Story

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0800

A masterclass in modern game development with Osebo, revealing his journey from sketching word puzzles on a flight to Jamaica to launching Couples Game using AI tools and smart design principles.

Learn how this former Tumblr and Facebook designer leverages LLMs to create engaging puzzles while building Castle's next-gen mobile game engine – proving that the best games start with pen and paper before embracing cutting-edge tech.

Check out Osebo's Resources:

https://castle.xyz/
https://www.couples.game/
https://evenings.fm/

Socials:

https://www.osebo.blog
https://www.instagram.com/0sebo/
https://x.com/0sebo
https://bsky.app/profile/osebo.bsky.social

(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
(01:24) - Interview with Osebo: Game Design Insights
(02:16) - Osebo's Favorite Games
(06:48) - The Resurgence of Chess in New York
(08:08) - Osebo's Gaming Journey
(11:32) - From Design to Programming
(14:38) - Professional Journey: Tumblr and Facebook
(16:33) - Exploring VR and Oculus
(21:13) - Castle: A Cognition Gym
(22:51) - Team and Vision at Castle
(24:57) - Game Creation and Monetization
(29:18) - Prototyping on the Way to Jamaica
(30:15) - Prototyping the Game Mechanics
(30:46) - Building and Sharing the Game
(31:39) - Community Feedback and Adjustments
(33:33) - The Role of AI in Game Development
(36:31) - Challenges and Innovations in Word Games
(39:03) - Organic Growth and Community Engagement
(43:33) - Future Plans and Monetization
(49:12) - Evening.fm and Independent Radio
(54:19) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Teaching Bridge to Fund Hollywood Dreams

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0800

Brian Reynolds, co-owner of The Bridge Teachers, brings a unique blend of creativity and gaming expertise to the world of bridge instruction. As an actor, writer, and director, Brian partnered with his wife Samantha to transform bridge education through their subscription-based platform thebridgeteachers.com.

Key takeaways include:
- Their innovative approach to teaching bridge through accessible online content
- The transition from personal instruction to scalable digital education
- The potential market of 37 million bridge players in the U.S.
- Their mission to modernize bridge education and attract younger players
- The cognitive health benefits of regular bridge playing

Check out Brian's Resources:

https://thebridgeteachers.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thebridgeteachers
https://www.instagram.com/thebridgeteachers
https://www.facebook.com/thebridgeteachers

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(00:34) - Meet Brian Reynolds: The Bridge Teacher
(01:40) - Brian's Gaming Journey
(03:08) - The World of Bridge
(03:53) - Gaming as a Social Experience
(05:21) - Brian's Perspective on Games and Life
(06:36) - Learning Bridge: A Personal Story
(08:27) - Challenges and Rewards of Learning Bridge
(11:20) - The Importance of Fun in Gaming
(17:26) - Promoting Bridge to a New Generation
(21:15) - The Bridge Teachers: A Family Business
(28:20) - BridgeBase Online and the Future of Bridge
(30:23) - Chess Ratings and Learning Dynamics
(32:44) - Bridge's Master Points System
(35:46) - Monetization Strategies for Bridge Teaching
(43:45) - Balancing Creative Pursuits and Bridge
(49:55) - The Future of Bridge and Its Market Potential
(55:13) - The Cognitive Benefits of Playing Bridge
(57:03) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Check out our brainy games:

Building Random Trivia Generator: From Hobby to Household Name

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Slavi Grozev, the creator of Random Trivia Generator. Slavi, originally an acoustic engineer, shares his journey of developing the popular trivia website, discussing his inspiration from long drives and quiz bowls during his time at engineering school. Despite having a full-time job and family commitments, Slavi dedicates time daily to update and evolve the platform. The conversation delves into Slavi's approach to building the site, handling user submissions, and future plans for new features. The episode also highlights Slavi's philosophy on user interaction, design focus, and the challenges of monetizing a passion project while keeping it accessible.

Check out Slavi's Resources:
https://www.randomtriviagenerator.com/
https://twitter.com/randomtrivia
https://www.facebook.com/randomtriviagenerator

(00:00) - Introduction and Early Marketing Challenges
(00:22) - Podcast Welcome and Listener Engagement
(01:36) - Interview with Slavi Grozev Begins
(02:24) - Slavi's Favorite Game: Heroes of Might and Magic
(04:55) - Career Journey: From Chemical to Noise Engineer
(08:23) - The Birth of Random Trivia Generator
(11:36) - Building and Growing the Trivia Platform
(17:03) - User Engagement and Content Creation
(21:56) - Future Features and Enhancements
(22:28) - Early Growth and Viral Moments
(23:59) - Impact of the Pandemic
(26:30) - Acquisition Offers and Business Decisions
(27:35) - Future Plans and User Engagement
(34:17) - Monetization Strategies
(37:43) - Localization and Translation
(41:38) - Advice for Aspiring Game Creators
(43:12) - Final Thoughts and Fun Facts

Check out our brainy games:

How to Level Up Your Chess Game: Building ChessHub.com

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 02:00:00 -0800

David Ngo is the creator of ChessHub.com and a software engineer at Amazon. They delve into David's background in software development, his passion for chess, and the creation and evolution of ChessHub.com. David shares insights into game development, user feedback, and the challenges and triumphs he faced. They also discuss domain acquisition, monetization strategies, and future features aimed at improving the chess learning experience for users.

Check out David's Resources:
https://www.chesshub.com/analysis/new

(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome
(00:24) - David Ngo's Background and ChessHub Overview
(01:07) - David's Love for Chess
(02:35) - Challenges and Experiences in Chess
(05:41) - Creating and Growing ChessHub
(14:09) - Monetization and Advertising Insights
(21:58) - Future Plans and Features for ChessHub
(28:17) - Advice for Aspiring Game Creators
(30:21) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Building a Better Chess Brain: The Story Behind Blitztactics' Fast-Paced Learning Platform

Aaron Kardell — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Linmiao Xu is the creator of Blitztactics.com. Lin, a software engineer and avid chess enthusiast, shares his experiences developing Blitztactics—a fast-paced online chess puzzle platform. They discuss Lin's 'blitz chess' addiction, his forays into charcoal art inspired by Dark Souls, and the creative processes during his travels in Asia.

Lin also delves into his involvement in training neural networks for Stockfish, a leading chess engine, and his professional role in developing generative image models at Playground. The conversation wraps up with Lin's future aspirations in game development and his philosophy on creativity and progression.

Check out Linmiao's Resources:

https://blitztactics.com/
https://lichess.org/training
https://github.com/linrock/blitz-tactics

https://robotmoon.com/
https://github.com/linrock
https://unsplash.com/@linrock
https://www.instagram.com/linrock/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/linmiao-xu/

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(01:25) - Linmiao Xu's Favorite Games
(03:39) - Art and Travel Inspirations
(06:31) - Biohacking Vision
(10:04) - The Birth of Blitztactics
(12:52) - Challenges and Popularity of Blitztactics
(15:33) - Community and Traffic Insights
(26:03) - Stockfish and AI Involvement
(31:44) - Future Projects and Closing Remarks

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Have You Ever Played A Game By Email?

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Richard Rognlie, the creator of Gamerz.net. Richard discusses his extensive background in programming, from early interest sparked by family to his career in defense contracts and web development. The conversation delves into the unique platform of Gamerz.net, which hosts over 270 play-by-email games. Richard shares insights into game design, the evolution of the site, and his experiments with various interfaces and mediums. The episode highlights the enduring appeal and challenges of asynchronous game play facilitated through email, touching on topics like user engagement, accessibility, and the potential future of the platform.

Check out Richard's Resources:

http://www.gamerz.net/
https://www.instagram.com/richardrognlie

(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome
(00:47) - Richard's Background and Early Programming Days
(02:11) - The Birth of Gamers.net
(04:10) - Game Development and Favorite Games
(10:20) - Technical Details and Challenges
(14:02) - Community and Usage Patterns
(17:51) - Future of Email-Based Games
(31:11) - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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Sandro Wahl's Journey Building Make It Meme

Joseph Rueter — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0800

In this episode, we chat with Sandro Wahl, CEO and founder of PreAlpha, and the mind behind Make It Meme, a multiplayer game that turns meme creation into a social experience.

Sandro shares his journey of creating the viral game, Make It Meme. He discusses the challenges of moderation, monetization, and the upcoming 2.0 version of the game. We also explore the social dynamics of memes and how Make It Meme has become a cultural touchstone for its players.

Check out Sandro's Resources:

https://prealpha.dev/
https://makeitmeme.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/prealpha/

https://github.com/CookedApps
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandro-wahl/

(00:00) - Introduction to the Guest: Sandro Wahl
(04:06) - The Birth of Make It Meme
(05:30) - From Private Game to Public Success
(08:08) - Gameplay Mechanics and Design Challenges
(15:14) - User Stories and Cultural Impact
(19:21) - Dynamic Meme Creation Process
(19:52) - Future of Tailored Meme Packs
(21:46) - Challenges in Moderation
(25:47) - Monetization Strategies
(28:41) - Community-Driven Moderation
(31:20) - Innovative Ad Integration
(34:56) - Exciting Upcoming Updates
(37:03) - Join the Community

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2048's Creator Returns: How He Built a Global Gaming Phenomenon at Age 19

Aaron Kardell — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0800

In this episode, we sit down with Gabriele Cirulli, who created the viral hit game 2048 when he was just 19 years old.

What started as a five-day coding experiment became a worldwide phenomenon, leading Gabriele through an unexpected journey of viral success, burnout, and eventually finding peace with his creation. After stepping away from the game for years, he recently quit his job at 1Password to work on 2048 full-time, launching a completely reimagined version with new features and improved performance.

Surprisingly, Gabriele shares his unconventional view on the thousands of copycats his game inspired, seeing them as a beautiful extension of creativity rather than theft. From dealing with the pressure of unexpected success to embracing an open-source mindset, Gabriele's story offers unique insights into what happens when a side project suddenly becomes a global sensation.

Check out Gabriele's Resources:

https://play2048.co
https://classic.play2048.co/

https://x.com/gabrielecirulli/
https://gabrielecirulli.github.io/2048
https://github.com/gabrielecirulli/2048
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielecirulli/
https://www.facebook.com/2048.by.Gabriele.Cirulli/

For questions or feedback:
feedback@play2048.co

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(00:28) - Meet Gabriele Cirulli: Creator of 2048
(01:28) - Gabriele's Favorite Game: Fortnite
(02:11) - The Evolution of Multiplayer Gaming
(03:11) - Gabriele's Journey into Web Development
(04:58) - The Changing Landscape of Web Development
(07:50) - The Viral Success of 2048
(11:00) - The Inspiration Behind 2048
(17:46) - The Open Source Impact of 2048
(26:20) - Reflecting on 2048's Success and Burnout
(26:59) - Moving to the Netherlands and Finding Normalcy
(27:38) - Creating the Mobile App and Monetization Struggles
(29:30) - Selling the Mobile App and Partnership with Solibon
(30:32) - Changing Perspectives on Advertising
(31:33) - Quitting the Job to Focus on 2048
(34:22) - Developing the New Version of 2048
(42:58) - Challenges and Feedback from the Community
(48:32) - Exclusive Amazon Prime Version
(53:39) - Future Plans and Closing Thoughts

Check out our brainy games:

From Hobby to Hit: The Ninja.io Journey with Rens Rongen

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Rens Rongen, the creator of the popular web game Ninja.io, to discuss the intricate process of game development, his inspirations, and how he balances his corporate work with his passion for creating engaging games. Rens shares insights into his creative process, the challenges of launching a multiplayer game, and the importance of community feedback in refining a project. He also touches on the role of publishers, the impact of advertising, and the joy of seeing users engage with his creations. As he prepares for the next chapter in both his personal and professional life, Rens reflects on the lessons learned and his plans for future projects.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Childhood Influence: Rens’ interest in game development was sparked in his childhood through drawing and playing games like Warcraft and Starcraft that allowed creating custom maps.
Design Iteration: The episode highlights the importance of continuous iteration and how skills in design and graphics can evolve over time with practice.
Technical Evolution: The transition from Flash to HTML5 significantly impacted Rens' development process, enabling more sophisticated multiplayer implementations.
Feature Creep: The game development journey showed how feature creep can gradually turn a hobby project into a serious commitment.
Importance of Feedback: Early user feedback is crucial. Releasing the game early, even in an imperfect state, allows for iterative improvements based on player responses.
Choosing a Domain and Branding: The process of choosing a memorable and marketable domain name, such as ninja.io, is discussed, including challenges with availability and cost.
Monetization Strategies: Understanding monetization via ads and considering other forms like selling customizations.
Leveraging Publishers: Partnering with publishers like Poki can significantly amplify reach but may require compromises such as implementing language filters to meet platform standards.
Handling Traffic Surges: Preparing for and managing server loads during significant spikes in user traffic after a major launch.
Building a Community: Using platforms like Discord to engage users, gather feedback, and create a sense of community which may include organizing tournaments and user-generated content.
Maintaining Balance: Balancing direct user interaction with productivity, as it can be both beneficial and distracting.
Adaptability and Learning: Applying lessons learned from Ninja.io to future projects, including avoiding technical debt and setting up more organized and sustainable development processes.
Life Changes: Handling personal life changes (like expecting a child) while managing ongoing projects and planning future endeavors.
Perfectionism: The challenge of overcoming perfectionism and understanding that initial releases won’t be perfect but can improve significantly through iteration.
Balancing Innovation and Stability: The need to innovate while ensuring the stability and scalability of the game’s infrastructure.

Overall, this episode offers an in-depth look at the holistic development process of an indie game, from inspiration to long-term planning, and integration of user feedback, providing valuable lessons for aspiring game developers and entrepreneurs.

Check out Rens's Resources:

https://ninja.io/
https://x.com/NinjaIO_game
https://www.reddit.com/r/ninjaio/
https://www.youtube.com/@NinjaIO
https://discord.com/invite/yAYmSWZ

(00:00) - Introduction to Game Development Challenges
(00:21) - Meet Rens Rongen: Creator of Ninja.io
(01:19) - Rens' Gaming Preferences and Inspirations
(03:13) - The Evolution of Ninja.io
(07:11) - From Hobby to Serious Project
(14:08) - Launching Ninja.io: The Journey
(19:11) - Reflecting on Past Mistakes
(20:49) - The Challenges of Solo Development
(22:29) - Partnering with Publishers
(27:53) - Community Engagement and Feedback
(29:55) - Monetization Strategies
(35:56) - Future Projects and Personal Life
(38:31) - Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Building Multiplayer Card Games: Insights from CardsJD.com

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Jimmy Dickinson, the creator of CardsJD.com. Jimmy shares his journey from early console gaming to becoming a full-time indie developer, shedding light on the unique challenges of building multiplayer games. The discussion covers his transition from Intel to game development, offering insights into successful platform ports and the importance of versatile coding skills. James emphasizes marketing strategies, including App Store Optimization (ASO) and Search Engine Optimization (SEO), alongside his rebranding journey for better platform recognition.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Game Development Insights: They will hear about Jimmy Dickinson’s journey in game development, including his move from corporate jobs to full-time indie development.
Challenges in Multiplayer Game Development: Jimmy discusses the intricacies and challenges, especially around maintaining chat and player interactions in multiplayer games.
Entrepreneurship and Game Monetization: Insights into Jimmy's entrepreneurial mindset, strategies for monetizing games without disrupting player experience, and the balance between in-app purchases and ads.
Community Building: Learn about Jimmy's emphasis on community building, from running chess tournaments to managing Facebook groups effectively.
Technical Aspects and SEO Strategy: How Jimmy deals with technical challenges such as implementing leaderboards, optimizing for different platforms (iOS, Android), and his strategies for SEO to increase game visibility.
Innovative Problem Solving: Hear about Jimmy’s unique approach to solving various problems with innovative tools, making offline functionalities more robust, and how he leverages his coding skills.

Check out Jimmy's Resources:

https://cardsjd.com/
https://cribbagecalculator.com/
https://twitter.com/jamesfdickinson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesfdickinson/

Where to play Online:

Cribbage JD - https://cardsjd.com/cribbage/
BracketJD - https://BracketJD.com

eCribbage - http://ecribbage.com/

PlayOK cribbage - https://www.playok.com/en/cribbage/

Cribbage Pro - http://www.cribbagepro.net/

Facebook - https://fb.gg/play/jimmy-cribbage

Contact:
cribbage@jdsoftwarellc.com

(00:00) - Introduction to Multiplayer Games
(00:43) - Welcome to the Hey Good Game Podcast
(01:33) - Jimmy Dickinson's Background and Career
(02:24) - Early Programming and Game Development
(05:02) - Entrepreneurial Journey and Challenges
(10:13) - Developing and Marketing Games
(24:20) - Chess Tournament Software and Innovations
(26:23) - Adapting to COVID: Transforming Tournament Software
(26:52) - Building a Community Through Online Tournaments
(29:57) - Challenges in Multiplayer Game Development
(31:07) - Enhancing User Experience with Leaderboards and Achievements
(36:45) - Monetization Strategies for Indie Developers
(48:54) - Managing and Growing Game Communities
(51:18) - Conclusion and Contact Informatio

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From Side Project to 35,000 Monthly Users: The MathHeads Story

Joseph Rueter, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Aman Rawal and Ben Hollier, the minds behind MathHeads, a game designed to make mental math enjoyable. The conversation spans the development journey and multiplayer features of MathHeads, elaborating on backend challenges, user experience, and the game’s reception. It further explores strategies in managing a mix of game modes and user engagement through platforms like Discord. The discussion highlights marketing strategies leveraging Reddit and Google Ads, tackles the intricacies of monetization and infrastructure, and showcases unexpected collaboration opportunities, such as with the World Mental Calculation League.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Community Engagement: The importance of engaging with users through platforms like Discord. MathHeads utilized user feedback extensively to improve their site and gather data on user behavior.
Iterative Development: The value of releasing basic versions of the game to get early feedback and iterating based on user responses.
Monetization Challenges: The journey to monetizing the platform, including failed attempts with Google AdSense and deciding to build a larger user base before focusing heavily on monetization.
Backend Challenges: The complexities of developing real-time, head-to-head multiplayer functionalities and managing cross-platform issues (iOS vs. Android).
Partnerships and Accountability: Highlighting the importance of having a team or partners to stay accountable and motivated, which can be crucial for maintaining momentum in developmental projects.
User Personalization: Offering different game modes and difficulty levels to appeal to a wide range of users.
Networking and Exposure: Through community and organic growth, they came across various partnerships and opportunities, albeit some didn’t align perfectly with their current capabilities or goals.
Regular Updates and Communication: Ensuring to keep the user base informed about updates through regular communication on platforms like Discord.

Check out Ben and Aman's Resources:

https://mathheads.net/

(00:00) - Focusing on User Experience and Growth
(00:47) - Introduction to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(01:01) - Meet the Creators of Math Heads
(02:16) - Favorite Games of the Creators
(03:55) - The Origin Story of Math Heads
(06:13) - Challenges and Features of Math Heads
(16:39) - User Engagement and Community Building
(18:25) - Discord's Role in QA and Community Management
(19:52) - Marketing Strategies and Initial Launch
(22:42) - Challenges with Monetization and Ads
(24:56) - Unexpected Opportunities and Collaborations
(28:33) - Future Plans and Team Dynamics
(30:17) - Advice for Aspiring Game Creators
(31:45) - Balancing User Feedback and Data
(34:36) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Check out our brainy games:

Quizwise: From Hobby Project to 140k Monthly Quiz Takers

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Andrew Bartle, the creator of the quiz game, QuizWise. With over 25 years of experience as a software developer, Andrew shares his journey from developing games as a child to founding a successful quiz platform. He discusses the importance of passion in game development, the influence of his late collaborator Barry Lakeman, and how A/B testing played a pivotal role in the site's evolution. Andrew talks about his experience with various ad providers, the impact of AI, and the dedication to maintaining the educational value of QuizWise.

In this episode, you'll learn:

QuizWise Origins: QuizWise was conceptualized as a SEO experiment and as a site with broad content appeal.
Content Creation Process: The questions are created thoughtfully, focusing on enduring relevance rather than transient details.
User Engagement and Feedback: Feedback from users, both positive and corrective, is highly encouraged and valued to maintain the site's quality.
AI Utilization: While the questions at QuizWise are not generated by AI, ChatGPT's API is used for quality control to check for accuracy, correctness, and typographical issues.
Ad Revenue and Challenges: The platform supports itself through ad revenue, attempting to balance the user experience without intrusive advertisements.
Changing ad providers can be challenging due to initial disruption but can also lead to significant revenue shifts.
Future Plans and Aspirations: There's interest in potentially developing new games and leveraging current user engagement.
Community and Legacy: Andrew’s bond with his quiz-making colleagues and the legacy of Barry Lakeman play an integral part in the story of QuizWise.

Check out Andrew's Resources:

https://www.quizwise.com/
https://www.facebook.com/QuizWise/

(00:00) - Introduction and Life Lessons from Game Development
(00:38) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(00:52) - Meet Andrew Bartle, Creator of QuizWise
(01:43) - Favorite Games and Family Fun
(03:33) - Early Days of Gaming and Programming
(11:29) - The Journey of QuizWise
(25:05) - Reflecting on QuizWise and Weirdle
(26:16) - Quiz Difficulty and Structure
(28:12) - Engaging Teachers and Students
(29:02) - User Engagement and Marketing
(30:19) - Ad Providers and Revenue
(40:30) - AI in Quiz Creation
(43:45) - The Art of Crafting Quiz Questions
(45:57) - Feedback and User Interaction
(50:05) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Check out our brainy games:

Contexto: From Side Project to Full-Time Game Creator

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Nildo Jr., known for the word-guessing game Contexto. Nildo discusses his inspiration from tech and mathematics, his migration to Norway, and the development of Contexto during the pandemic. He also shares insights into the challenges of maintaining the game, the importance of user feedback, and the educational potential of games.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Follow Your Passion and Curiosity: His fascination with algorithms and AI, leading him to create Contexto, highlights how following your interests can lead to significant accomplishments.
Importance of Simplifying User Experience: Nildo discussed the challenges of simplifying Semantle to make it more accessible, eventually leading to the creation of Contexto.
Creating Engaging and Shareable Content: One critical feature Nildo emphasized was the shareability of game results. This aspect was crucial for the game's success as it encouraged users to spread the word, leading to organic growth through social media and word-of-mouth.
Handling Feedback: Learning to handle both positive and negative feedback is essential. Positive feedback might be less frequent but recognizing that negative feedback can provide areas for improvement is vital.
Iterative Development and Continuous Improvement: The importance of continual iteration and improvement of games was highlighted, especially how feedback from users directly influenced the design and features of Contexto and other games.
Educational Value of Games: Nildo strongly believes in the educational impact of games. His desire to see his games used in educational environments showcases how digital entertainment can have a significant educational aspect.
Risk Management and Full-Time Commitment: Transitioning from a secure job to making game development his full-time occupation required careful consideration and personal growth, illustrating the need to balance risk management with pursuing one's passion.
Community and Social Play: The social aspect of games was a recurrent theme, where Nildo shared stories of people playing Contexto with family, friends, and coworkers. This social engagement adds an additional layer of enjoyment and connection among players.

Check out Nildo's Resources:

https://contexto.me/
https://github.com/nildo
https://x.com/nildojunior
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nildojr/

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(01:25) - Nildo Jr.'s Gaming Preferences
(01:59) - The Social Aspect of Gaming
(06:34) - Living in Norway
(08:36) - Creating Contexto and Daydash
(20:10) - The Popularity and Impact of Contexto
(23:44) - Discovering a Passion for Computers
(24:17) - Educational Journey and Career Beginnings
(24:46) - The Importance of Education
(26:40) - The Role of Curiosity and Luck
(27:52) - Challenges and Rewards of Game Development
(30:54) - The Power of Sharing and Social Media
(33:18) - Popularity and User Behavior
(36:17) - Transition to Full-Time Game Development
(38:15) - Design Philosophy and New Games
(42:24) - Handling Feedback and User Interaction
(44:30) - Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Scoring Like Hell: Garry Schyman

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Garry Schyman, a renowned composer for film, television, and video games. Garry shares insights from his prolific career, discusses the intricacies of game scoring, and offers valuable advice on creativity and composing. He also delves into his experiences teaching at USC, the impact of AI on the music industry, and the joy of working on games like Bioshock and Dante’s Inferno. This episode is a deep dive into the world of game music composition and the evolving landscape of the industry.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Always Do Your Best Work: Garry highlights the importance of always putting your best effort into every project, as you never know who will hear it and what opportunities might come from it.
Understanding the Project's Needs: Learn how Garry navigates the process of defining the musical needs for a game or film, balancing client expectations with creative experimentation.
AI as a Tool or Threat: Understand Garry’s perspective on the role of AI in music composition, seeing it as a possible tool for creativity but also a threat to traditional compositional work.
Teaching and Mentoring: Appreciate the value of mentorship and education through Garry’s experiences teaching aspiring composers at USC.
Scoring Hell: Enjoy intriguing stories from Garry's career, like the unique experience of scoring for Dante’s Inferno and recording at the famed Abbey Road Studios.

Check out Garry's Resources:

https://garryschyman.com/
https://www.facebook.com/garry.schyman
http://www.youtube.com/@garryschyman99

(00:00) - Introduction to Creative Principles
(00:53) - Welcome to Hey Good Game Podcast
(01:59) - Meet Gary Scheiman: Composer Extraordinaire
(03:14) - Gary's Favorite Games
(04:19) - Teaching at USC and Game Scoring Insights
(07:55) - The Evolution of Game Music
(17:04) - The Bioshock Sound: A Unique Challenge
(26:28) - Misconceptions About Composers
(26:56) - The Composing Process and Tools
(28:42) - AI's Impact on Music Composition
(36:00) - Conducting at Abbey Road
(38:28) - Advice for Aspiring Composers
(45:34) - Future Projects and Career Reflections
(47:22) - Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Behind the Scenes with Hey, Good Game (and a Simple Request)

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Nate Kadlac and Aaron Kardell reflect on the past 18 months of building the business and podcast.

They share insights into their journey, including their bootstrapping philosophy, ad partner experiments, and the expansion of their content. The duo discusses their favorite games, the importance of maintaining control by avoiding venture capital, and their continuous efforts to respond to user feedback and improve their games.

They also highlight the diversity of recent podcast guests and invite listeners to suggest future guests and provide reviews to help the podcast grow.

Check out Hey GG's games and links:
https://www.hey.gg/

(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
(00:56) - Current Games We're Playing
(05:11) - Behind the Scenes at Hey Good Game
(06:31) - User Feedback and Improvements
(10:11) - Growth and Team Dynamics
(19:28) - Advertising Strategies and Insights
(24:54) - Podcast Journey and Future Plans
(27:44) - Conclusion and Call to Action

Check out our brainy games:

The Art of Voice Acting in Video Games and the AI Challenge with Keythe Farley

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Keythe talks about the resurgence of pinball games, his favorite video games over the years, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the industry. The conversation delves into the ethical implications of AI, voice cloning, and the importance of fair compensation for voice actors.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Keythe shares his history with video games, from his early days playing pinball and arcade games like Pac-Man to more recent titles like Tomb Raider and Red Dead Redemption.
Keythe shares personal anecdotes and reflections, offering a holistic view of the life of a voice actor. His experiences illustrate the passion and dedication required to succeed in this field.
Reflecting on his experiences in motion capture and performance capture, Keythe highlights how these technologies enhance storytelling but also bring additional challenges for actors to accurately convey physical and emotional nuances.

Keythe shares insights on:

Voice acting for video games involves understanding and performing for multiple storylines and outcomes simultaneously.
Every project can have a different recording schedule.
Successful voice acting requires both technical skills (like clear enunciation) and emotional availability, as actors rely solely on their voice to convey the full depth of their character.
The industry is constantly evolving, and voice actors need to stay updated with new technologies and methodologies while ensuring fair compensation and ethical considerations.

Check out Keythe's Resources:
https://www.keythefarley.com/
https://x.com/faronear
https://www.facebook.com/keythe
https://www.instagram.com/keythefarley
https://open.spotify.com/show/1tMpjVHdCIiHTfdQkWFeja

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(01:36) - Meet Keythe Farley
(02:32) - Keythe's Gaming Journey
(06:43) - The Evolution of Voice Acting in Games
(11:12) - Challenges of Voice Acting in Video Games
(16:17) - Recording Techniques and Actor's Flexibility
(23:08) - Multiple Roles and Atmospheric Voices
(24:21) - Exploring Diverse Voice Acting Roles
(25:38) - The Creative Process in Game Development
(27:46) - AI's Impact on the Entertainment Industry
(29:16) - Ethical Considerations and AI in Voice Acting
(35:33) - The Future of AI in Sports and Entertainment
(42:38) - Personal Insights and Tools for Voice Acting
(45:22) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

How I Became the Flute Guy for Video Games

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Josh Plotner is a renowned musician, producer, and arranger known for his work in films, TV, and video games. Based in New York, Josh has been a freelance musician for over a decade, specializing as a saxophonist and woodwind multi-instrumentalist.

At age three, Josh's journey began with a passion for saxophone, eventually expanding to other woodwind instruments. His versatility led him to Broadway, where he currently subs for The Lion King, playing 13 different flutes. This experience sparked his interest in world flutes, leading to a vast collection of instruments from various cultures.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How Josh transitioned from Broadway to video game music
The unique challenges and opportunities in video game music composition
Josh's approach to remote recording and building an online presence
The importance of flexibility and communication when working with clients
How Josh creates educational content to fill gaps in online resources for niche instruments

Josh shares insights on:

The similarities between flutes from different cultures
The impact of 3D printing on instrument manufacturing
Strategies for succeeding in the music industry, including networking and specialization

Check out Josh's Resources:
https://www.joshplotnermusic.com/

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(01:19) - Meet Josh Plotner: Multi-Instrumentalist Extraordinaire
(02:00) - Josh's Favorite Games and Musical Inspirations
(03:17) - The Magic of Woodwind Instruments in Gaming
(06:20) - Challenges and Joys of Playing the Shakuhachi
(09:48) - Josh's Musical Journey: From Saxophone to Broadway
(18:16) - Breaking into Video Game Music
(23:30) - Navigating Client Communication Challenges
(24:12) - The E-commerce Approach to Music Services
(24:47) - Adapting to Remote Work During the Pandemic
(25:31) - Building an Informative and Engaging Website
(27:44) - Educating Clients Without Talking Down
(28:46) - The Intersection of Social Media and Client Generation
(29:17) - Filling Gaps in Online Music Education
(31:49) - The Power of Deadlines for Creativity
(32:55) - Passion-Driven Content Creation
(40:58) - The Challenges of Being a Generalist Musician
(42:06) - Embracing Negative Feedback as a Sign of Success
(43:46) - How to Connect with Josh Plotner

Check out our brainy games:

How to Build and Launch Successful Web Games Using AI

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Daniel Tait is a prolific indie game developer who has created several popular puzzle games, including Mathler, CrossWordle, and Sumplete. Despite not considering himself a professional programmer, Daniel has a knack for quickly building and launching games that capture players' attention.

In this episode, we explore Daniel's journey from tinkering with games as a kid to becoming a successful indie developer.

He shares insights on:

How he created Mathler, his breakout hit inspired by Wordle, using an open-source clone and basic math equations
His approach to rapidly prototyping and launching games, often spending just a weekend to get an MVP out
Leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT to overcome technical challenges and generate unique puzzles
The pros and cons of selling some of his most popular games
His latest project, WordNerd.co, which aims to be a hub for word game enthusiasts

You'll learn:

Why Daniel prefers to launch games quickly and imperfectly rather than polishing them extensively
How he uses domain name availability to influence game ideas (23 Words came from 23words.com being available!)
His simple but effective launch strategy using Hacker News and Reddit
The importance of building games you enjoy playing yourself
Check out Daniel's Resources:
https://wordnerd.co/
23words.com
https://killercrossword.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-tait/
Contact:
heynerd@wordnerd.co
--
- (00:00) - Introduction to Game Development
- (00:41) - Welcome to the Hey Good Game Podcast
- (02:21) - Interview with Daniel Tait
- (03:24) - Daniel's Gaming Background
- (06:57) - The Creation of Mathler
- (08:52) - Launching and Promoting Mathler
- (10:16) - Daniel's Game Development Philosophy
- (19:46) - Monetization Strategies
- (21:48) - Acquisition by Hey Good Game
- (23:15) - Exploring AI-Assisted Game Development
- (23:25) - Creating a Puzzle Game with ChatGPT
- (24:07) - Developing and Testing the Game
- (25:44) - Using AI for Game Development
- (26:35) - The Joy of Building Games
- (30:57) - Balancing Game Development and Personal Life
- (37:19) - Launching and Promoting New Games
- (41:00) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Developers
--
Check out our brainy games:
Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com

One Game a Week: Two Years of Non-Stop Creation

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Gabe Cornish is a game creator with over 40 published games on itch.io and a decade of experience in the game industry. He's worked on hit mobile titles like Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery at Jam City and more recently at Paradox Interactive. Gabe is passionate about making game development more accessible and sustainable for creators.

In this episode, we explore Gabe's journey in game development and his unique perspective on creating games for fun rather than profit. He shares insights on:

• Make games regularly, even if they're small and imperfect, to maintain enthusiasm and improve skills
• Don't judge your creations too harshly - you never know what will resonate with players
• Consider freeware development as a sustainable way to weather industry uncertainty
• Look for alternative monetization methods like Patreon to support ongoing creative work

Check out Gabe's Resources:
https://gabrielcornish.com/
https://gabrielcornish.itch.io/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielcornish

Check out our brainy games:

Bootstrapping Chess.com Into 10 million Daily Players

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Eric Allebest, co-founder and CEO of Chess.com, joins the podcast to discuss how he's revolutionized the world of online chess. With 5-10 million daily players and nearly $100 million in annual revenue, Chess.com has become the go-to platform for chess enthusiasts worldwide.

Eric shares his journey from e-commerce to building a chess empire, starting with Schoolhouse Chess and Wholesale Chess before launching Chess.com. He reveals how the company has weathered surges and plateaus in popularity, including the massive boost from Netflix's "The Queen's Gambit."

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How Chess.com changed the definition of who can be a chess player, vastly expanding the market
• The importance of balancing community, content, and product in building a successful gaming platform
• Why streaming and content creation have been crucial to Chess.com's growth strategy
• How the company navigates the challenges of running a complex gaming ecosystem

Check out Erik's Resources:
https://www.chess.com/
https://x.com/chesscom
https://www.tiktok.com/@chess
https://www.chesscomshop.com/
https://www.instagram.com/wwwchesscom/
https://www.youtube.com/user/wwwChesscom

(00:00) - The Transferability of Chess.com to Other Games
(00:29) - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(02:12) - Eric Allebest's Journey with Chess.com
(03:28) - The Popularity and Growth of Chess.com
(04:20) - Eric's Favorite Games and Gaming Preferences
(07:05) - The Psychology of Chess and Player Behavior
(09:16) - Eric's Early Life and Introduction to Games
(10:31) - The Birth of Chess.com and E-commerce Challenges
(13:24) - The Evolution of Gaming and Content Integration
(16:33) - The Role of Design and Branding in Chess.com
(22:57) - The Impact of Streaming on Chess Popularity
(25:17) - Engaging with Non-Top Players
(26:05) - Streamers and the Element of Competition
(27:36) - Celebrity Collaborations and Vulnerability
(30:14) - The Changing Media Landscape
(31:20) - Chess and Other Traditional Games
(34:11) - Impact of The Queen's Gambit
(37:06) - Media and Entertainment in Chess
(47:17) - Onboarding New Users to Chess.com
(49:42) - Reflections on Chess and Life
(51:19) - Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Building Word Games Without Frameworks With Cassidy Williams

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Cassidy Williams is a prolific content creator, developer advocate, and builder. Aaron Kardell and Joseph Rueter discuss Jumblie—a word game inspired by a coding challenge—and Cassidy's previous games.

Cassidy shares her journey, the influence of her time in Spain, SEO, her love for board games like Agricola and Civ 6, and her stint as a mascot at Iowa State University.

Check out Cassidy's Resources:
https://jumblie.com
https://cassidoo.co
https://x.com/cassidoo
https://github.com/cassidoo
https://www.patreon.com/cassidoo
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassidoo/
--

(00:00) - Introduction and SEO Nerd Talk
(00:29) - Interview with Cassidy Williams
(00:51) - Cassidy's Journey with Jumblie
(03:17) - Cassidy's Favorite Games
(04:41) - General Mills Internship Experience
(06:07) - College Mascot Adventures
(09:33) - Living in Spain
(13:47) - SEO and Scooby Doo
(15:46) - Founding Cosigned
(21:23) - The Birth of Contenda
(21:57) - AI Tools Before the Hype
(22:34) - Challenges and Pivots
(23:11) - The Brain Story Tool
(24:06) - The End of Contenda
(24:57) - Switching to Gaming
(25:21) - Creating 13 Potions
(29:40) - The Jumblie Journey
(40:45) - Challenges of Puzzle Editing
(43:35) - Future of Jumblie and Final Thoughts

Check out our brainy games:

How to Build a Successful Art Career by Embracing Creative Selfishness

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Peter Mohrbacher, creator of Angelarium, emphasizes the importance of creating art for yourself rather than trying to please others or meet market expectations. He argues that the best art comes from a place of "creative selfishness" - following your own obsessions and interests without worrying about external validation. This approach has allowed him to maintain a unique artistic voice while building a successful business around his personal project. However, he acknowledges that this path isn't for everyone, as many artists struggle with the business side of self-publishing and marketing their work.

Check out Peter's Resources:
https://www.angelarium.net
https://angelarium.shop
https://www.patreon.com/angelarium
https://x.com/bugmeyer
https://bugmeyer.tumblr.com/
https://www.facebook.com/angelarium
https://www.pinterest.com/petemohrbacher/

(00:00) - Introduction to AI Prompting
(00:26) - Welcome to Hey Good Game Podcast
(00:42) - Interview with Peter Mohrbacher
(02:08) - Peter's Favorite Game: Elden Ring
(05:54) - The Art of Angelarium
(19:15) - Challenges of Sharing Art Online
(27:04) - Embracing Creative Obsessions
(28:10) - Balancing Art and Business
(29:00) - Challenges in the Art Business
(32:38) - Gamifying Social Media and Marketing
(35:00) - Corporate Exploitation in the Art World
(37:33) - Venturing into Tabletop RPGs
(41:39) - Navigating Patreon and Crowdfunding
(48:58) - Scams and Online Security
(54:42) - Conclusion and Future Projects

Check out our brainy games:

How to Create a Viral Puzzle Game From Scratch

Aaron Kardell — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Greg Karber is the creator of the hit murder mystery puzzle game Murdle. Greg shares the fascinating journey of Murdle's creation, from a simple puzzle made for a friend to a bestselling book series and popular daily online game.

We dive into Greg's influences, how he monetizes Murdle, and the balance between game mechanics and storytelling.

Check out Greg's Resources:
https://murdle.com/
https://murdle.com/book/
https://x.com/gregkarber
https://discord.gg/kmyFvXJ44s
https://www.reddit.com/r/murdle/
https://www.tiktok.com/@gtkarber
https://www.instagram.com/gregkarber/
https://bsky.app/profile/gtkarber.bsky.social
http://killerpartymusical.com/

Check out our brainy games:

Sumplete - https://sumplete.com
Kakuro Conquest - https://kakuroconquest.com
Mathler - https://mathler.com
Crosswordle - https://crosswordle.com
Sudoku Conquest - https://sudokuconquest.com
Hitori Conquest - https://hitoriconquest.com
Wordga - https://wordga.com
Squeezy - https://imsqueezy.com/

How to Design Board Games That People Love

Nate Kadlac — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Cole Medeiros' career in game design is driven by passion and authenticity. He started creating games as a child (GUBS in fourth grade) and has successfully transitioned this early interest into a professional career.

His approach emphasizes the importance of genuine enthusiasm for the project, close collaboration with partners (as seen in his work with ConcernedApe), and the ability to balance the creative and business aspects of game development.

Cole's journey showcases how personal passion can lead to successful game creation, from indie board games to working on major titles like Stardew Valley.

Check out Cole's Resources:
https://www.stardewvalley.net/
https://colemedeiros.com/
https://x.com/TheGubsGuy
https://gamemaker.io/en
https://www.tabletopsimulator.com/

Contact
contact@stardewvalley.net

(00:00) - Introduction and Career Reflection
(00:13) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(01:00) - Meet Cole Medeiros: Game Designer Extraordinaire
(01:42) - Discussing Favorite Games and Board Game Design
(04:21) - Designing Games for Different Audiences
(07:23) - Choosing and Developing Game Ideas
(11:30) - User Testing and Publishing Experiences
(13:57) - The Journey of GUBS and Web of Spies
(22:31) - Collaborating on Stardew Valley: The Board Game
(27:32) - Insights on Game Design and Personal Motivation
(37:09) - Current Projects and Future Plans
(39:23) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

How to Design Obsessive Games by Breaking the Rules

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Zach Gage might be one of the most innovative game designers you've never heard of.

He's the creator of Good Sudoku, Really Bad Chess, and 30+ other games that reimagine classic puzzles for the digital age.

Now he's taking on the New York Times with Puzzmo.com

We spent an hour exploring his creative process and the future of puzzle games.

Check out Zach's Resources:
http://www.stfj.net
https://www.puzzmo.com
https://www.playgoodsudoku.com/
http://www.reallybadchess.com/

(00:00) - The First Game Creations
(00:48) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(00:59) - Insights from Zach Gage's Interview
(02:26) - Introducing Zach Gage
(04:18) - Zach's Gaming Preferences and Bag Obsession
(10:25) - Zach's Artistic Family Background
(12:16) - Early Exhibits and Creative Opportunities
(15:40) - Designing Good Sudoku
(23:50) - Creating Really Bad Chess
(26:22) - Struggling with Chess: A New Perspective
(27:54) - The Game Design Process
(29:06) - Challenges in Game Tutorialization
(30:38) - Innovative Game Examples
(34:00) - Building Puzmo: From Concept to Reality
(46:56) - The Role of Community and Distribution
(50:19) - Balancing Business and Creativity
(53:53) - Connecting with the Audience

Check out our brainy games:

How FreeCell Snuck Its Way Into Millions of PCs

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 29: Jim Horne is the creator of Microsoft FreeCell and xwordinfo.com. Jim shares his journey from early programming to joining Microsoft in 1988, where he secretly added FreeCell to Windows.

His passion for crosswords led to writing for the New York Times and developing xwordinfo.com. Jim discusses his time at Microsoft, including sharing an office wall with Steve Ballmer, and the serendipitous nature of his career. He touches on the "unsolvable" FreeCell game and his recent collaboration on "I'm Squeezy." Throughout, Jim highlights the intersection of music and programming, offering insights into early computing, casual games, and the crossword community, demonstrating how pursuing interests can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Check out Jim's resources:
https://www.xwordinfo.com
https://freecell.org/
Wordplay
https://imsqueezy.com

(00:00) - Jim Horne and His Musical Background
(01:44) - Jim Horne's Journey to Microsoft and FreeCell
(03:35) - The Creation and Popularity of FreeCell
(05:11) - Jim's Musical Adventures and Microsoft Theater
(06:41) - Jim's Early Love for Games and Programming
(10:30) - The FreeCell Phenomenon and Shareware Success
(19:22) - Blogging and Crossword Puzzles with The New York Times
(22:29) - Creating XWord Info and the Crossword Community
(28:44) - The Legacy of FreeCell and New Ventures
(34:02) - Advice for Aspiring Game Creators

Check out our brainy games:

Say Yes to Creativity: Tracy Fullerton's 10-Year Project

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 28: Tracy Fullerton is a pioneering game designer, educator, and USC Games Program Director emeritus. The conversation covers Tracy's extensive career in game design, her creation of the game 'Walden,' and her unique approach to blending philosophy with gameplay.

Tracy opens up about the decade-long development of 'Walden,' the challenges and joys of translating Thoreau's philosophies into an immersive experience, and her experiences mentoring the next generation of game designers.

We talk about why you shouldn't say "No," the intricacies of player emotional experience goals, and the importance of being a passionate and generous designer.

Check out Tracy's Resources:
https://www.waldengame.com/
https://www.gameinnovationlab.com/
https://www.thenightjourney.com/
https://www.tracyfullerton.com/
https://gameinnovationlab.itch.io/walden
https://www.gamedesignworkshop.com

(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast
(01:27) - Meet Tracy Fullerton
(04:01) - Tracy's Early Gaming Experiences
(07:58) - The Birth of Spiderdance
(12:44) - Creating Walden, a Game
(20:01) - Challenges and Persistence
(24:44) - Pricing Strategy and Educational Impact
(29:15) - Launching on Multiple Platforms
(29:28) - Impact of COVID on Game Launches
(30:09) - International Reach and Localization Challenges
(31:47) - Player Feedback and Diverse Audience
(32:22) - Teaching First-Person Game Mechanics
(36:28) - The Night Journey Collaboration
(43:01) - Mentoring and Teaching Game Design
(48:37) - Balancing Passion Projects and Career
(52:48) - Game Design Workshop 20th Anniversary
(57:35) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Sega’s Downfall Was… Sega?

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 27: Blake Harris is the acclaimed author of "Console Wars" and "The History of the Future." Blake shares his journey from a struggling screenwriter to a successful author, diving into the intense rivalry between Sega and Nintendo that defined a generation of gaming.

He reveals insights into the internal conflicts at Sega that contributed to their downfall and discusses the revolutionary impact of Oculus and virtual reality on the tech landscape.

Blake also offers a sneak peek into his upcoming book about comedy legend Larry David, creator of "Seinfeld" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm," complete with humorous anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. From the challenges of getting in touch with industry giants like Seth Rogen to the joys and struggles of writing about beloved cultural icons, this episode is packed with compelling stories and valuable lessons on persistence, research, and the art of storytelling.

Check out Blake's Resources:
https://twitter.com/blakejharrisNYC
https://www.amazon.com/Console-Wars-Nintendo-Defined-Generation/
https://www.amazon.com/History-Future-Facebook-Revolution-Virtual/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/author-blake-j-harris-and-the-history-of-the-future/
Console Wars Documentary

(00:00) - Connecting with Seth Rogen: A Game-Changing Experience
(00:33) - Interview with Blake Harris: Insights and Takeaways
(01:38) - Blake Harris's Journey: From Console Wars to New Projects
(04:22) - The Fascinating World of Sega and Nintendo
(07:34) - From Video Games to Authorship: Blake's Path
(20:35) - Challenges and Triumphs in Writing Console Wars
(29:34) - The Impact of Sega's Internal Conflicts
(33:21) - The Oculus Story: A Mind-Blowing Experience
(34:49) - Challenges in VR: Monetization and Market Penetration
(35:58) - The Evolution of VR Hardware
(36:59) - The Search for VR's Killer App
(40:22) - The Social and Practical Applications of VR
(50:31) - The Impact of Politics on Oculus
(54:15) - Larry David: From Seinfeld to Curb Your Enthusiasm
(55:24) - The Joy of Writing About Larry David
(57:59) - Conclusion and Future Projects

Check out our brainy games:

Building Games at the NY Times: Interview With Jeff Petriello

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 26: Jeff Petriello, a game producer at the New York Times and a game design educator at NYU Game Center, shares his unique journey from producing movies to producing games played by millions of people.

Go behind the scenes at the New York Times, learn what it's like to shepherd hits like Wordle, and create games from scratch like Strands.

Working closely with the New Games Squad and the Gameplay Squad, Jeff shares what inspires him, his teaching experiences, and the significant role of games in building social connections.

This episode is filled with valuable insights for aspiring game designers and enthusiasts alike.

Check out Jeff's Social and Resources:
https://www.thebeff.com/
https://www.thepastatarot.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpetriello/
https://gamecenter.nyu.edu/faculty/jeff-petriello/
https://thebeff.itch.io/self-portrait
https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords

(00:00) - Introduction to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(01:39) - Jeff Petriello's Journey to Game Production
(02:43) - Jeff's Current Gaming Favorites and Insights
(05:44) - The Personal Impact of Games on Jeff's Life
(10:44) - Transitioning from Philosophy to Game Design
(24:33) - The Evolution of Teaching Game Design
(30:32) - Jeff's Path to the New York Times
(35:35) - The Evolution of NYT Games: From Crosswords to Wordle
(35:56) - Joining the NYT Games Team and Developing New Hits
(36:36) - The Creative Process Behind NYT's Newest Game, Strands
(39:04) - The Art of Puzzle Creation: A Blend of Technology and Creativity
(40:19) - The Impact of Games on NYT's Subscription Model
(46:43) - Exploring the Buy vs. Build Strategy in Game Development
(56:53) - The Personal Journey: Career Advice and Side Hustles
(01:01:47) - A Tarot Reading to Close: Insights and Reflections

Check out our brainy games:

Aaron Tried To Buy Wordle

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 28 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Right before the New York Times announced they acquired Wordle in the low-mid seven figures, Aaron attempted to buy Wordle, and wordle.com. Listen to Aaron's story on why he started building games, and how that led to his attempt to purchase the popular daily word game that took the world by storm.

How close did he get? Listen and find out!

(00:00) - Introduction to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(01:17) - The Unstoppable Rise of Wordle
(02:12) - Aaron's Journey into Game Development
(06:38) - The Evolution of Online Game Monetization
(13:24) - The Attempt to Acquire Wordle
(29:14) - Reflections and the Future of Daily Brainy Games

Check out our brainy games:

How Canuckle Became a Canadian Favourite

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 21 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 24: In this episode, explores the journey of Mark and Jeff Rogers, creators of Canuckle and Canoku games, inspired by Wordle. It delves into their background, game development process, hiatus, renewal with added features, community engagement strategies, collaborations with other game creators and notable organizations, partnerships for sponsorships and merchandise, future plans, and potential partnerships with entities like the New York Times' Wordle. The discussion also includes their use of AI, philanthropic endeavors, and lessons learned in promoting their games.

Check out Mark and Jeff Rogers' Games and Resources:
Canuckle: www.canucklegame.ca
Canoku: www.canoku.ca
X/Twitter: x.com/canucklegame
FB: www.facebook.com/CanuckleGame
IG: www.instagram.com/canucklegame
Merch: merch.canucklegame.ca

Collaborations:
Waffle: waffle.canucklegame.ca
Squaredle: squaredle.canucklegame.ca
Nerdle: nerdle.canucklegame.ca

Reach out:
info@canucklegame.ca

--

(00:00) - The Genesis of Canuckle: A Wordle-Inspired Creation
(00:38) - Welcome to Hey, Good Game Podcast
(00:53) - Insights from Canuckle's Creators: Collaboration and Breaks
(02:05) - Introducing Canuckle and Kanoku: Canadian-Themed Daily Games
(02:42) - The Creators' Gaming Backgrounds and Inspirations
(03:47) - The Competitive Spirit Behind Canuckle's Creation
(07:13) - From Concept to Launch: The Journey of Canuckle
(08:12) - Challenges and Triumphs in Developing Canuckle
(13:38) - Fostering Community and Engagement Through Canuckle
(15:26) - The Evolution of Canuckle: From Launch to Revamp
(20:52) - Exploring Merchandise and Monetization Strategies
(23:05) - Future Plans and Monetization Insights
(24:28) - Exploring the CIRA Partnership and Monthly Puzzles
(26:27) - Creative Sponsorship and Game Design Insights
(27:08) - Expanding the Game Portfolio with Canadian Themes
(30:22) - Leveraging Partnerships for Cross-Promotion and Growth
(38:36) - Innovative Use of AI and Exploring New Technologies
(41:16) - The Decision Against Mobile Apps and Embracing Web Accessibility
(43:11) - Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement
(46:58) - Giving Back Through Canuckle and Future Plans

Check out our brainy games:

Crafting Delight With Words

Joseph Rueter, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 14 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 23: In this episode, we dive deep into the creative process behind the game WordPeaks with its creator, Devin Spikowski. Discover the inspirations, design decisions, and the unique journey from concept to a game enjoyed by thousands.

Check out Devin's Games and Resources:
https://vegeta897.github.io/word-peaks/

https://twitter.com/vegeta897
https://github.com/vegeta897
https://cohost.org/vegeta897
https://vegeta897.carrd.co/
https://mastodon.gamedev.place/@vegeta897

(00:00) - Kicking Off with Devin of WordPeaks
(00:12) - Introducing the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(00:22) - Diving Into WordPeaks: A Unique Word Game
(01:33) - Exploring the Artistic Side of Game Development
(02:10) - A Deep Dive with Devin Spikowski: The Creator's Journey
(02:54) - The Creative Process Behind WordPeaks
(03:18) - Gaming Influences and the Path to Game Development
(13:26) - The Evolution of WordPeaks: From Concept to Game Enhancements
(21:45) - Leveraging Feedback and Building a Community
(25:01) - The Challenges and Rewards of Game Development
(33:09) - Exploring New Projects and Future Plans
(35:12) - Monetization Strategies and Keeping the Game Accessible
(37:36) - Wrapping Up: Where to Find Devin and WordPeaks

Check out our brainy games:

The Beauty of Games With Frank Lantz

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 07 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 22: This conversation features a deep and insightful discussion with Frank Lantz, the director of the New York University Game Center and an award-winning game designer. Throughout the interview, Lantz explores the intricate relationship between games, culture, and education, highlighting how games can serve as a potent medium for both artistic expression and intellectual challenge.

Check out Frank's Games and Resources:
“The Beauty of Games” - A book by Frank Lantz
Universal Paperclips - A game by Frank Lantz

https://twitter.com/flantz
https://www.franklantz.net/
https://www.franklantz.net/work
https://www.linkedin.com/in/franklantz/

Resources Mentioned:
Balatro - Mentioned as a current favorite game of Frank Lantz.
Portal - Highlighted as possibly the funniest and one of the greatest games, with contributions from Eric Wolpaw.
Disco Elysium - Cited as an example of excellent narrative in games.
Kentucky Route Zero - Mentioned for its narrative focus.
The Stanley Parable and The Beginner's Guide
GeoGuessr

(00:00) - Exploring Comedy's Influence in Game Design
(00:31) - Welcome to Hey, Good Game Podcast
(00:54) - Post-Interview Reflections and Takeaways
(02:09) - Deep Dive with Frank Lantz: A Gaming Luminary
(03:36) - The Art and Challenge of Comedy in Games
(05:14) - Navigating the Addictive Nature of Games
(07:40) - Universal Paperclips: Designing for Disengagement
(26:18) - The Role of Narrative and Writing in Games
(31:12) - Games as Social and Cultural Artifacts
(33:53) - Exploring the Social Impact of Gaming
(34:21) - The Art of Taste and Social Connections in Cooking vs. Gaming
(34:39) - The Evolution of Gaming Communities and Cultural Shifts
(36:06) - The Founding and Philosophy of the NYU Game Center
(37:53) - Teaching Game Design as a Creative Discipline
(39:16) - Games as Cultural Forms and Their Deep Connection to Computer Science
(39:49) - The Intricacies of Game Design and Its Historical Significance
(40:51) - Finding Joy and Social Exchange in Sports and Games
(42:30) - Bridging Generational Gaps in Gaming Understanding
(46:47) - The Fascination with Watching Games and eSports
(51:41) - The Intellectual Depth of Bridge and Its Cultural Phenomenon
(57:42) - Envisioning the Future of Games and Their Role in Society
(01:05:28) - The Journey of Games Towards a Richer Cultural Spectrum
(01:06:01) - Closing Thoughts and Where to Find More

Check out our brainy games:

Sell or Scale? The Strategic Sale of Semantle

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 21: David Turner created Semantle.com, a unique word-guessing game focusing on semantic relationships. Turner shares insights on his journey from ideation to acquisition, his creative process, and upcoming projects like a graphical adventure game. We also chat about game design challenges, user testing, creativity in game development, and effective marketing strategies.

Check out David's games and links:
https://semantle.com/
https://twitter.com/SemantleGame
https://games.novalis.org/
https://middlesgame.com/
novalis@novalis.org

--

(00:00) - Kicking Off with a Creative Idea
(00:16) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(01:33) - Deep Dive with David Turner: The Mind Behind Semantle
(02:15) - Exploring David's Favorite Games and Creative Hobbies
(04:38) - The Genesis of Semantle: From Concept to Viral Sensation
(05:36) - David's Unique Game Design Process and Programming Journey
(18:13) - Navigating the Complexities of Game Difficulty and Player Engagement
(21:12) - Exploring Game Design and Puzzle Complexity
(21:52) - The Art of Puzzle Testing and Design Insights
(24:28) - Challenges and Strategies in Game Difficulty
(28:38) - Monetization and the Decision to Sell a Game
(31:21) - Creative Process and Future Projects
(33:08) - Advice for Aspiring Game Developers
(39:46) - Launching New Games and Marketing Strategies
(43:07) - Reflections and Future Plans

Check out our brainy games:

Shaping Words with Grant Warman: The Story of Polygonle

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 20: Grant Warman, the creator of Polygonle and Quadragonal word games, discussing the game mechanics, user feedback, collaboration with other games, and plans for future projects.

Check out Grant's games and links:
https://polygonle.com/
https://quadragonle.com/
https://www.reddit.com/r/polygonle/
https://discord.gg/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Polygonle
https://twitter.com/PolygonleGame

--

(00:00) - Words of Wisdom for New Game Creators
(01:43) - Deep Dive into Polygonle with Grant Warman
(02:42) - The Competitive World of Super Smash Brothers
(06:08) - Exploring the Mechanics of Chess and Smash
(09:59) - The Genesis of Polygonle: From Idea to Game
(12:58) - Mastering Polygonle: Strategies and Game Modes
(15:31) - Evolving Game Design: Feedback and Iterations
(16:46) - Collaboration and Community in Game Development
(18:22) - Monetizing Your Game: Ads and Premium Offerings
(19:06) - Transitioning from Corporate to Game Development
(20:06) - The Genesis of Polygonle and Its Growth
(22:19) - Advice for Aspiring Game Developers
(24:34) - Navigating the Fine Line Between Inspiration and Imitation
(30:38) - Introducing Quadragonle: A New Puzzle Challenge
(34:08) - Engaging with the Gaming Community for Feedback
(36:36) - Behind the Scenes: Game Development Insights
(38:04) - Exploring User Engagement and Game Mechanics
(39:58) - Final Thoughts and Where to Find Grant Online

Check out our brainy games:

Waffle: How this game reached 500k daily players

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 19: James Robinson runs the ever-popular game, Wafflegame.net. In his first-ever podcast, he shares the history of Waffle, where it is headed, and how it has reached 500,000 daily players.

James discusses the game's design, user feedback, and the human-centric approach to game creation. Themes include his accidental success, and the future plans for Waffle Studio.

Check out James's games and links:
https://wafflegame.net
https://www.facebook.com/wafflegame
https://www.threads.net/@thatwafflegame
https://twitter.com/thatwafflegame

--

(00:00) - Opening Remarks and Podcast Introduction
(00:25) - Reflections on Interview with James Robinson
(01:46) - Introducing James Robinson and Waffle Studio
(02:40) - James Robinson's Gaming Favorites and Influences
(03:50) - Early Programming Experiences and Creative Beginnings
(05:59) - The Journey from Hobbyist to Game Developer
(07:45) - Design Philosophy Behind Waffle
(10:59) - Curating Puzzles: The Blend of Algorithm and Creativity
(16:24) - Player Engagement and Feedback Insights
(19:06) - Exploring New Game Ideas and Future Plans
(22:41) - Reflecting on Offers to Sell Waffle and Future Aspirations
(30:26) - Engaging with the Gaming Community and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
(33:03) - Exploring Game Crossovers and Collaborations
(34:40) - The Genesis of Collaborative Projects
(36:24) - The Viral Journey of Waffle: From Launch to Popularity
(42:38) - Navigating Trademarks and Copycats in Game Development
(45:18) - Monetization Strategies and the Shift to Ads
(48:28) - Expanding into Mobile Apps and Future Plans
(54:02) - Building a Game Studio and Community Engagement
(01:00:05) - Advice for Aspiring Game Developers
(01:02:50) - Embracing AI in Game Development

Check out our brainy games:

“It's either Minesweeper or smoking, I can't write if I have to give up both.”

Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 18: Today's episode join me and lets explore the fascinating journey of Minesweeper through an interview with Damien Moore, the visionary behind MinesweeperGame.com. Delve into the origins of Minesweeper, the celebrities who played this game, its evolution, strategic gameplay, online community, and the intricate mathematics that define this beloved game.

Check out Damien's games and links:
https://minesweepergame.com/
https://minesweepergame.com/forum/

--

(00:00) - Introduction to the Hey, Good Game Podcast
(01:43) - Diving Deep into Minesweeper's History and Community
(02:46) - Damien Moore: The Finer Miner's Journey
(04:55) - The Evolution of Minesweeper and Its Competitive Scene
(13:00) - The Technical Side of Competitive Minesweeper
(21:43) - Minesweeper's Cultural Impact and Future Directions
(25:57) - The Evolution of Minesweeper: From Mainframes to Microsoft
(28:45) - A Personal Journey into the World of Minesweeper
(28:59) - Microsoft's Strategic Move with Minesweeper and the Windows Entertainment Pack
(29:45) - The Creative Process and Legal Challenges Behind Minesweeper
(38:24) - The Cultural Impact and Mathematical Intrigue of Minesweeper
(48:09) - The Future of Minesweeper: Archiving History and Embracing Community
(48:51) - The Dream Board Phenomenon and Its Impact on Minesweeper Rankings
(54:14) - Closing Thoughts and Where to Find More on Minesweeper

Check out our brainy games:

GDC Unplugged: Our First Trip to the Game Developer Conference

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Hey, Good Game podcast hosts Nate Kadlac and Aaron Kardell attend the GDC conference in San Francisco for the first time. They share their experiences at the event, interactions with different booths, and their plans for potential future participation.

Check out Hey GG's games and links:

https://www.hey.gg/
https://lilsnack.co/
https://poki.com/
https://www.coolmathgames.com/

(00:00) - Welcome to the Hey, Good Game Podcast!
(00:27) - First Impressions of GDC: Diving into the Deep End
(00:48) - The Vibrant Community and Networking Opportunities
(01:19) - Exploring the Magnitude of GDC and Casual Gaming Conversations
(02:56) - Discovering Niche Interests: Braining Games at GDC
(05:39) - Innovative Game Testing with Poki.com
(08:24) - Highlights from the Show Floor: Epic, Discord, and Retro Gaming
(10:47) - The Growing Influence of GDC and Future Plans
(12:51) - Wrapping Up: Reflections and Looking Ahead

Check out our brainy games:

From Crosswords to Squeezy: Jeff Chen's Creative Adventure

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 16: Today's episode features an interview with Jeff Chen, the creator of the new game Squeezy, discussing his journey in creating the game, his experience in puzzle making and writing, including the challenges and successes. Jeff also shares his writing experience and the upcoming puzzle book collaboration with Stuart Gibbs. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, listening to feedback, and living with frustration for aspiring game creators.

Check out the games and resources from this episode:

https://imsqueezy.com/
https://www.jeffchenwrites.com/
https://www.xwordinfo.com/
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(00:00) - The Journey of a Game Developer: From Ideas to Reality
(03:35) - The Making of a Crossword Puzzle Master
(10:18) - Exploring the World of Puzzles Beyond Crosswords
(19:44) - The Birth of Squeezy: A New Puzzle Game Adventure
(24:24) - Iterating Game Design: From Prototypes to Feedback
(25:16) - The Challenge of Implementing New Features
(25:25) - Navigating Player Feedback and Making Adjustments
(27:16) - The Creative Process Behind Squeezy's Puzzles
(29:28) - Ensuring Unique Solutions in Game Design
(32:30) - The Origin and Evolution of Squeezy's Theme
(35:05) - Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement
(37:41) - Exploring Future Ambitions and Potential Partnerships
(38:46) - Transitioning from Game Design to Writing
(44:33) - Daily Life: Balancing Game Development and Writing
(46:59) - Advice for Aspiring Game Creators

Check out our brainy games:

Will Sudoku ever be stopped?

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 15: In today's episode features an interview with Jeff Widderich, the president of Syndicated Puzzles, who discusses his background, experience on Dragon's Den, game creation, the challenges faced in the puzzle industry, and the future of game design. Widderich shares insights on the importance of spatial thinking, the necessity for new and innovative puzzles, the competitive nature of puzzles, and the potential for multi-solution puzzles. He emphasizes the need for game designers to remain independent and the significance of creativity in puzzle design. Additionally, he addresses the influence of trends, the struggle to break through in the game industry, and his perspectives on the Sudoku industry. Widderich also discusses geographic influences on his business and expresses his desire for new energy and innovation in the puzzle market.

Check out the games and resources from this episode:

http://syndicatedpuzzles.com/
https://www.str8ts.com/
https://sudokuwiki.org/

(00:00) - The Art of Negotiation and Podcast Introduction
(01:32) - Diving Deep with Jeff Widerich: The Puzzle Visionary
(02:18) - The Birth of Straights: A Puzzle Revolution
(04:59) - Collaboration and Innovation: The Making of Straights
(07:49) - From Art to Games: Jeff's Creative Journey
(12:55) - Board Games vs. Sheet Puzzles: A Comparative Analysis
(16:25) - The Architectural Mind Behind Game Design
(22:05) - Syndicated Puzzles: A Journey Through App Development
(26:04) - Discovering Talent and Preparing for Dragon's Den
(26:32) - A Unique Approach on Dragon's Den
(29:34) - The Aftermath of Dragon's Den Success
(32:27) - The Importance of Timing in Game Design
(36:28) - Navigating the Puzzle Industry's Challenges
(43:51) - Advice for Aspiring Game Creators
(45:39) - The Future of Game Design: Multi-Solution Puzzles
(51:14) - The Struggle for Innovation in Puzzle Publishing

Check out our brainy games:

Nerdle: The Math Game Bill Gates Loves to Play

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Today we're excited to sit down with Richard Mann, the CEO and founder of Nerdle, a math game similar to Wordle. Richard discusses the development of Nerdle, the challenges of creating math games that are fun for kids, the game's advertising model, the launch of a new game called 2D Nerdle, and the importance of user feedback.

We also dive into how Nerdle is run as a family operation, and why many of the ideas for the game happen over dinner.

Check out Richard's website:

https://nerdlegame.com/
https://www.leaderboardle.com/
https://x.com/nerdlegame

(02:02) - Introducing Richard Mann, the CEO and Founder of Nerdle
(02:33) - Understanding the Game Nerdle
(03:12) - Richard Mann's Journey and Love for Games
(04:55) - Richard's Career Path and Transition into Gaming
(07:26) - The Creation of Nerdle and its Variants
(08:39) - Contrasting B2B Business with Nerdle
(11:58) - Bill Gates' Endorsement of Nerdle
(14:57) - Designing and Branding Nerdle
(20:53) - Passion for Nerdle and It's Impact
(21:10) - The Evolution and Variety of Nerdle Games
(22:36) - Balancing Business and User Engagement
(23:41) - The Popularity of Classic Nerdle and Other Games
(25:24) - Making Math Fun: The Nerdle Approach
(27:25) - Nerdle's Impact in Schools and Charitable Initiatives
(28:22) - The Process of Validating New Game Ideas
(30:57) - Engaging with the Nerdle Community for Feedback
(36:37) - The Role of Advertising in Nerdle's Business Model
(40:14) - Introducing the Latest Game: 2D Nerdle

Check out our brainy games:

BONUS: How To Earn a Living From Your Game, How Game Creators are Using AI, and more

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0800

We're back with Joseph, Nate, and Aaron! They discuss the past 12 episodes of the podcasts, what stood out from our conversations, how game creators earn a living from their games, and the differences between creators.

The conversation ends with reflections on the progress of their business, Hey Good Game, and its growth strategy in buying and building games.

Check out Hey GG's games and links:

https://www.hey.gg/

(00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Improvements
(00:24) - Reflecting on the Journey and Guest Experiences
(01:27) - The Impact of Games and Their Creators
(02:11) - Behind the Scenes: Reaching Out to Game Creators
(03:07) - The Decision to Start a Podcast
(05:07) - Dream Guests and Memorable Conversations
(12:18) - Exploring Different Business Models in Gaming
(16:25) - The Serendipity of Game Creation
(18:43) - Improving the Podcast: Reflections and Future Plans
(27:25) - Building and Buying Games: A Business Perspective
(32:59) - Current Gaming Interests

Check out our brainy games:

How Lil Snack is Redefining Daily Games

Aaron Kardell, Nate Kadlac — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Lil Snack is a new daily game platform created by Eric Berman and Travis Chen. They talk about their approach to creating a new game every day with the desire to be an app recommended by friends in text messages. They credit AI for their ability to be nimble, noting that the technology helps with the middle part of their creative process such as research and creating the specific puzzle format. The conversation reveals the journey of Eric and Travis from building games to launching Lilsnack and highlights various aspects of their startup like maintaining low friction in game access, leveraging ephemeral gaming experiences, incorporating user feedback, and their strategy for monetization.

Check out Lil Snack's games and links:

www.lilsnack.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilsnackdaily/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lilsnackdaily

(00:00) - Introduction and Overview
(00:29) - Interview Reflections and Insights
(03:17) - Favorite Games and Gaming Background
(05:14) - The Journey of Founding a Company
(08:35) - The Birth of Lilsnack
(10:40) - The Philosophy Behind Lilsnack
(11:01) - The Role of Investment and the Unique Approach of Lilsnack
(24:11) - The Journey of Iteration and Feedback
(24:35) - Behind the Scenes: Game Development and AI
(26:04) - The Power of AI in Game Development
(27:14) - The Role of AI in Content Creation
(29:45) - The Future of Little Snack: Collaborations and Expansion
(36:49) - The Structure and Future of the Team
(40:39) - The Decision to Stay Web-Based
(43:50) - Monetization Strategies and Future Plans
(46:04) - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

Kings, Pawns, and Coders: Turning Passion into Chessworld.net

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Our recent chat with the creators of ChessWorld pushes the edges on what you might know about correspondence-style Chess as a game. Tryfon (aka Kingscrusher) and his brother Nick share how maintaining ChessWorld allows them to pursue a passion for playing chess while also earning a living. They talk about how Tryfon’s enjoyment of chess guided the development of the platform, his approach to running Chessworld.net on an ad-free, subscription-based model, and how his experiences in online gaming have influenced his strategies and learning in chess.

Check out Tryfon's Website and Socials:

Chessworld.net
Youtube: https://youtube.com/kingscrusher
Twitch: https://twitch.tv/kingscrusher
Challenge me for a game: https://kingscrusher.tv

Check out our brainy games:

The Future of Puzzle Creation with Krazydad

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Join us as we delve into Jim Bumgardner's fascinating odyssey within the realms of coding and brainteasers. We explore his profound insights on the convergence of computers, music, and puzzle creation, alongside his clever utilization of Foursquare's capabilities which paved the way for his brainchild—the acclaimed puzzle hub—KrazyDad. Our chat also touches upon his confidence in AI's revolutionary impact across sectors, reflections on past revenue models via advertising, and the aspiration to draft a definitive guide on crafting puzzles. Amid the depth, we find moments of levity with tributes to "Star Battle" puzzles and entertaining tales from Jim's adventures in the music world.

Check out Jim's Website:

https://krazydad.com/
--

Check out our brainy games:

Racing Through Rabbit Holes in The Wiki Game

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:31:53 -0800

The Wiki Game is a fun, web-based game that connects two random Wikipedia article links. Alex shares his journey of how he started out, using concepts like six degrees of separation to create a game involving Wikipedia articles, and how it has steadily grown over the years to around 60,000 - 80,000 unique users a month. Despite challenges like hacking incidents and handling various user complaints, for Alex, the game remains a labor of love. He also talks about his ideas for the future of the game — a freemium model targeting larger private groups, the forthcoming launch of version 3, and how he has resisted using ads to fund the project.

Play The Wiki Game:

www.thewikigame.com

(00:00) - Intro
(02:16) - Alex's Gaming Preferences and Inspiration
(03:21) - The Wiki Game: Origin and Evolution
(04:31) - Impact of COVID-19 on The Wiki Game
(05:46) - Technical Aspects and Challenges
(07:33) - How to Retain Users
(11:02) - Business Aspects and Future Plans
(12:39) - Relationship with Wikipedia
(18:19) - Monetization and Ethical Considerations
(22:11) - Future Developments
(24:27) - The IOS App and Its Performance
(25:19) - The Need for an Updated Version
(25:35) - Challenges of Maintaining a Side Project
(26:38) - Life and Career as a Developer
(28:33) - The Journey into Programming
(32:10) - Dealing with User Feedback and Criticism
(33:30) - The Growth and User Analytics of The Wiki Game
(36:31) - The Process of Validating Ideas
(40:50) - The Use of The Wiki Game in Classrooms
(42:00) - The Anticipation for Version 3
(43:34) - Reaching Out and Openness to Share

Check out our brainy games:

Modernizing a Classic Puzzle With Sven's SudokuPad

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 02:00:00 -0800

In this episode, hosts Aaron Kardell and Joseph Rueter of the 'Hey, Good Game' podcast sit down with game developer Sven Neumann. They discuss the creation and development of Sven's SudokuPad, used by Cracking the Cryptic, his early interest in technology and gaming, as well as his vision for the platform's future. Neumann also discusses the considerations of building a social platform for Sudoku, which would include features like subscribing to channels and categorizing puzzles.

Play Sven's Games:

Sven's SudokuPad

Sven's Website

(00:00) - Intro
(00:37) - Interview with Sven Neumann: The Man Behind Sven's SudokuPad
(01:49) - Sven's Journey into the World of Games
(05:04) - The Birth of Sven's SudokuPad
(07:09) - The Impact of Cracking the Cryptic
(10:18) - The Future of SudokuPad: Innovations and Challenges
(21:16) - The Business Aspect of SudokuPad
(26:14) - Balancing Business and User Experience
(26:35) - The Challenges of Advertising-Driven Business
(27:11) - User Feedback and Patreon Support
(27:55) - Supporting Content Creators and Streamers
(28:18) - Nostalgic Journey into Tech
(29:57) - The Struggles of ADHD and Productivity
(31:35) - The Vision for SudokuPad 2.0
(34:14) - The Power of Data in Puzzle Design
(35:41) - The Future of SudokuPad: A Social Platform
(40:24) - Supporting Puzzle Makers and Users
(44:45) - Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Check out our brainy games:

How Abe Train's First Game Globle Went Global

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 02:00:00 -0800

You’d be surprised how a well-established corporate worker like Abe Train started creating games for a living! From big-name companies like Tesla, General Motors and Hello Fresh, to creating his own brand and entering a niche that he loves, Abe has a great story to share behind his success.

This is how a corporate worker traded his stable life to venture out into the industry of game development and created the hit game, Globle.

Nate Kadlac (https://twitter.com/kadlac) and Aaron Kardell (https://twitter.com/akardell) chat with Abe Train from Trainwreck Labs, the creator of popular online games including Globle and Globle Capitals.

Play Abe's Games:

https://trainwrecklabs.com/

(00:00) - Intro
(00:19) - Interview with Abe Train: The Journey to Game Development
(02:31) - Abe Train's Favorite Games and Early Interests
(09:16) - The Birth of Globle: Inspired by Wordle
(12:09) - Monetizing Globle: The Decision to Include Ads
(14:02) - Working with Ad Partners: A Business Perspective
(16:39) - The Solo Entrepreneur Journey: Building a Gaming Company
(17:54) - Creating Genitle: A Unique Collaborative Project
(19:14) - Creating Educational Diagrams for Games
(20:18) - Partnerships and Revenue Sharing in Game Development
(20:45) - The Journey of Becoming a Full-Time Game Developer
(21:48) - Exploring New Features and Future Projects
(25:44) - How Abe Monetizes
(29:48) - Upcoming Game Designs and Projects
(34:41) - The Impact of Educational Games
(37:09) - Connecting with the Gaming Community

Check out our brainy games:

Bridging the Word Gap: How Woogles is Revolutionizing Scrabble

Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Unlock the secrets of Scrabble with Woogles creators César Del Solar and Jesse Day, who join us to discuss the power of two-letter words and parallel plays that can transform your word game skills. As we chat with these Scrabble aficionados, we uncover not only their journeys into the world of competitive Scrabble but also how their diverse backgrounds and love for the game led to the inception of Woogles. Their friendly banter on topics from condiments to the platform's chess-inspired beginnings gives a glimpse into the camaraderie and passion fueling their successful, polished online presence, crafted when the world went virtual.

Play Woogles:

https://woogles.io/

(00:00) - Introduction and Importance of Two-Letter Words in Scrabble
(00:33) - Podcast Introduction and Guest Background
(02:17) - Discussion on Woogles and Its Creation
(02:50) - Geographical Locations and Personal Connections
(03:29) - Inspiration Behind Woogles
(06:54) - Development of AI for Scrabble
(08:39) - Challenges of Building AI for Scrabble
(12:39) - Woogles as a Nonprofit Organization
(14:55) - Personal Experiences and Love for Words
(20:20) - Tips for New Scrabble Players
(23:34) - Introduction of Puzzle Mode in Woogles
(25:49) - Understanding Wordle and Its Popularity
(27:18) - Personal Experiences with Wordle
(27:46) - Incorporating Virality into Word Games
(28:32) - Sharing and Promoting Games on Social Media
(29:13) - Exploring Other Favorite Word Games
(31:37) - The Challenge of Balancing Features for Different User Groups
(33:02) - The Journey into Gaming and Programming
(40:00) - Comparing Non-Profit and Startup Experiences

Check out our brainy games:

Behind the Success of KenKen: An Interview with Robert Fuhrer

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 02:00:00 -0800

Robert Fuhrer explores his years-long journey in the toy and game industry in this interview. He reminisces about the many experiences that shaped his career from early exposure to the toy industry, his first creation, his various partnerships and ventures and how he ended up being the owner of the popular puzzle game, KenKen. His journey reflects the crucial importance of relationships in business, being outspoken about opportunities, and taking on ventures with undefined outcomes. Fuhrer also talks about his experience with marketing and fiercely competitive business models and gives some sage advice to aspiring game developers.

Play KenKen:

https://www.kenkenpuzzle.com/

(00:00) - Robert's Journey in Toy Industry
(08:56) - Navigating Japanese Business Cultural Differences
(15:48) - Pitching Toy Ideas in Japan
(26:54) - Design's Impact on Game Success
(35:23) - Introduction to KenKen Puzzle Game
(42:09) - Meeting Will Shortz and Introducing KenKen to the New York Times
(52:31) - Launching in The Times UK
(55:27) - Securing Rights and Trademarking KenKen
(59:43) - Building the Online Version of KenKen
(01:04:35) - Business Model and Revenue Streams
(01:09:51) - Company and Team Size
(01:11:53) - Advice for Entrepreneurs

Check out our brainy games:

Horror, Puzzles, and Pragmatism: The Improbable Journey of CineNerdle

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 26 Dec 2023 02:00:00 -0800

Step into the shadowy corridors of game development with our esteemed guest, Nilanth Yogadasan, the creative genius behind the eerie yet addictive games, CineNerdle and CineNerdle 2. His games reach over 30,000 daily players, and over 15 million games played. Our conversation takes a deep dive into Nilanth's inspiration, drawing heavily from his passion for horror cinema, and how it fuels the enigmatic puzzles in CineNerdle. Alongside his passion, Nilanth's journey also encompasses the trials and tribulations of maintaining a successful game, providing a fascinating glimpse into a game maker's mind.

Play Nilanth's games:

https://www.cinenerdle.app/
https://www.cinenerdle2.app/

(00:00) - Passion for Games and Film
(10:56) - Evolution of CineNerdle and Adding Ads
(17:03) - Creating and Developing the CineNerdle Games
(24:32) - Getting Community Feedback
(25:55) - Branding and Naming CineNerdle
(31:21) - Pausing School and Running CineNerdle Full-Time
(37:01) - Building and Marketing Games

Check out our brainy games:

From Rubik's Cube Champion to Game Development: Toby Mao's Journey

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 02:00:00 -0800

Are you ready to step into the intriguing world of game development, entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of excellence? Let me welcome you to a captivating conversation with Toby Mao, the driving force behind 18XX Games and a Rubik's Cube record holder. His diverse journey weaves through the set of Pursuit of Happiness with Will Smith, creating 18XX games, to leading roles at Airbnb and Netflix, and now, co-founding Tobiko Data. Toby's relentless passion for excellence, his exciting career path, and his remarkable ability to excel in various fields will leave you inspired.

Play Toby's game:

18XX - https://18xx.games

(00:00) - - Rubik's Cube, Will Smith, Game Development
(11:22) - - Monetizing Games and Online Gameplay
(18:16) - - 18XX Board Games and Game Development
(27:39) - - 18XX Programming Challenges

Check out our brainy games:

Turning $30 Into $25,000 a Month with Online Solitaire

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 02:00:00 -0800

Get ready to unlock the mysteries of game development and indie hacking as we entertain an inspiring chat with Holger Sindbæk, the enterprising mind behind Online-Solitaire.com and WorldOfCardGames.com. Gain a new perspective from Holger's inspiring journey from designer to developer, and how he transformed his passion project into a significant income source. We promise you'll be intrigued by Holger's analytical approach to game development, hints of strategies that boosted an existing game, and his current fascination with Diablo 4 - quite the leap from solitaire!

Play Holger's games:

online-solitaire.com
Worldofcardgames.com

(00:00) - From $1,500 to $10,000
(09:51) - Web Game Ads
(19:52) - Transition From Designer to Developer
(23:28) - From Designer to Entrepreneur
(28:48) - Acquiring a Website and Setting Goals
(36:44) - Indie Business Progress and Success
(47:54) - Future Plans for Websites and Apps
(52:23) - Building Games for Sustainable Entrepreneurship

Check out our brainy games:

The World of Casual Games: A Discussion with the Hey, Good Game Team

Nate Kadlac, Aaron Kardell, Joseph Rueter — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 02:00:00 -0800

What do games mean to you? As kids, games have had a large impact on our lives. Now as adults, join our inaugural and nostalgia-fueled episode as we, your hosts Joseph, Aaron, and Nate, explore the significance of childhood games and how they shaped us.

We also discuss how games have played a significant role in our entrepreneurial journeys.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• About the evolution of programming languages
• Games as an introduction to entrepreneurship
• Why daily games work so well
• Casual gaming and community involvement
• The impact of streaks on motivation

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SHOW NOTES