PODCAST · leisure
Indie Game Guildhall
by Indie Game Academy
Real stories from real game developers about breaking into the Indie side of the video game industry. Welcome to the Indie Game Guildhall, hosted by the Indie Game Academy! Listen in or join live. Our podcast is hosted and recorded live on our Discord. Each Wednesday at 12pm EST we interview experts in the game industry and give community members like YOU a chance to ask them questions. We cover breaking into the indie game industry, publishing games, game design and so much more. Join the Discord
Episodes
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Smart Social Strategy for Audience and Competitive Edge
Marketing powerhouse Genevieve DeVille reveals how to build social strategies that don’t just grow audiences—they create true fandoms. Drawing from her work on Dungeons & Dragons experiences and hit titles like TRANSFORMERS: Tactical Arena and LEGO Brawls, she shares how smart brands stand out…
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Should You Make a VR Game in 2026?
VR industry veterans Waylon Fisher and Brandon Egolf share hard-earned lessons from launching one of the first VR arcades in the U.S., navigating market swings and COVID, and publishing multiple Quest top sellers. They break down whether making a VR game in 2026 is a smart bet—and what developers...
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All About Community Building
This week, Anya Combs joins us to break down what real community building looks like in the games industry. Drawing from her time at AddictingGames, Nickelodeon, and as Director of Games at Kickstarter, Anya shares practical insights on crowdfunding, developer relations, and turning an audience...
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Portfolio Best Practices
In this community episode, Willem and Tim break down portfolio best practices. What to include, what to leave out, and how to present your work with clarity and intention. They share practical insights and real-world examples to help portfolios communicate skill, growth, and focus without...
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Gamified Learning Lessons: How Building Games Teaches Strategy, Teamwork, Feedback Cycles, and Storytelling
In this episode, we sit down with Matt Dalio, CEO & Co-Founder of Endless, whose work sets the standard for using game creation as a serious learning tool. Matt breaks down how building games sharpens strategy, teamwork, feedback loops, and storytelling; and why these skills translate directly to...
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Always Backup Your Game
In this episode, Jacob Kuchinsky shares lessons from building his first game, Constellar, after two years of hands-on development. He dives into why backups matter, what can go wrong without them, and practical habits every developer—new or seasoned—should adopt. A grounded, useful listen for...
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Letting Data Guide—Without Killing the Soul of Your Game
In this episode, we sit down with Fernando Dominguez Sarmiento, the creative force behind Super Farming Boy, to unpack how world-class developers use data to sharpen decisions without draining a game of its heart. Drawing on accolades from the Apple App Store Awards and a career spanning games,...
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Evolution in Rogue-Like Game Design
Loren Weng is one of the sharpest minds in modern rogue-like design, known for redefining how systems, mechanics, and progression shape a player’s experience. From leading the spellcasting and combat systems in Harry Potter: Wizards Unite to pushing new boundaries in game design, Loren brings a...
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Why Passion Beats Spite in Game Development
In this episode, indie developer Omar shares why games built from genuine passion resonate more deeply than those made in reaction to industry trends. He reflects on leading Super Buff HD, writing for multiple horror titles, and shaping the upcoming Cairo: Otherscape, a project that raised over...
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How to Build a Sustainable Game Studio
In this episode, Salaar shares lessons from a lifelong journey in game development—from creating games at age 8 to shipping titles at CAGE Studios and contributing to God of War: Ragnarok. We discuss what it really takes to build a sustainable indie studio, balancing creativity, longevity, and…
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Distribution & the Power of Community
In this episode, we sit down with one of the most respected voices in game development, Jared Yeager, to unpack how distribution and community shape the success of modern games. With over two decades leading teams at Disney, Activision, Capcom, and more, Jared shares powerhouse insights on…
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Never Stopping the Momentum
In this episode, Ludocratic Games joins us to share the philosophy behind their studio. Rooted in the idea of ludus and kratos, they believe games should always be in charge. It’s a bold, playful vision, and they’re fully committed to it. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie…
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Iterating Towards an Incredible Game
In this episode, we sit down with the trio behind Future Suit Games to explore how passion, persistence, and teamwork fuel their journey of building Daughter of the Rift. From engineering and art to narrative design, they share how iteration has shaped their game into something truly special. Get...
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Making a Branching Narrative, Together!
Join hosts Tim Wood and our very own Willem as they dive into the thrilling world of branching narratives in game development. Discover how stories come alive in every twist and turn and what it really takes to craft unforgettable, dynamic adventures. Learn more about us Join the next episode of...
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Why AAA Hiring Can Suck, and How Indies Can Compete
In this episode, Tim Wood and our very own Wizard of Joy, Willem Delventhal, dig into why AAA hiring can feel broken and how indies are flipping the script. With sharp insights and real experience, they reveal how smaller teams can win big on talent, culture, and opportunity. A must-listen for...
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Every Prop Has a Story!
Today’s episode features Lara Guzelsoy, a standout emerging Environment Artist whose work fuses history, culture, and storytelling into unforgettable game worlds. From her acclaimed thesis project Lex Talionis to her current work with WAI Studios, Lara shows how every prop and detail can carry...
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How Education and Experience Got Me Into The Game Industry
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Valencia Coleman, a standout Gameplay Engineer at Owlchemy Labs and a recognized leader in the game industry. From IGDA-F Scholar to The Game Awards Future Class honoree, Valencia shares how her education and experiences opened the door to a thriving...
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Less is More: Why You Don't Need Dozens of Game Mechanics to Make Your Game Feel Good
Today we’re joined by Elaine Gómez, one of the sharpest minds in game design and a true champion for Latine voices in the industry! With nearly a decade of experience in both AAA and indie games, Elaine breaks down why great design doesn’t mean more mechanics, it means smarter choices. If you're...
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Giving Voice to the Marginalized
Today we’re joined by the incredible Osama Dorias! Game designer, educator, and all-around industry force! From working on hits like Gotham Knights and For Honor to building programs and platforms that uplift marginalized voices, Osama is doing game dev with heart. This convo is packed with...
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Game Design That Crosses Cultures
In this episode, we’re diving into the world of game design with Kate Edwards, a trailblazer who's been shaping the industry for over 30 years! As the CEO of Geogrify and a visionary behind game culturalization, Kate's work has helped developers create immersive experiences that connect across...
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From Game Master to Game Dev
Join us for a conversation with Eric Betancourt, a storytelling powerhouse, an award-worthy narrative designer, masterful Dungeon Master, and educator who brings worlds to life across tabletop and digital realms. With credits from heavyweights like Wizards of the Coast and Fantasy Flight Games,...
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All About Worker Co-ops
In this episode, Squinky and Jess from Soft Chaos dive into the world of worker co-ops and how collective ownership fuels their bold, genre-defying work. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how they create deeply personal, experimental games and interactive art that push the boundaries of play. Learn...
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The Process of Learning New Tools
In this episode, we dive into the process of learning new tools as game developers, creatives, and collaborators. From the initial overwhelm to the breakthrough moments, our community shares real experiences, strategies, and mindset shifts that make picking up new tech less daunting—and even fun....
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Narrative in Motion
In this episode, Aysha U. Farah shares her approach to building unforgettable stories and gives us an inside look at her latest project, the narrative shooter Spine. Asyha is one of the sharpest minds in narrative design today, with a portfolio that spans Magic: The Gathering, Hiveswap, and the…
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Challenges and Rewards of Being Trans and Queer in the Game Industry
In this episode, we sit down with Layla Pigott (they/she)—film editor, game designer, and founder of Lookout Drive Games—to talk about the challenges and rewards of being trans and queer in the game industry. From navigating identity in professional spaces to building community through games like...
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How To Be Satisfied With Your Art When You're Never Satisfied With Your Art
Join us for a conversation with Sydney, the unparalleled force behind some of the most compelling horror and sci-fi storytelling in games and film. An award-winning filmmaker, game dev, streamer, and horror ambassador, Sydney channels a uniquely digital soul into creations like QUALIA—a striking...
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Whiskers, Wizards, and Wands
In this episode, we chat with the team behind Sweet and Power Sauce (SAPS), a six-person studio born from the joy of game jams and a shared love of traditional art. We'll dive into their upcoming title Whiskers, Wizards, and Wands, a hand-drawn, marker-and-ink adventure where a reluctant feline...
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Ludorya: All About The Game
In this episode, we're joined by the founders of Ludorya Studios, a team of game designers who met during their Master’s in Game Science and Design and built a studio where playful chaos meets meaningful innovation. We explore their journey, their commitment to designing games by players, for...
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How Different Disciplines Shape A Unified Vision
In this episode, we sit down with the trio behind Future Suit Games, Abram, Adam, and Kristi, to talk about their journey building an indie studio from the ground up. We dive into their upcoming debut title Daughter of the Rift, a narrative-rich card battler that fuses emotional storytelling with...
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Rethinking The Design of Social Impact Indie Games
In this episode, we sit down with Nicholas O’Brien, one of the most distinctive voices in narrative game design and critical play. As the founder of Essay Games, his groundbreaking work has earned recognition from The New York Times, The Guardian, and Kotaku, and has been showcased at top…
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Why Early Marketing Matters
In this episode, we’re joined by Corina Diaz, a powerhouse digital media strategist with over 15 years of experience driving marketing and community strategy for entertainment brands. From launching standout indie games like A Fold Apart and The Big Con to shaping industry-wide initiatives like…
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Getting the Most Out of Your Game by Getting the Most Out of Voice Acting
One of the best in the business, Michael has voiced, cast, and directed unforgettable performances in over 100 games—including Zenless Zone Zero—and he’s here to blow the lid off what voice acting can do for your game. Whether you're an indie underdog or a AAA juggernaut, this episode is your...
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Intersections of Game Design and VTubing
In this episode, we chat with Ami Cai—a visual narrator, freelance illustrator, and graphic designer whose work spans from indie projects to the role of Art Director on the Kickstarter-backed Cartomancy Anthology. Ami shares insights into balancing creative careers with casual VTubing and…
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Creating on a Budget: How Indie Artists are Redefining Visual Art
In this episode, we sit down with illustrator, concept artist, and professor Ryan E. Grady to talk about her journey through games, education, and independent storytelling. From working on Our Brilliant Ruin to creating her own visual novel Lythe The Forgetful Witch and comic series Daughters of...
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Lessons Learned on Game Publishing, both Self-Publishing, Getting a Publisher and Working with VC Funding Learned at GDC This Year
Join us as we break down key insights from GDC this year, covering self-publishing, securing a publisher, and navigating VC funding. Whether you're an indie dev or part of a studio, this episode offers practical takeaways to help you make smarter publishing decisions. Learn more abour Claire…
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Believing in Yourself in the Gaming Industry’s Toughest Era
In this episode, we talk with Kristi, a powerhouse in narrative design who transitioned from a successful copywriting career just two years ago. Since then, she’s shaped the stories of over six indie titles, led narrative efforts on AA-sized projects, and is now taking on her biggest challenge…
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Staying Optimistic in the Face of a Struggling Game Industry
The game industry is evolving, bringing both challenges and opportunities. This week, we’re discussing how developers can navigate a shifting landscape with insights from our Discord community. Join us for a community-focused conversation on adaptability, strategy, and moving forward in uncertain...
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AI, Intelligent Agents and Generative Tools for Productivity
In this episode, we sit down with industry veteran Frank Gilson, whose 25+ years in game development span multiple genres and platforms, including work on iconic titles like Diablo and World of Warcraft. Frank shares insights from his career, discusses the evolution of interactive media, and…
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AI Behavioral and It’s Use as a Tool in Game Development
In this episode, we dive into AI behavior in game development with an open discussion featuring our Discord community. We explore how AI can be used as a tool to enhance gameplay, storytelling, and player interaction, sharing insights from both developers and players.\ Learn more about us Join…
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How To Bring A Square Peg (Story) Into a Round Hole (Games)
This week, we’re joined by the legendary Susan O’Connor, Founder & CEO of The Narrative Department and the award-winning writer behind BioShock, Far Cry, Tomb Raider, and more. We dive into her journey, the craft of game storytelling, and how she’s helping the next generation of writers and...
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Entrepreneurship in Gaming
Join us for a conversation with GC as we dive into the business side of game development! With experience advising studios across the US, Europe, and Asia, GC shares insights on funding, scaling, and building a sustainable studio—without compromising creativity. Whether you're an indie dev or...
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Cracking the Code to Creator Collaboration in Indie Games
Want to unlock the secret to successful collaborations in the indie gaming world? Mike Gray dives into the art of building partnerships between creators, publishers, and designers; sharing real strategies, hard-earned lessons, and insider tips. Whether you're a content creator, game designer, or...
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Cinematic Design: Visual Storytelling in Videogames
Tune in as we sit down with Cristian Jereghi, a master storyteller whose work spans film, TV, and some of the biggest games in the industry. With over a decade of experience as a producer, director, and cinematic designer—shaping Metro: Exodus and Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty—he brings a…
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The Impact of Great Sound and Dialogue in Gaming
In this episode, we explore the artistry behind the sounds and voices that bring games to life. Our guest, Matthew Kulewicz, a seasoned Dialogue Designer and Sound Mixer with credits on titles like Arcane: Season 2, Star Wars: Outlaws, and The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, shares insights into...
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Breaking Into The Industry
In this episode, we sit down with Daedra Christopher, a veteran game designer behind some of the most iconic FPS franchises like Call of Duty, Warzone, and Halo. Renowned for her worldbuilding expertise and passion for immersive gameplay, Daedra shares insights from her storied career, her...
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What Is Narrative Design and How Do You Design Your Future in Games (While Doing the Same Thing Four Hundred Times)
In this episode, we dive deep with Yuri Flagrare—a powerhouse in narrative design, software engineering, and storytelling mastery. With over 500 fiction stories, countless interactive narratives, and two books under his belt, Yuri has redefined what it means to perfect a craft. From applying...
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Pros And Cons of Looking For a Publisher As An Indie
In this episode, we’re joined by Mitch Cronin, a veteran of the gaming industry with over 19 years of experience spanning AAA and indie spaces. From pivotal roles at Volition and Humble Games to his current work as a senior technical producer at Santa Monica Studio, Mitch has seen it all. We dive...
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The Storytelling Toolkit: Better Narrative and Quest Design
Join us as we explore the art of crafting compelling narratives and engaging quest designs with Quinn Elmer, a seasoned narrative designer and writer with over a decade of experience across indie and AAA games. Drawing from his work at Lost Boys Interactive and collaborations with Gearbox...
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Deviating to Success: Building a Studio, Breaking Norms, and Shipping Our First Game
In this episode, we talk with Kyra Reive, CEO of Deviant Games, whose journey is as compelling as the games her studio creates. From serving in the military in Alaska to running family businesses, her path took a bold turn during the pandemic, leading to the launch of a game studio with limitless...
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Creating Positivity in Indie Games: Staying True to Vision Amidst Changing Expectations
In this episode, we’re joined by an extraordinary voice in games media—an experienced journalist, podcaster, and editor-in-chief of Fearzine Magazine. With over five years of covering the gaming industry, he’s interviewed everyone from indie devs to iconic talents like Nolan North. He shares his...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Real stories from real game developers about breaking into the Indie side of the video game industry. Welcome to the Indie Game Guildhall, hosted by the Indie Game Academy! Listen in or join live.
Our podcast is hosted and recorded live on our Discord. Each Wednesday at 12pm EST we interview experts in the game industry and give community members like YOU a chance to ask them questions. We cover breaking into the indie game industry, publishing games, game design and so much more.
Join the Discord
HOSTED BY
Indie Game Academy
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Indie Game Guildhall have?
Indie Game Guildhall currently has 181 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Indie Game Guildhall about?
Real stories from real game developers about breaking into the Indie side of the video game industry. Welcome to the Indie Game Guildhall, hosted by the Indie Game Academy! Listen in or join live. Our podcast is hosted and recorded live on our Discord. Each Wednesday at 12pm EST we interview...
How often does Indie Game Guildhall release new episodes?
Indie Game Guildhall publishes regularly with 181 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Indie Game Guildhall?
You can listen to Indie Game Guildhall on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Indie Game Guildhall?
Indie Game Guildhall is created and hosted by Indie Game Academy.
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