The Gaming Playbook w/ Harry Phokou

What does it actually take to build successful games in 2026 and beyond?Today, I'm joined by Tom Dusenberry, former Hasbro Interactive CEO, who shares hard-earned lessons from shipping 300+ games, navigating M&A, and working with some of the biggest IPs in the world.We break down the realities of game development today, from licensing and funding to AI, discoverability, and what truly drives long-term success.If you're a game developer, studio founder, or just curious about how the games industry really works behind the scenes, this episode will challenge how you think about building, scaling, and sustaining games.Connect with Tom:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomdusenberry/⁠Websites: ⁠http://www.dusenberryentertainment.com/⁠Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@hphokou⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hphokou/⁠Join our industry events: ⁠https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/⁠Chapters:00:00 Intro02:30 What is licensing in games (in-licensing vs out-licensing)05:00 Can indie devs work with big IPs like Disney or Star Wars?08:00 Minimum requirements before approaching IP holders10:00 When NOT to use a license in your game11:30 How licensing deals actually work (funding, marketing, value)12:30 State of the games industry in 2026 (growth, AI, layoffs)16:00 Why layoffs happen even during record profits17:00 Should you build the next Fortnite?18:30 Systems-based games vs narrative games (replayability debate)20:30 Building vs using engines (Unreal, Unity, custom engines)21:30 Why Hasbro shipped 300+ games (strategy & categories)23:40 Why most indie games fail (and how to avoid it)25:00 What makes games addictive (repeat play & engagement)27:00 Mobile vs PC/console: where the opportunity is29:00 AI in gaming: tools, workflows, and competitive advantage33:00 Should studios train teams or hire AI-first talent?34:30 Funding games: why to avoid venture capital (strong opinion)39:00 Better alternatives to VC (publishers, family offices)44:00 M&A: what to know if you’re selling or acquiring47:00 Career advice: what actually matters long-term52:00 Work-life balance in games (family vs work reality)56:00 What has changed vs what hasn’t in gaming57:30 How to measure “fun” in a game01:00:00 Testing games: how many players is enough?01:01:00 Final advice: how to build a game that lasts 10+ years

How do you build a sustainable studio in an unsustainable industry?In this episode, I sit down with Dru Erridge (ex-Riot Games) to break down how he built a profitable, self-funded game studio in an industry driven by risk, layoffs, and hit-driven outcomes.We dive into why co-development is the hidden backbone of the games industry, how to build a remote team that actually works, and why chasing your “dream game” too early can kill your company.If you're a founder, game developer, or studio lead trying to build something sustainable in games, this episode is for you.Connect with Dru:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/druerridge/Websites: https://bespokeci.dev/, https://www.gamebreaking.com/contact-usGame: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3053950/Dungeon_Rampage/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro02:35 How Game Breaking Studios is structured04:54 Why the games industry is unsustainable07:31 Why co-development became the sustainable path10:58 What Dru would tell himself on day one13:32 The opposite of the VC playbook14:51 Lessons from Riot’s self-sustaining teams18:30 Why they built the studio remotely from day one20:48 How Gather helped them make remote work actually work23:56 Scaling a remote studio from 3 to 30 people28:48 Why backend matters so much in modern games32:01 In-house vs outsourced backend34:29 Should co-dev studios build their own IP?37:01 Why original games should be a separate business line40:06 Who hires studios to build games from scratch43:23 Their first original-IP push and why it failed46:15 The Dungeon Rampage revival story50:43 Rebuilding the game with a tiny team52:38 Launch results and what happened next01:00:31 Why there is still opportunity in games

Do indie game developers actually need publishers? After 20 years in the industry as a developer, studio founder, and publisher, Andrei Podoprigora breaks down the honest truth behind indie publishing, what makes a game fundable, and why RIGHT NOW is a once-in-a-generation window for small studios.We dig into systems-driven game design, why your Steam page is killing your wishlists, the one metric that matters more than wishlists, and the hard lessons from pitching 25+ VCs and hearing nothing but "no."Whether you're a solo dev trying to get your first game funded or a studio deciding whether to self-publish, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won't find anywhere else.Connect with Andrei:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/podopriguez/X: https://x.com/podopriguezWebsite: https://www.forklift.gg/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro2:05 Andrei’s 20 years in games: dev, studio, publisher, investor5:05 Why now is still a huge opportunity for indie devs8:07 The post-COVID industry hangover explained12:03 Competition vs scarcity in indie games15:07 Why small teams make avoidable mistakes18:02 Systems-driven vs content-driven games22:00 Why systemic games are winning now25:02 Examples of successful systems-based games28:05 Why designing systems is so hard30:04 Are these the best times ever for gamers?33:00 Why gamers complain so much36:00 The brutal truth: most games fail to communicate clearly39:07 How to make your game instantly understandable on Steam42:00 The biggest misconception about publishers45:07 Why publishing is not just one gimmick48:15 Dino, indie publishers, and the Tim Bender debate50:07 How to evaluate a publisher properly53:05 Should indie devs work with indie publishers?54:26 Roleplay: what a good developer should ask a publisher first58:00 What a publisher actually does behind the scenes1:01:30 What self-publishing really means1:05:00 Why most teams underestimate marketing1:09:30 How to think about traction before signing a deal1:14:00 Building trust between devs and publishers1:18:30 Indie support, content, and using media as a funnel1:26:00 Why survival stories resonate with indie devs1:29:00 Final thoughts for indie developers

Learn how mobile game publishing really works in 2026, from user acquisition costs to what publishers actually look for when funding games.Today, I'm joined by an industry expert, Elena Lobova (Head of Strategic Partnerships at Burny Games), who breaks down the realities of mobile game publishing, why most games fail, and how developers can stand out in a hyper-competitive market.We cover everything from securing a publisher to understanding UA and avoiding the biggest mistakes that kill game launches.If you're a mobile game developer, indie studio, or just curious about how top publishers operate, this episode is for you.Connect with Elena:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olenalobova/Website: https://www.burny.games/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro03:01 The state of mobile game publishing in 202607:12 Building a game in 60 days (real example)10:55 How to test game ideas quickly12:32 Designing games for long-term retention13:55 The “level 100” test for game scalability15:14 What to prepare before pitching a publisher19:19 Why a gameplay video is essential20:50 What metrics matter (retention, CPI, installs)23:40 Biggest mistakes developers make26:40 Why marketing knowledge is no longer optional28:42 Why great games still fail without visibility33:33 Organic vs paid user acquisition explained38:03 What publishers look for in teams40:30 Revenue share, recoup, and funding realities42:36 Where to find publishers in 202647:01 How to get noticed by publishers51:50 New publishing models (UA funding, SaaS publishing)56:21 Career advice for game developers01:00:15 Why rejection doesn’t mean your game is bad01:03:21 How to pitch Elena & final thoughts

What does a game studio brand really mean beyond a logo or color palette?Today, I'm joined by Anastasia Zaiceva, Chief Communications Officer at ZiMAD, who shares how strong branding shapes the identity, strategy, and growth of a game studio.We explore why branding is more than visual design and why it's the foundation that defines a studio’s values, culture, hiring strategy, player relationships, and long-term vision. From aligning internal teams to communicating clearly with players and partners, Anastasia explains how studios can build a brand that supports both creative direction and business success.If you're building a game studio, working in game marketing, or trying to grow a recognizable brand in the gaming industry, this conversation is for you.Connect with Anastasia:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasia-zaiceva/ZiMAD's game portfolio: https://zimad.com/gamesConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro02:04 Why most studios misunderstand branding04:07 Brand vs logo: the real definition of a brand05:07 Should studios think about branding before building games?07:35 Why vision is the foundation of a brand10:22 The danger of chasing metrics instead of vision12:48 How branding influences internal company culture15:48 Founder influence on company culture and brand19:45 Communication channels and mid-stage company branding21:40 Content strategies that attract top talent26:59 Human stories vs AI-generated content29:20 My multi-brand strategy (Hivemind ecosystem)33:57 AI, search engines, and brand visibility36:15 Shared responsibilities in modern companies40:43 What happens when studios don’t have a brand43:50 How brand builds trust with partners and talent47:34 Player experience and emotional outcomes of games50:07 Turning brand strategy into real behaviors52:10 Using content strategy to reinforce brand identity57:13 Hiring people aligned with company vision01:01:12 Final advice on building strong brands

In this episode, I join Jonny Rose to share how I built Hivemind into a leading go-to-market marketing agency for the games industry and why in-person networking events, upskilling, and paid learning communities have been the biggest multipliers in my journey.We break down the real economics of conferences, why most people drift into careers they hate, how to escape analysis paralysis, and why confidence, not skill, is often the real bottleneck when starting a business.If you’re stuck in a job, thinking about launching a service business, or trying to level up your marketing and sales skills, this episode gives you a practical blueprint to move from learning mode to action mode.Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouConnect with Jonny:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnysrose/Join our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro00:18 Why In-Person Networking Still Works Best01:14 How I Think About Creating Valuable Conversations01:50 What Real-Life Interactions Give You That Online Can’t03:06 How Conferences Actually Make Money05:15 How to Get Started in Marketing and Sales09:51 Moving From Hospitality Into a Better Career Path10:46 Choosing Your Long-Term Mission Over Your Current Situation11:01 The Risk of Drifting Through Life13:24 Why Upskilling Helps You Avoid Career Stagnation15:47 Learn First, Earn Later16:56 Why I Invested in Mentors and Courses17:35 How Learning Accelerated My Personal and Business Growth22:51 Why Community Speeds Up Progress23:11 Getting Out of the Learning Phase and Taking Action23:32 Building Confidence by Showing Real Results27:28 How My Personal Mission Grew Into a Bigger Vision31:16 The Launch of Hivemind Academy

How do you revive and regrow a 10-year-old mobile game in one of the toughest markets in gaming?Today, I'm joined by Johnny Mang, General Manager at Rovio, who breaks down how his team rebuilt Angry Birds 2 from the inside out, tackling technical debt, redesigning strategy, restructuring teams, and shifting culture to unlock sustainable growth.We explore what it really takes to turn around a live-service game, how to balance innovation with fundamentals, and why “doing the right things right” became the mantra behind Angry Birds 2’s resurgence.If you’re a game developer, product leader, mobile marketer, or founder scaling a live-service product, this episode is packed with actionable insights on strategy, execution, team alignment, and brand evolution.Connect with Johannes:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannes-mang-166323/Open positions at Rovio: https://www.rovio.com/open-positions/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro03:14 The Rise, Peak & Reinvention of Angry Birds 204:54 The 3 Types of Debt Quietly Killing Live Service Games07:20 What Actually Changed Since Johnny Joined09:43 Why Turnarounds Usually Take Around 3 Years13:50 Why Focus Matters More Than Doing More18:17 Strategy vs Targets: What Leaders Often Confuse22:00 How to Align 80+ People Around One Clear Direction23:52 Profit, Incentives & What Really Motivates Teams29:50 The 4-Part Plan Behind the Comeback33:31 Why Fixing the Basics Changed Everything36:30 Doubling Down on Tech Debt (The Hard Call That Paid Off)39:30 How Product Improvements Made UA Profitable41:10 The Weekly Meeting That Keeps the Business on Track45:20 What Innovation Really Looks Like in Live Service47:07 Why They Paused New Game Development52:40 How to Make a 10-Year-Old Brand Relevant Again57:07 The Untapped Opportunity in Social & Community58:38 Who They’re Hiring & What Makes You Stand Out1:02:17 Final Lessons on Leadership & Rebuilding

The games industry is changing fast and not everyone is keeping up.Today, I sit down with Charlotte Cook (former Team17, Sega, Skybound, angel investor, and fractional CCO) to break down what’s really happening behind the scenes of the games industry right now.We cover why publishers are obsessed with safe bets, how greenlight decisions actually work, why most developers misunderstand publishing deals, and what it really takes to get a game signed in today’s market. Charlotte also shares hard-won lessons from transitioning into fractional and consultancy work post-COVID, navigating burnout, AI’s impact on teams, and why people, not tools, remain the biggest multiplier in games.If you’re a game developer, publisher, founder, consultant, or anyone trying to survive (and thrive) in the modern games industry, this episode will challenge a lot of assumptions.Connect with Charlotte:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itscharlottecook/E-mail: [email protected] with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro02:15 Why the games industry feels stagnant right now03:52 Inside publisher pressure, incentives, and safe bets05:50 Leaving Team17 & starting a consultancy (twice)08:46 Navigating conferences without a big title12:00 How pitches really get judged at events14:06 Publishing myths developers still believe15:15 What publishers now expect before signing a game18:32 Financial reality vs creative ambition20:59 Why some games succeed years after launch23:09 Greenlight decisions: what actually matters26:27 Pricing strategy & why devs get it wrong28:09 IP, minimum guarantees & access problems30:21 Democratizing IP for indie developers33:23 Why people are the real multiplier in games36:01 AI, efficiency, and fear inside studios41:32 Fractional work: pros, cons & survival tips43:56 Burnout, energy cycles & working for yourself48:58 Building community as an independent operator52:04 Consultants, stigma & industry perception56:55 Risk, creativity & the future of games57:21 What Charlotte does as Fractional CCO day-to-day

Why do 90% of games fail, even when the game itself is good?Today, I sit down with Robbie Ferguson, Co-Founder at Immutable, to break down the real data-backed reasons most games never make their money back, and what the top-performing studios do differently.Robbie shares insights from 690+ funded game launches, explains why Steam wishlists are often misleading, and reveals how pre-launch audience warming, cohort quality, and lifecycle marketing determine whether a game succeeds or dies quietly.If you’re a game founder, marketer, indie dev, publisher, or investor, this is a must-watch breakdown of modern game economics and launch strategy.Connect with Robbie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbieferguson/Website: https://www.immutable.com/free-demo-campaignConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro01:40 What Immutable actually does (beyond “Web3”)02:59 690+ funded game launches & why most fail03:38 Why Robbie is still obsessed with fixing game launches05:24 Why marketing efficiency matters more than game quality09:48 Why sending traffic straight to Steam is a mistake13:01 Predicting player spend before launch16:12 Doubling wishlists AND conversion rates17:37 The #1 pre-launch mistake devs make19:24 What an optimal modern marketing team looks like21:25 Personalisation, AI, and player archetypes23:19 What a “whale” actually looks like (surprising answer)25:23 AI, oversupply, and the future of game distribution27:10 Apple tax, margins, and why economics are changing29:00 Why “Web3 games” is the wrong framing32:14 Why AAA studios are shifting to influencer marketing36:20 East vs West: how Asia builds and tests games differently39:55 Using launch data to raise funding44:09 Robbie’s hardest lessons building Immutable47:20 Identifying and solving business constraints52:36 Should founders spend time pitching publishers?54:28 Robbie’s real motivation & long-term vision

Building great teams is harder than building great products.Today, I sit down with Ionuț Codreanu, Head of Studio at Funcom and veteran of titles like Assassin’s Creed and Dune: Awakening, to break down what actually makes teams work in game development and beyond.We explore hiring mistakes founders make early, why “rockstar” employees often fail long-term, how to build a strong core team, and what remote work during COVID really changed inside studios. You’ll also hear practical advice on hiring, culture, leadership conflict, market validation, and how aspiring developers can break into the industry today.Whether you’re building your first team, scaling a game studio, or trying to break into game development, this episode gives you real, battle-tested insight; no theory, no fluff.Connect with Ionut:Website/LinkedIn: http://ionutcodreanu.ro/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at https://join.thegamingplaybook.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro02:35 What a Head of Studio actually does day-to-day04:52 What “building a team” really means in game studios07:28 The biggest hiring mistake founders make09:38 Culture fit vs skills: where most hires go wrong16:34 Competitive personalities & cultural mismatch17:30 Why hiring people “like you” works (and when it fails)20:14 Profiling candidates: red flags, yellow flags, honesty25:09 Rockstar employees: worth it or not?26:47 When imperfect hires are unavoidable28:31 How COVID & remote work changed team dynamics34:33 What a “core team” really is (and why it matters)36:38 Indie studios vs big studios: who’s actually right?38:05 Producers, managers, and shipping games39:30 Creative vs product conflict inside studios41:58 How to handle disagreement without breaking teams50:14 The biggest mistakes studios make53:16 Why “fun” is the most misunderstood concept in games58:41 Breaking into the games industry today01:04:03 Unreal vs Unity & industry shifts01:06:55 Final advice on leadership and team building

How do you actually get your game discovered in 2026, without killing creativity?In this episode, I sit down with Frode Krisner, Founder and Co-CEO at Gameopedia, the hidden data layer powering discovery for YouTube, Google, Amazon, Samsung, and others, reaching over a billion gamers every year.We explore how game discovery really works, why genre is breaking down, how emotional data beats tags, and how AI can amplify creativity instead of replacing it.If you’re a game developer, founder, publisher, investor, or strategist, this episode will permanently change how you think about discovery, data, and creativity in games.Hivemind: B2B Gaming EventsCurated roundtable mixers for founders and executives in the games industry.Food and drinks provided.2026 event calendar now live.https://hivemind.world/Connect with Frode:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frode-krisner-87692b6/Website: https://gameopedia.com/Lumos: https://asklumos.com/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro02:15 Why Gameopedia exists and what it actually does04:03 How gaming saved Frode’s life06:27 How data actually decides which games get discovered09:16 Lumos: turning game data into real developer decisions11:30 How Gameopedia actually works behind the scenes14:04 How specific features shape a game’s success or failure17:08 When data helps creativity — and when it ruins it20:28 Why most developers compare against the wrong games22:54 When data-driven thinking actually hurts innovation25:33 How publishers and investors really judge games26:32 Using data to strengthen your pitch (not fake it)28:05 Catching fatal game mistakes before it’s too late33:10 Why game tagging is broken (and genres don’t help)38:34 Making serious game data accessible to indie devs42:19 Why players don’t choose games by genre48:48 How broken tagging systems hurt discovery54:17 The Gameopedia flywheel explained59:32 Building a company with extreme time and energy limits01:06:01 Hiring great people (and what founders get wrong)01:15:55 The best interview question founders should ask01:18:51 Leadership, suffering, and self-reflection01:24:03 Asking for help without losing authority01:26:19 Facing fear to unlock growth01:35:53 Why caring about people actually matters

The traditional game publisher model is breaking, and indie developers are feeling it first.Today, I'm joined by Dino Patti, co-founder of Playdead, creator of Limbo & Inside, and CEO of coherence. Dino explains why publishers are losing relevance, how developers can build momentum without giving away 50% of their revenue, and what the future of multiplayer games really looks like.If you’re an indie game developer, studio founder, or thinking about working with a publisher, this episode will save you years of mistakes.Connect with Dino:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopatti/X: https://x.com/DinoPattiWebsite: https://coherence.io/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro02:20 Why the old publisher model is breaking04:03 Publishers vs marketing agencies (hard truth)05:34 What publishers actually do (and don’t)08:09 Why VCs struggle to invest in games11:00 The real cost of giving up 50% revenue14:00 What developers need before asking for funding15:55 Marketability, “spark,” and why most games fail18:10 Feedback traps & why publishers aren’t validators20:36 Survivor bias in indie success stories22:44 Vampire Survivors multiplayer explained25:55 Making single-player games multiplayer fast27:12 The future of hybrid multiplayer games31:54 Selling a studio, regret, and loss of purpose37:09 Buying the studio back & what went wrong39:44 The biggest mistake when choosing co-founders43:25 Family businesses, trust & worst-case planning46:49 Who shouldn’t start a company47:39 Learning business without formal education55:29 What’s next for coherence57:04 Building companies that build companies58:50 Final thoughts & where to find Dino

What really happens when your game suddenly explodes to hundreds of thousands of players?Today, I sit down with Felix Oechsler, CTO and Managing Director at Nitrado, to unpack the brutal realities of launching and scaling multiplayer games. From Last Epoch’s massive launch to DDoS attacks, server costs, hyperscalers vs bare metal, and why most studios get infrastructure decisions wrong far too late.This episode is essential viewing for indie developers, studio leads, and anyone building multiplayer games who want to avoid costly launch disasters, downtime, and player frustration. We go deep into real-world war stories, backend failures, scaling strategies, and why infrastructure decisions should be made way earlier than most developers think.If you’re preparing for success or already feeling the pain of scale, this episode will save you time, money, and regret.Connect with Felix:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felix-oechsler-05589192/Website: https://gamefabric.com/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro00:19 What GameFabric is and why it exists04:02 What happens when a game unexpectedly blows up06:46 When developers should start thinking about infrastructure08:38 Load testing mistakes studios keep making09:55 Backend services developers forget to scale11:01 Hidden infrastructure failures (logging, monitoring, costs)13:16 Should developers even make multiplayer games anymore?17:17 Hyperscalers vs bare metal: real cost breakdown21:54 Why gaming-optimized infrastructure matters24:07 What a DDoS attack actually is (plain English)30:04 Is DDoS actually solvable?34:11 Queues, lag, and why Fortnite does it right37:17 Is there a limit to players on one server?40:00 What makes a platform truly developer-focused?44:08 Should studios build infrastructure in-house?48:03 Career lessons going from engineer to CTO50:38 Focus, leadership, and avoiding burnout55:14 Trust, delegation, and scaling teams58:32 Games Felix is playing right now59:11 How to connect with Felix

What actually is a game brand, and why do so many studios still get marketing wrong?Today, I sit down with Edd Newby-Robson, a senior games industry marketing leader with 20+ years of experience across EA, Codemasters, Avalanche Studios, and iconic franchises like Need for Speed, Dirt, The Hunter: Call of the Wild, and more.We break down what brand really means in games, why marketing should start at the beginning of development (not launch), and how studios can survive in a world where 18,000+ games launch every year on Steam.Whether you’re an indie developer, AAA marketer, producer, or founder, this episode is a masterclass in modern game marketing, positioning, and brand strategy.Connect with Edd:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardnr/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouJoin our industry events: https://hivemind.world/Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro02:08 What a “brand” actually means in games06:13 Need for Speed: when players define your brand10:04 Indie studios: brand mistakes to avoid14:14 Logos vs brand attributes (and why visuals aren’t enough)19:55 When should marketing start in game development?22:31 How to check if your game idea has a real market26:40 Why great games still fail commercially28:12 Moving from marketing into production at EA35:42 Who really owns P&L: marketing vs development38:40 How marketers earn trust with developers40:52 Overhyping games: Cyberpunk, No Man’s Sky & reality45:48 Hiring great marketers (and avoiding bad hires)52:19 Building community early: Discord & playtesting56:37 Battlefield Labs & community-driven development58:39 Avalanche’s Frontrunners program & early validation01:02:15 Tips for beginners in games

What does it really take to build and lead a game studio that actually ships, without burning people out?Today, I'm joined by Joni Lappalainen, CEO and Co-founder of Dreamloop Games, who breaks down 10+ years of studio leadership, risk management, sustainable growth, and why overwork culture quietly destroys teams.We dive into time tracking, “hero complex,” healthy crunch, service leadership, AI myths, mentoring, and what founders consistently get wrong about productivity and success in the game industry.If you're a game developer, studio founder, producer, or leader who want longevity, not just hype, this episode is for you.Connect with Joni:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joni-lappalainen-dreamloop/X: https://x.com/dlg_joniInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/joni_dlg_official/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro02:26 Joni’s unconventional path into games05:06 Starting a studio after 3 months as a junior dev08:39 Dreamloop’s risk-management philosophy13:18 What problem Joni is focused on solving today14:04 Why Dreamloop tracks employee work hours15:48 The “hero complex” and why overworking backfires18:15 Rest, creativity, and why productivity myths fail23:51 How to talk about burn out with your team25:48 996 culture vs sustainable careers32:38 Is crunch ever acceptable? How to do it safely35:37 Calendars, boundaries, and the “not-to-do list”39:25 What great leadership actually looks like41:51 Building trust so teams speak up early48:00 How to run effective 1-on-1s50:56 Loneliness, connection, and performance at work55:38 AI in game development: hype vs reality01:00:59 How not to use AI01:03:35 Hardest part of building Dreamloop01:05:15 Mentorship, asking for help, and learning faster01:09:36 Final thoughts and recommendations

Today's guest is Joe Hills, an expert game marketer, ex-Blizzard, Supercell, Meta, Riot, and now Head of Gaming & Partnerships at Once Upon a Time. Also newly joined the Advisory Board for Great Ormond Street Hospital.We break down why studios obsess over launch day, how long you should actually market a game, why gut instinct vs data is misunderstood, and what indie devs consistently get wrong. Joe explains how to find your audience, build long-term hype, create content players genuinely care about, and avoid the traps that kill campaigns before launch.If you’re an indie or AA studio trying to stand out in a brutal market, this episode is for you.Connect with Joe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-hills/Website: https://www.onceuponatime.agency/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro02:40 Why Studios Obsess Over Launch Day03:35 What Studios Misunderstand About Marketing05:00 What Every Indie Developer Should Know07:14 Launch Timing, GTA6, and Market Windows09:16 Joe's Gaming Preferences12:46 Social Games, Roguelikes & Replayability15:42 What Joe’s Agency Actually Does17:35 How Devs Should Think About Clippable Moments19:20 Tools That Help Identify Your Audience22:59 How to Brief an Agency Properly25:44 How to Choose (and Evaluate) a Marketing Agency29:49 When Marketing Fails: Is It You or the Agency?33:12 Leadership, Hiring, and Hard Lessons36:33 Surviving Layoffs & Career Advice41:12 The Biggest Mistake Studios Make in Marketing43:52 Mojang, Dev Diaries & The Power of Human Stories46:41 How to Reach Joe & Closing Thoughts

Today's guest is Jenny Xu, a long-distance runner, Forbes 30 Under 30, and CEO of Talofa Games.Jenny breaks down her wild journey from making 100+ games as a kid to raising $6M and building Monster Walk, a genre-bending fitness RPG. We dig into founder focus, beating overwhelm, fundraising reality, personal identity, creative intuition, and the life moments that shaped her. If you’re building games, raising money, or trying to stay disciplined as a founder, this episode is for you.Connect with Jenny:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xujennyc/Monster walk: https://linktr.ee/talofaConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro03:14 How Jenny started making games at 12 (anime, Pokémon, Flash)05:25 Paying for college with mobile games07:24 Edgy genres, horror dating sims, and internet anonymity10:29 How to make streamers pick up your game (real strategy)13:41 Building Talofa: combining fitness + games15:15 Monster Walk deep dive: world, mechanics, steps16:48 Behaviour change through game design18:22 Mission-driven recruiting & team motivation19:27 Fundraising reality: insecurity, desperation, and losing confidence21:53 The turning point: pitching from personal truth24:56 Why she taught fitness every single day for 3 years27:16 Jenny's 'almost quit' story & getting into the Niantic contest32:10 “Applying to everything” & creating your own luck36:34 Founder focus: events, burnout, and intentional calendars42:56 Calendar engineering, morning vs. evening energy45:42 Remote work strategies, treadmill calls, and keeping energy up47:45 What she’d do differently when building the first product51:18 Filtering feedback without losing creative vision53:34 The emotional story: surprising her parents with a wedding59:44 Life timing, gratitude, and closing reflections

Today's guest is Simon Sundén, a veteran of the competitive gaming scene, CEO of Clutch Group, and the operator behind major esports productions like the GeoGuessr World Cup.We dig into the rise of esports from its origins in South Korea, how livestreaming changed the industry forever, and why most studios misunderstand what esports is actually for. Simon breaks down what makes a game truly competitive, how to evaluate esports potential, and why watchability matters more than most devs realise.Whether you're a game developer, studio founder, or just obsessed with competitive gaming, this is a masterclass in understanding how esports really works.Connect with Simon:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonsunden/Company's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clutchgame/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro03:03 The origins of esports and the Korean boom07:43 How streaming transformed competitive gaming13:14 How esports boosts game retention and monetization19:06 How GeoGuessr unexpectedly became a successful esports24:27 How to know if your game is ready for esports32:51 Why watchability is crucial for streaming and competition36:30 Could “Peak” become an esports? Simon’s analysis41:30 What it actually takes to run an esports competition45:08 Cutting noise, delegating smartly, and staying focused51:18 Meetings, productivity, and the value of IRL networking55:14 Essential advice for new studios today57:16 Community building done right for modern games

Today's guest is Henri Lindgren, a veteran games industry leader, CEO of Kokoon Games, and former head of Lightneer.We unpack the real side of building and leading game studios, from scaling startups to shutting down companies, rebuilding from scratch, and mastering resilience as a founder. Henri shares insights about leadership, culture, and mental endurance in the turbulent games industry, along with practical strategies for bootstrapping, raising angel investment, and avoiding the VC trap. Whether you’re a game dev, entrepreneur, or creative leader, this is a masterclass in staying resilient when the grind gets real.Connect with Henri:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henri-lindgren-9a388b39/Company's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kokoongames/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to The Gaming Playbook Weekly at thegamingplaybook.comChapters:00:00 Intro02:30 Henri’s 16-year journey in gaming and founding Kokoon Games03:44 Why resilience is the most underrated founder skill07:22 The rise and fall of Lightneer: lessons in leadership and culture11:37 Bootstrapping vs VC: how to survive tough markets14:47 Building company culture and values from scratch19:10 Tactical resilience: how to simplify and refocus under pressure22:41 Time blocking, focus, and managing chaos as a founder26:34 Surviving event season and keeping mental reserves31:22 The myth of the solo founder hero33:47 Hiring smart and avoiding premature scaling36:17 CEO loneliness and coping with leadership isolation41:19 Raising angel investment vs VC in 2025’s market45:47 Cap tables, advisory shares, and avoiding equity mistakes49:20 The state of Finland’s games industry and what’s next55:44 Inside Kokoon’s new party game and design inspiration01:02:06 What Henri’s playing right now & closing thoughts

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Hitchcock, co-founder of Other Things Agency, to break down what it really takes to market, launch, and revive games in 2025. From creating game trailers that actually sell, to fixing poor launches and standing out on Steam, this is the conversation every indie developer and studio marketer needs to hear.Matt shares insights from working on campaigns for Elder Scrolls Online, Squirrel With a Gun, and Cloudheim, revealing how studios can build hype, craft effective trailers, and make their store pages convert. We also dive into hiring in the games industry, what great portfolios look like, and the mistakes job seekers keep making.If you’re building, marketing, or relaunching a game, this episode will save you time, money, and frustration.Connect with Matt:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthitch/E-mail: [email protected]: https://otherthingsagency.com/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro03:01 Elder Scrolls Online live-action trailer breakdown05:13 Why trailers matter for conversion on Steam08:25 When to start marketing your game10:30 Working with creators the right way12:10 Squirrel With a Gun – how to go viral with intent17:12 The truth about viral formulas in game marketing19:10 In-engine cinematic capture and authenticity26:58 Why most indies underinvest in marketing33:51 What to do if your game isn’t selling37:12 Key art 101: how visuals sell your game43:02 When and why to refresh your store art45:11 Reviving and re-marketing older games47:15 Continuous marketing done right50:42 Hiring insights: what makes portfolios stand out59:05 Common job applicant mistakes1:02:00 Final advice for devs and creatives#GameMarketing #IndieDev #GameTrailers #SteamLaunch #GamingIndustry

What does it actually take to build a career in games? In this episode, I sit down with Amir Satvat, Director of Business Development at Tencent and the creator of one of the biggest gaming career communities online. Amir’s helped almost 4,000 people land roles in games, all while juggling a full-time job.We talk about the real odds of getting into the industry, how he handled 2,000+ job rejections, what it takes to build visibility on LinkedIn, and the personal cost of becoming a public figure.Whether you’re just starting out or making a career move within games, this conversation dives into how to stay consistent, build systems that last, and turn your passion for games into a long-term career.Connect with AmirLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirsatvat/Website: https://amirsatvat.com/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro01:20 Thanksgiving 2022: How Amir’s journey to help began03:40 Breaking into games after 2,000 job rejections05:50 Family, remote work, and finding balance08:05 Persistence, purpose, and building career momentum11:50 Showing your passion vs. just saying it13:40 “I’ve done everything I can” mindset trap15:40 Networking, visibility, and why no one gets hired by accident20:25 Building relationships and using mentorship to get feedback25:05 The hidden job market and how most hiring really happens28:55 Creation of the Games Jobs Workbook and community34:20 Lessons from hosting and scaling gaming events36:20 Productivity, delegation, and avoiding burnout43:10 Who’s getting hired in games right now (data insights)45:20 Nepotism, referrals, and why trust drives hiring decisions49:00 Handling negativity and staying authentic online55:35 Why criticism doesn’t matter unless it’s from the right people59:00 Giving back without burning out01:02:30 Finding non-games work for gamers01:06:50 Final thoughts and where to connect with Amir#GameCareers #GamingIndustry #CareerAdvice #AmirSatvat #LinkedInGrowth

Ever wondered why some indie games blow up without “doing any marketing”? And why that idea frustrates real game marketers?In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Pappas, founder of RenGen Marketing and host of Indie Game Movement podcast, to unpack what real marketing looks like for indie studios in 2025. Andrew has worked with countless devs across the world to help them understand how to connect with players, build sustainable studios, and turn creative passion into commercial success.We talk about why marketing should start at the concept stage, how to identify player pain points before you even prototype, and why so many devs are leaving money on the table by ignoring empathy-driven marketing. Andrew also breaks down how to build trust-based content, choose the right marketing channels for your strengths, and craft systems that actually scale without burning out your team.This is a practical, no-fluff deep dive into how indie studios can market smarter, connect deeper with players, and build a real business around creativity, not just luck.Connect with Andrew:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewpappas-rengen/Website: https://www.rengenmarketing.com/Podcast: https://www.rengenmarketing.com/podcast/100-2/Newsletter: https://www.rengenmarketing.com/newsletter/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro02:40  Why marketing should start before development07:20 Demand-based vs solution-based thinking12:00 Using player pain points to design better games18:10 The risks of long dev cycles in a fast-changing market23:00 Marketing strategy vs marketing plan explained28:40 Why copying other studios’ marketing doesn’t work34:30 Leading with empathy to connect with players40:10 How to understand your players without being salesy46:50 Choosing the right channels for your indie game51:20 Building a repeatable marketing process57:00 Measuring resonance instead of raw reach1:03:20 Understanding your player’s buying journey1:08:40 Making marketing entertaining and memorable1:11:30 Andrew’s final advice for indie developers#IndieGameMarketing #GameDevPodcast #PlayerFirstDesign #SteamMarketing #IndieDevGrowth

Ever wondered how to scale a gaming studio to over 200+ staff without raising a single dollar of VC funding?In this episode, I sit down with Marcus Holmstrom, Co-Founder and CEO of The Gang, who shares how he built one of the world’s leading Roblox studios, and working with brands like FIFA, Netflix, Amazon, and Wimbledon, while pioneering the rise of UGC gaming.We talk about how Roblox developers are actually making huge money from their games, what’s driving the UGC boom, and why more traditional studios are starting to take notice. Marcus also breaks down how to build a remote-first team, hire the right people, and create games that find product-market fit fast.This is a practical, no-fluff deep dive into the business of modern gaming, from bootstrapping to global scale.Connect with Marcus:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusholmstrom/Website: https://www.thegang.io/Press Kit: https://readymag.website/TheGang/Presskit-2025/Strongman Simulator: https://www.roblox.com/games/6766156863/Strongman-SimulatorConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.net01:10 Intro03:03 How The Gang was founded05:44 What Roblox really is (and why it matters)07:47 Why Grow a Garden became the biggest game ever09:25 How Roblox games make millions13:03 Building 40+ games in 5 years13:44 Working with brands like Netflix, FIFA & Amazon17:40 From hobby project to 300+ employees20:37 Why full-time staff beat contractors22:50 Running remote-first studios pre-COVID26:34 Using Discord as a digital office29:43 Culture, communication & daily structure32:04 Why the age demographics of Roblox matters35:43 Why major studios are now building on Roblox37:54 How monetization really works on Roblox42:40 Welcome to Bloxburg: a case study46:05 Why simplicity wins on Roblox48:05 The Strongman Simulator story (1.5B plays!)53:20 Parents, kids & spending on digital goods58:06 Health-based gaming & motion integration59:07 Hiring tips for scaling studios01:05:29 Final takeaways & how to contact The Gang#RobloxDevelopment #GamingBusiness #UGCgaming #GameDevPodcast #StartupGrowth

Dreaming of breaking into the games industry or scaling your studio?In this episode, John Wright (CEO of Turborilla) shares his journey from leaving accountancy to leading a studio with 200M+ downloads, plus hard-earned lessons on leadership, mobile publishing, and scaling games in today’s competitive market.We cover everything from transferable skills and breaking into gaming, to user acquisition strategies, playable ads, retention metrics, and building a motivated team.This is a raw, practical guide for anyone serious about games, leadership, and publishing.- Learn how to transition careers into gaming with no direct experience- Discover how CEOs manage change, culture, and accountability- Understand why retention and CPI make or break mobile games- Hear real-world lessons from $2B in user acquisition spend- Insider tips on networking, scaling, and sustaining success in gamingConnect with John:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwright1987/Website: https://www.turborilla.com/Mad Skills Motocross 3: https://apps.apple.com/ua/app/mad-skills-motocross-3/id1508275130?l=en, https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.turborilla.bike.racing.madskillsmotocross3&hl=ukConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro01:40 Episode roadmap: leadership, publishing, and game economics02:53 John’s background: identity crisis at 25 & leaving accountancy08:50 Advice for newcomers to the games industry17:40 What being CEO at Turborilla looks like23:16 How to manage change as a CEO26:43 Aligning people with business goals & accountability31:14 Structuring company goals and roadmaps35:15 The “happiness index” and motivating teams40:31 The rise of playable ads and lessons learned45:13 CPI, IPM, and industry metrics explained49:53 Zynga, Rollic, acquisitions & scaling user bases52:52 Profitability vs exits in gaming businesses58:46 What separates a “good” game from a scalable hit01:02:10 Retention, MVPs, and testing strategies01:06:01 Ads vs retention: which comes first?01:09:41 Strategies for new studios in a competitive market01:11:43 Understanding VC theses and their impact on funding01:17:23 Giving back to the gaming community01:21:53 The future of AI in game development01:25:31 Closing thoughts and ways to connect

In this episode of The Gaming Playbook, I sit down with Jon Hanson, founder of Skill Tree Marketing and former EA & Warner Bros. publishing exec, who left the AAA grind to help indie and AA studios thrive. Jon shares the unfiltered truth about indie game marketing: why most devs misunderstand it, how to validate your game without wasting years, and what it really takes to cut through the noise with limited budgets.Expect deep dives into:- The biggest misconceptions about indie game marketing- Why 30–50% of your budget should go to marketing (and how to use it wisely)- How to validate your game early with market research & paid UA- Case study: saving a VR game with better store optimization & ads- Steam wishlists: what they really mean and how to grow them effectively- Using Reddit, Discord & Facebook groups to reach players authentically- Why storytelling and community trust beat polished “corporate” marketing- Building a lean, sustainable business in a tough games marketWhether you’re an indie dev, a marketing lead, or a founder aiming to launch your first game, this episode is a brutally honest masterclass on how to market smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and turn your game into a business that lasts.Connect with Jon:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonhanson1/Website: https://skilltree-marketing.com/Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/SkillTreeMarketing/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro01:23 Why Jon left AAA publishing to help indies03:09 Viral LinkedIn posts about Expedition 33 & Balatro05:30 Building a small but powerful indie-focused team09:02 Biggest misconceptions about game marketing10:39 Why marketing needs 30–50% of your budget11:34 When and how to start marketing your game13:50 Market research tools: AI, Reddit, Discord, LinkedIn16:12 Validating ideas without wasting years19:04 Case study: VR game turnaround with UA & optimization22:24 Paid UA done right vs. going “all in”24:32 Realistic ad spend returns for indie games26:13 Why indies overlook paid UA vs organic marketing28:16 Using UA to test game concepts before building31:55 Steam wishlists: myths, metrics & algorithms35:15 Discovery channels indies overlook (Reddit, Facebook groups, Discord)36:34 Building authentic community trust & engagement42:22 Discord support, authenticity, and winning trust45:16 Repeat customers & building a sustainable studio51:46 Running a business with 8 Chihuahuas & 3 horses54:40 Lessons learned starting a business: don’t go alone57:41 Final advice for indie devs on marketing59:54 How to connect with Jon and Skill Tree Marketing#IndieGameMarketing #GameDevTips #SteamWishlists #IndieDevJourney #GameMarketingStrategy

In this episode of The Gaming Playbook, I sit down with Charlie Czerkawski, veteran game designer behind Shadowgun Legends and Payday 3, and now part of Sharkmob’s design leadership team on Exoborn. Charlie is also the author of Game Economy Design, and he pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build player-friendly yet profitable game economies.Expect deep dives into:- What game economy design actually is (and how it differs from monetization)- The biggest misconceptions developers have about economy design- Vertical vs. horizontal progression, and why many games get it wrong- Lessons from case studies like Clash Royale, Marvel Snap, and The Finals- How to balance free vs. premium currency without alienating players- Why testing “feels good” is harder than it sounds- Career lessons from building his own studio and working across Europe- Writing the go-to book on game economy designWhether you’re an aspiring game designer, a live-ops manager, or a player curious about how games keep you hooked, this episode is a rare inside look into one of the most complex and misunderstood roles in game development.Connect with Charlie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-lees-czerkawski-46293524/His book: https://www.routledge.com/Game-Economy-Design-Metagame-Monetization-and-Live-Operations/Czerkawski/p/book/9781032479903Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro01:40 What is game economy design?05:07 Common misconceptions about game economies07:45 Player experiences & roguelite preferences11:14 Target audiences & mobile vs. hardcore players14:57 Single-player vs multiplayer economy design17:09 Biggest challenges in economy systems22:40 Vertical vs. horizontal progression explained24:23 Marvel Snap’s clean economy breakdown29:04 Cosmetics, battle passes, and player psychology33:35 Balancing free vs. premium currency37:02 Testing whether an economy “feels good”39:31 Charlie’s career journey across Europe43:59 Lessons from different studio cultures45:47 Defending economy design decisions with stakeholders47:46 Leadership, alignment, and team dynamics51:41 Structuring your work week as a creative lead57:31 Why economy design is one of the hardest jobs in game dev59:28 Breaking into game economy design01:01:53 Writing the book: Game Economy Design01:03:40 Closing thoughts and how to connect with Charlie#GameDesign #GameEconomy #MonetizationDesign #VideoGameDevelopment #IndieDev

In this episode of The Gaming Playbook, I sit down with Matej Lancaric, one of the most successful solopreneurs in the gaming industry, who scaled his one-person consultancy past €1.6M in revenue. Matej shares the unfiltered reality of solopreneurship: why you can’t treat it as a backup plan, how to survive the risk of losing big clients, and what it really takes to build and keep a thriving solo business.Expect deep dives into:- Why having a backup plan sets you up for failure- The dangers of relying on one big client (and how to diversify)- How to set boundaries and avoid scope creep- The role of Substack, LinkedIn, and conferences in building trust- Why consistency beats shortcuts every time- Growing without turning into a traditional agency- Building products and revenue streams on the sideWhether you’re a consultant, a service provider, or a founder considering going solo, this episode is a brutally honest masterclass on what it really takes to succeed as a 7-figure solopreneur.Connect with Matej:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matejlancaric/Substack: https://lancaric.substack.com/Matej's podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpu7cyygnCCCkUEMG2-JiHQConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro01:50 From side hustle to €1.6M solo business05:03 Contractors vs. employees: staying lean10:55 Why Matej refuses to build an agency14:34 Getting first clients from articles & conferences19:53 Conference strategy: no selling, just conversations24:44 Public speaking & how to land talks30:04 The risk of big clients & need to diversify33:21 Setting boundaries & avoiding scope creep36:02 Content creation workflow & newsletter strategy47:32 Treating UA budgets like your own money49:15 Building tools & new SaaS experiments51:53 Why now is the best (and hardest) time to go solo55:51 The reality of consulting: pipeline, rejection & persistence59:48 Closing thoughts & where to find Matej#solopreneurship  #gamingbusiness  #useracquisition  #businessreality  #businessgrowth

In this episode, I sit down with Kate Edwards, CEO of Geogrify, culturalisation strategist, and former Executive Director of the IGDA, to unpack the hidden mistakes developers make when building games for a global audience.From Age of Empires getting banned in South Korea, to the backlash around Indiana Jones, to why inclusivity and allegorical distance matter more than ever, Kate breaks down the cultural pitfalls that can derail even the biggest titles, and what studios can do to avoid them.We cover:- Why culturalisation is critical for global game success- The real cost of ignoring stereotypes in game worlds- How allegorical distance helps avoid offensive tropes- What inclusivity in games looks like beyond tokenism- The rise of social media backlash and how to handle it- Lessons from 30+ years across Microsoft, IGDA, and GeogrifyWhether you’re an indie dev, AAA veteran, or just curious about how culture shapes games, this episode is a masterclass in building worlds that truly resonate with players everywhere.Connect with Kate:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geogrify/Check out SetJetters: https://setjetters.com/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netThis September, I’m excited to be attending the @Live Service Gaming Summit, a must-attend event for anyone building, scaling, or evolving live service games.From content cadence and monetisation to backend resilience and community building, the summit dives deep into what it really takes to create games that last.Check out the latest event agenda here: https://www.iqpc.com/events-live-service-gaming-summit/agenda-mc/?utm_source=Harry%20Phokou&utm_medium=External%20Email&utm_campaign=49350.002_LSGSummit_Harry_Phokou_NL_Agenda&utm_term=&utm_content=&disc=&extTreatId=7621796Register here: https://www.iqpc.com/events-live-service-gaming-summit/srspricing/?utm_source=Harry%20Phokou&utm_medium=External%20Email&utm_campaign=49350.002_LSGSummit_Harry_Phokou_NL_Register&utm_term=&utm_content=&disc=PHOKOU20&extTreatId=7621797Use code PHOKOU20 for 20% off your passLet me know if you’re attending too, would love to connect!#LSGSummit #LiveServiceGames #GameDev #GamingIndustry #LiveOps #GameDesign #Monetisation #GamingEventsChapters:00:00 Intro01:46 Who is Kate Edwards? 30+ years in games03:50 From geographer to Microsoft and the games industry07:36 Why culturalisation is critical for global games09:37 Age of Empires banned in South Korea & lessons learned14:10 Should indie developers worry about culturalisation?18:18 The rise of social media backlash in games27:22 Allegorical distance: designing worlds without stereotypes32:06 Inclusivity in games: avoiding generic representation42:28 SetJetters: Kate’s film tourism startup46:48 Leading the IGDA: building a global developer community51:44 What makes a game compelling to players?59:25 Advice for aspiring devs breaking into the industry1:05:57 Networking, hidden job markets & overcoming introversion#gamedev  #gamedesign  #indiegamedev  #gamingcommunity  #videogames  #inclusivitymatters  #culturalisation

In this episode, I sit down with Ada Mockute Jaime, CMO at Nordcurrent (Cooking Fever, Airplane Chefs) to unpack what’s actually working in mobile game marketing in 2025.From UGC that turns into billion-view ads, to TikTok Lives that really convert to installs, Ada breaks down the tactics casual studios can copy tomorrow to scale faster and cheaper.We cover:- How to turn organic UGC into high-performing Spark Ads- Why TikTok Lives do drive installs (and how to track it)- What gameplay actually drives views: fast, chaotic clips that hook instantly- Why Discord isn’t always the right community hub- Smarter brand collabs: from Puma drops to QR “secret menus”Whether you’re a marketer, game developer, or just curious how mobile games reach millions of players, this episode breaks down the strategies shaping game marketing in 2025.Connect with Ada:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamockute/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netThis September, I’m excited to be attending the @Live Service Gaming Summit, a must-attend event for anyone building, scaling, or evolving live service games.From content cadence and monetisation to backend resilience and community building, the summit dives deep into what it really takes to create games that last.Check out the latest event agenda here: https://www.iqpc.com/events-live-service-gaming-summit/agenda-mc/?utm_source=Harry%20Phokou&utm_medium=External%20Email&utm_campaign=49350.002_LSGSummit_Harry_Phokou_NL_Agenda&utm_term=&utm_content=&disc=&extTreatId=7621796Register here: https://www.iqpc.com/events-live-service-gaming-summit/srspricing/?utm_source=Harry%20Phokou&utm_medium=External%20Email&utm_campaign=49350.002_LSGSummit_Harry_Phokou_NL_Register&utm_term=&utm_content=&disc=PHOKOU20&extTreatId=7621797Use code PHOKOU20 for 20% off your passLet me know if you’re attending too, would love to connect!#LSGSummit #LiveServiceGames #GameDev #GamingIndustry #LiveOps #GameDesign #Monetisation #GamingEventsChapters:00:00 Introduction01:01 Fresh Perspective on Gaming Marketing03:35 Biggest Challenges Facing Game Developers in 202505:33 What's Actually Working: The Billion-View Strategy07:31 The Power of User-Generated Content09:34 Scaling UGC for Any Size Game11:32 Doing Influencer Marketing Right14:41 TikTok Live Gaming and Platform Strategy18:23 Why People Watch Others Play Games20:06 Mastering TikTok Trends and Timing23:07 Tracking ROI from Viral Content24:27 The Mystery of Viral Performance27:53 Community Building Strategy by Game Type29:35 Player-Created Communities vs Company-Owned32:48 Expanding Beyond Mobile: Nordcurrent Labs36:14 Global Community Management at Scale37:51 The Brand Partnership Innovation Challenge40:58 Reimagining Brand Partnerships43:49 Practical Partnership Implementation46:03 Breaking Through Corporate Gatekeepers49:28 The First Success Strategy51:35 Live Partnership Pitch: Calling Out Ryanair53:50 Creating Player-Centric Brand Partnerships56:18 Top 3 Marketing Advice for 202558:07 Authenticity in Professional Marketing59:04 Ways to Connect & Wrap-up#MobileGameMarketing #TikTokAds #UGC #CasualGames #UserAcquisition

Think raising VC is the best way to grow a game? Think again.In this episode, I sit down with Ridzki Syahputera — ex-VC and co-founder of PVX Partners — to unpack the truth about game funding, marketing, and scaling in 2025.Whether you're building your first game or working at a studio, this is the stuff nobody teaches: how user acquisition really works, when to raise money (and when to avoid it), and what separates games that scale from games that stall.We break down:- The hidden cost of equity (and how to avoid it)- ROAS benchmarks from 350+ studios- Smarter ways to fund growth — without giving up ownership- What VCs and publishers actually look forWhether you're building a hit, running a studio, or just serious about games as a business, this episode will change how you think about growth.Connect with Ridzki:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ridzkisyahputera/Website: www.pvxpartners.comConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 - Intro & Setup03:40 - The capital intensity of gaming and consumer apps07:50 - The true cost of equity vs. ROAS10:15 - Why founders default to VC and publishers14:59 - How PVX's UA financing model works16:55 - Common reasons studios aren’t ready to scale19:07 - Cohort volatility explained22:12 - What games Ridzki plays & gaming preferences26:13 - Equity vs. loan cost comparison31:22 - Why banks don’t understand gaming businesses33:32 - Real-world example: Grammarly’s financing strategy35:51 - Cultural mindsets on growth: East vs. West40:53 - Why PVX exists & founder motivation44:54 - What games are scaling right now & why48:34 - Global breakdown: Turkey, Israel, China studio strategies51:59 - Founders’ biggest mistake: ignoring scalability55:42 - Harry’s business growth story & org structure1:01:35 - Origin of PVX name & closing thoughts1:05:28 - Where to find Ridzki + Free SaaS tool from PVX#GameDevFinance #UserAcquisition #GamingStartups #ScalingStudios #MobileGamesGrowth

Discover how The Baby in Yellow, an indie horror game born from a game jam, exploded to over 300 million downloads — without any marketing budget or VC funding. In this episode, Greg Lee, co-founder of Team Terrible, shares how content creators, viral design strategies, and long-term thinking helped them turn a side project into a global hit. From leaving Rockstar to building a 12-person indie studio, Greg dives deep into: - The early days of viral traction- Designing for shareability and YouTube- Monetization without selling out- Building a passionate fanbase- Advice for aspiring indie developersIf you're a game dev, indie founder, or creative entrepreneur, this is your blueprint for building something that markets itself.Learn how to go viral, build a studio, and create lasting IP in the age of short attention spans.Connect with Greg:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-lee-40aa1276/X: https://x.com/heyimgregThe Baby in Yellow:Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.TeamTerrible.BabyInYellowiOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-baby-in-yellow/id1570525877Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2291340/The_Baby_In_Yellow/Discord: https://discord.com/invite/teamterribleConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro & How The Baby in Yellow Went Viral01:52 From Rockstar to Indie: Greg’s Journey04:46 The Accidental Game Jam Upload That Changed Everything06:38 YouTube Creators: The Real Marketing Engine09:18 Rip-offs, Mobile Stores & Launching on Android12:36 Strategic Decision: Free on PC, Paid on Mobile15:04 Viral Mechanics: Ease of Access & Minimal Friction17:26 Why Distribution Beats Monetization (Initially)19:38 The “Luck as Dice Rolls” Theory22:04 Building Community: Fan Art, Discord & Cultural Impact26:40 Organic Growth: Word of Mouth & Player Stories30:50 Schoolbooks, Tattoos & IP as Culture33:03 Long-Term Thinking Over Quick Monetization34:46 Lore, Lovecraft & Creative Depth37:15 Balancing Casual Players & Lore-Seekers41:54 Horror Meets Humor: The Game’s Dual Tone44:56 Future Plans & Why the Next Game Might Be Different48:48 How Team Terrible Hires: What They Look For53:42 Advice for Aspiring Game Devs57:25 Final Thoughts & What’s Next#IndieGameDev #TheBabyInYellow #GameDevelopment #ViralGames #GregLee

2025 Indie Game Publishing Playbook w/ Bobby WertheimLooking to land a publishing deal for your indie game in 2025? In this episode, veteran game scout Bobby Wertheim breaks down the chaotic state of game publishing, what publishers are really looking for, and how devs can stand out in a saturated market. We cover everything from pitch mistakes, proving product-market fit, and surviving in an era where 85% of playtime goes to older games. This is a practical, unfiltered guide every game dev should hear before pitching.- Learn how to navigate publisher expectations- Discover why early access can hurt your chances- Hear real-world funding advice and event strategies- Understand what “product-market fit” actually means for games- Insider tips from someone who signs deals todayConnect with Bobby:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-wertheim-00700/Website: https://www.kandofactory.com/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/kandofactory.bsky.socialConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Intro02:15 Why the 2025 games market is brutal04:28 Bobby’s background and experience as a game scout06:00 The evolution of the games market: arcade to digital07:59 The “Old Game Problem” and storefront saturation11:03 Are most of the 19,000 games on Steam any good?13:33 Decline of investment and the end of free money18:00 Publisher risk explained: why their stakes are higher than you think21:52 Rev share, funding realities, and deal structures27:55 What publishers want to see in 2025 (not paper pitches)31:47 How much money can indie devs really get in 2025?33:21 How to fund development before approaching publishers39:00 Early access: why it can hurt your pitch43:47 How to rise to the top of the submission pile46:50 Should you work with a game agent?49:30 Why doing market research is non-negotiable48:50 Why most devs pitch too early and get ghosted50:52 Research the publisher: tailor your pitch and get feedback55:25 Your “3 tries” rule with publishers55:55 Smart strategies for events and pitching01:01:00 Where to find Bobby & wrap-up#GameDev #IndieGames #GamePublishing #SteamGames #PitchToPublishers

Want to break into the gaming industry or level up your career fast?In this episode of The Gaming Playbook, Harry Phokou sits down with Alexander Brazie (World of Warcraft, League of Legends, Ori and the Will of the Wisps) to discuss how to actually get a job in games and get promoted quickly.From the power of playtesting and portfolios to insider hiring mindsets and the truth about nepotism, Alexander unpacks 20+ years of experience.Whether you're a student, self-taught dev, or working in QA looking to transition into design, this episode is your roadmap.Connect with Alexander:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-brazie/Discord: https://gamedesignskills.com/funsmith-club/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xelnath/X: https://x.com/xelnath?mx=2Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.netEnjoyed the episode? Like, comment, and subscribe to help more developers find us.Chapters:00:00 Intro & Alexander’s legendary background (WoW, Riot, Moon Studios)01:45 How Alexander got his first job in games at 1306:08 What successful game design students do differently09:39 How to network and build real industry relationships13:16 What gets people hired (and what doesn't)17:57 The “barrel” employee concept and how to become one21:07 Why learning to implement your ideas gets you hired faster28:46 How to get noticed as an implementer (and land high-impact projects)35:26 Do game designers need to code to get hired?40:16 How to showcase your work as a content designer43:21 How to show you're thinking ahead like a lead designer45:20 Make your system design work visible to employers49:09 Narrative design tips for students breaking into games52:35 Dumb vs. smart ways to ask for a promotion56:40 AAA job interview tips & frameworks1:00:56 Why a game design degree doesn’t make you senior1:05:30 Transitioning to roles outside of games1:07:39 Why documenting your work will change your career1:12:15 Final wrap-up & advice from me#GameDesignCareer #BreakingIntoGames #GamingJobs2025 #PortfolioTips #HowToGetPromoted

Want to turn your Discord community into a revenue-generating machine? In this episode of The Gaming Playbook, I sit down with Tom Gayner, CEO of Levellr, who’s helped Scopely, Krafton, and even the NFL build high-performing Discord communities. We dive into the most common mistakes studios make, why Discord users are 6x more valuable, and how AI is revolutionizing community management. If you’re a game studio, this is your blueprint for building a self-sustaining, monetized community.Connect with Tom:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomgayner/Website: https://www.levellr.com/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights: → Subscribe to the Gaming Rally Newsletter www.gamingrally.net 👉 Enjoyed the episode? Like, comment, and subscribe to help more developers find us.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:44 Why most studios ignore Discord05:48 Data: Discord users = 6x more valuable11:57 Pre-launch Discord strategy15:06 Creating organic player-to-player interaction17:02 Minimum requirements before launching a Discord20:10 What resource investment actually looks like23:04 How Levellr started & why it matters now27:40 AI's breakthrough in community insight grouping30:42 Querying your own Discord like a knowledge base32:28 Fastest way to get 1,000 engaged members34:08 Game/Discord integration examples37:56 Best way to hire a community manager42:32 Is Discord ROI Real or Just Hype?46:16 The Fear of Backlash (And Why It's Wrong)49:25 The Future of Discord in Game Publishing52:34 Getting Insights from Player-Run Discords55:02 Community Advice for Publishers56:18 How to reach Tom & final thoughts#GameDev #DiscordCommunity #RetentionStrategy #CommunityGrowth

Why do most good games still fail today, even with great gameplay?Markus Wilding – former marketing leader at Take-Two, 2K, and Private Division – joins me to reveal why visibility is now more critical than quality... and how developers and publishers must adapt to survive.We unpack how outdated marketing playbooks are killing games, why community building is non-negotiable, and the practical strategies every studio needs to market smarter.Expect deep dives into:- Why 90% of marketing strategies are stuck in the past- How to use influencer marketing correctly in today's market- How early-stage market validation can save your studio- How to build community momentum before launch- Why the future belongs to "snackable fun" games, not bloated AAA- Practical frameworks for self-auditing your game's marketing readinessWhether you're an indie developer, publisher, marketer, or founder, this conversation will shift how you approach game success today.Connect with Markus:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markus-wilding/Website: https://beyondthewall.games/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry insights:→ Subscribe to the Gaming Rally NewsletterEnjoyed the episode? Like, comment, and subscribe to help more developers find us.Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:01 Markus' Transition From AAA to Consulting07:03 Why Visibility Beats Quality Today12:51 Discord, Reddit, and Building Real Player Communities17:01 Why the "19,000 Games on Steam" Stat Is Misleading21:31 The Old Game Problem30:20 Why Graphics No Longer Guarantee Success33:42 Finding the Fun: What AAA Forgets35:00 Why "Snackable Gameplay" Dominates38:48 What Good Marketing Advice Actually Looks Like42:50 Why Understanding Development Is Non-Negotiable48:37 Why Markus Is Optimistic About Gaming’s Future50:25 Connect With Markus#GameMarketing #IndieGameDev #GamingIndustry #MarketingStrategy #CommunityBuilding

In this episode of The Gaming Playbook, I sit down with Peter Fodor, founder and CEO of AppAgent, a top-tier mobile marketing agency behind games from Supercell, Netflix, and Scopely. Peter shares the unfiltered truth about why most mobile games fail to scale, the critical mistakes studios make, and how to win in today's privacy-first, saturated market.Expect deep dives into:- How to test game ideas before writing a single line of code- The role of creative frameworks and hooks in ad success- Why LiveOps is the future of monetization- Managing remote creative teams without losing your mind- How AI is reshaping mobile game marketing and who should be scaredWhether you're a mobile dev, a UA manager, or building the next breakout title, this episode will make you rethink your strategy from the ground up.Connect with Peter:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/petrfodor/⁠Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/⁠Youtube: ⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@hphokou⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry tips – Sign up for the Gaming Rally Newsletter! http://http//gamingrally.net/Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments.Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:04 The State of Mobile Gaming Post-COVID05:20 The Biggest Mistakes Mobile Studios Make07:35 How Small Teams Can Pre-test Game Ideas10:13 Increasing LTV through LiveOps14:13 Are IP & Influencer Collabs Only For Big Studios?16:41 Testing IPs & Understanding Your Audience18:31 The Power of Creative Frameworks23:00 Lessons from Walking Planet & Player Surveys27:15 Timeless Creative Principles (AIDA, KISS)30:42 Why Most Game Ads Fail at the Hook32:32 Hooks vs. Storytelling: The Key Mindset Shift35:04 Managing Creative Teams Remotely39:17 Frameworks: Who Builds Them And How?43:37 How to Build Systems Collaboratively46:07 Hiring Creatives: What to Look For49:28 AppAgent’s Future & Vision53:39 AI's Impact on UA, Creative Production & Future Roles58:02 Advice to Young People Entering Games59:44 Final Thoughts For The Mobile Games Industry#MobileGameMarketing #GameDevTips #UserAcquisition #CreativeStrategy #MobileGames2025

Ever feel like your writing isn’t landing the way you want? Whether you’re posting on LinkedIn, crafting a sales page, or trying to grow an audience, better writing leads to better results.In this episode, I sit down with Matt Barker, a copywriter who’s helped businesses generate over $3M through content. We talk about what really makes writing work - without the fluff, fake authority, or overhyped promises.- How Matt went from corporate marketing to solopreneurship- Why most people write the wrong way online - and how to fix it- The secret to writing content that attracts, nurtures, and converts- How to avoid the “scamfluencer” trap and build real authority- What top creators do differently to make their writing stand outIf you’ve ever wanted to write better, grow an audience, and turn words into results, this episode is for you.Connect with Matt:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjbarker1/Newsletter: https://www.mattbarker.xyz/newsletterConnect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouGet exclusive podcast recaps & industry tips – Sign up for the Gaming Rally Newsletter! gamingrally.netLike, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into copywriting, content marketing, and personal branding.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:26 Matt’s Transition from Corporate to Solopreneurship09:23 The Difference Between Writing Online & High School Writing12:34 How To Start Writing16:24 How to Get Better at Writing (Practical Steps)23:15 Strategic Writing vs. Creative Writing26:13 Crafting a Content Strategy That Works28:57 Overcoming Boredom and Staying Consistent32:48 The Two Main Goals of Writing on LinkedIn35:43 The Power of Emotional Storytelling in Copywriting39:44 The "Scamfluencer" Trend & Why It’s Misleading42:12 How Long Does It Take to Master Online Writing?45:42 Unexpected Side Benefits of Writing47:35 Matt’s Future Plans & Advice to His Past Self52:32 - Where to Follow & Connect with Matt#Copywriting #ContentMarketing #Ghostwriting #PersonalBranding #LinkedInGrowth

Today’s guest is Lara Acosta, a personal branding expert, content strategist, and founder of Literally Academy. Lara went from being unemployed in 2022 to becoming the #1 female creator on LinkedIn, amassing over 300,000 followers and generating millions through her personal brand. She now teaches others how to build a standout online presence, create engaging content, and turn their audience into a thriving business. In this episode, Lara shares her journey of building a personal brand as a woman in business and the strategies that helped her grow to over 200,000 followers on LinkedIn. She dives into the power of self-promotion, why most people struggle with content creation, and how to talk with your audience, not at them, using her SLAY framework. If you're a content creator, business owner, or someone looking to build an authentic personal brand, this episode is for you! Connect with Lara:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/laraacostar/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Laraacosta𝕏: ⁠https://twitter.com/LaraacostarInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/laraacostar/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/⁠Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hphokou⁠Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry tips – Sign up for the Gaming Rally Newsletter!⁠ gamingrally.net⁠Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:37 Building a Personal Brand as a Woman in Business07:12 Celebrate Wins or Keep Moving?11:00 How to Celebrate Wins the Right Way on LinkedIn12:49 Lara’s Cohort Launch: The Power of Self-Promotion18:29 Talking With Your Audience, Not At Them: The SLAY Framework23:17 How to Approach Content Creation as a Beginner31:11 Why Visual Hooks Work (and Why People Get Them Wrong)37:55 Overcoming Impostor Syndrome as a Creator43:40 Why Offline Experiences Are the Future of Personal Branding52:01 Finding Purpose in Business Beyond Money

Today's guest is Hendrik Lesser, president of the European Game Developer Federation and CEO of Remote Control Productions (RCP).Hendrik started out selling and writing about games before spending nearly five years at Take-Two Interactive. In 2005, he founded Remote Control Productions (RCP), which has grown from a small startup into a global network of 16 studios, shipping over 400 projects. Through RCP, he helps developers focus on making great games while handling business operations, and he continues to advocate for the industry through policy, education, and mentorship.In this episode, he breaks down the real challenges facing the gaming industry, from cash flow struggles to why bad business, not bad games, is what really kills studios. He shares hard-earned lessons on studio leadership, competing with old games, and the biggest risks developers need to watch out for. Hendrik also talks about the power of partnerships, how to make remote teams work, and why strong leadership matters more than ever.Whether you're running a studio, breaking into the industry, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at the business of games, this episode is for you!Connect with Hendrik:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hendriklesser/⁠Website: ⁠https://rcp.family/⁠Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/⁠Youtube: ⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@hphokou⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hphokou⁠Get exclusive podcast recaps & industry tips – Sign up for the Gaming Rally Newsletter! ⁠gamingrally.net⁠Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:16 The Reality of the Gaming Industry in 202504:10 Biggest Risks for Studio Leaders This Year10:20 What Is Remote Control Productions (RCP)?16:25 The Old Games Problem: Why It’s Harder to Compete21:46 The Power of Community: RCP’s Approach23:48 Finding Mentors, Building Community, and the Value of Events29:41 Why Bad Business Kills Studios, Not Bad Games34:32 Consensus Culture vs. Strong Studio Leadership40:19 The Role of Partnerships in Game Development43:35 Making Remote Collaboration Work48:06 Why Hierarchy Matters in Remote Teams53:58 Hendrik’s Favorite Part of the Job58:58 Balancing Game Development and Gaming Habits1:05:08 Advice for Gaming Industry Leaders1:06:42 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Game Developers1:08:40 How to Connect with Hendrik

Today’s guest is Ali Farha, a Senior Technical Producer at Star Stable Entertainment.Ali has helped studios build scalable technology, optimize tools, and even port a 12+-year-old game to platforms like Metal, iOS, and Android. With a background in QA and a passion for tech leadership, he’s all about creating high-performing teams and future-proofing game development.In this episode, Ali breaks down what it truly means to be a producer in the gaming industry, sharing how the role adapts to different teams and challenges. He discusses the art of simplifying complexity, balancing long-term vision with immediate priorities, and the difference between coaching and mentoring to empower teams. Ali also shares his personal journey, from breaking into the industry without connections to building skills that set him apart.This episode is perfect for producers, aspiring game developers, or anyone curious about leadership and succeeding in the world of game production.Connect with Ali:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alifarha/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouChapters:00:00 Introduction00:30 Understanding the Role of a Game Producer02:52 Mentoring vs. Coaching: How Producers Boost Productivity07:32 What Makes a Great Game Producer15:10 Balancing Short-Term Tasks with Long-Term Vision32:33 Tough Decisions Producers Face: Saying No and Prioritizing41:01 Breaking into the Gaming Industry: Ali’s Journey44:21 Tips for Aspiring Game Developers49:12 Microlearning, Building a Portfolio, and Networking Tips53:02 Enriching Your Portfolio and Networking59:11 How to Improve as a Producer01:03:04 Rapid-Fire Q&A with Ali

Today’s guest is Alexander Brazie, a veteran game designer with over 20 years of experience and co-founder of Game Design Skills.Alexander has worked on some of the biggest titles in gaming, including World of Warcraft at Blizzard, League of Legends at Riot, and Ori and the Will of the Wisps at Moon Studios. With a track record of building and mentoring design teams, he’s helped ship over 32 projects and is passionate about teaching the craft of game design to the next generation.In this episode, he breaks down how to land your first game design job, what recruiters look for in portfolios, and the mistakes new designers should avoid. Alexander also explains how reverse engineering games can sharpen your design skills and why a strong portfolio matters more than a degree.If you're an aspiring game designer, a student, or someone looking to transition into the industry, this podcast is for you!Connect with Alexander:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-brazie/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xelnath/Twitter/X: https://x.com/xelnath?mx=2Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouChapters:00:00 Introduction01:37 Alexander’s Journey Into Game Design05:14 How to Land Your First Game Design Job08:10 What Recruiters Look for in Game Designers10:10 Mistakes New Designers Must Avoid15:14 Useful Resources for Game Designers16:37 Reverse Engineering Games to Learn Design22:14 Common Mistakes In Game Design Interviews32:25 How To Prepare For Design Tests And Interviews41:12 Q&A: Action Game Design43:41 Creating an Efficient Website Portfolio44:33 Smarter Ways to Reapply After Rejection46:49 Transferring Skills Into Game Design47:13 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

Today’s guest is Jacob Pegs, a solopreneur, mentor, friend, and founder of Modern Maker, a coaching community.After years of web development and running a marketing agency, Jacob went solo and built a business that’s served 250+ clients, 2000+ customers, and $3.4M in client sales. He helps people craft offers that sell and create content that actually works.In this episode, Jacob shares how he built a thriving solo business by crafting simple offers and using power writing to connect with his audience. He explains his "Teach, Share, Show, Invite" method for creating engaging content, tips for crafting your first offer, and how to scale a business without stress.This episode is perfect for solopreneurs, anyone starting a solo business, those looking to improve their LinkedIn content, or anyone struggling to create their first offer.Connect with Jacob:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-pegs/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@most_mojoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mostmojo/Free Offer Doc Template: https://swipemymojo.com/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouChapters:00:00 Introduction02:00 Jacob’s Unique Way of Writing04:21 The Journey to Solopreneurship09:16 Biggest Mistakes Solopreneurs Make13:10 The “Teach, Share, Show, Invite” Content14:54 How to Create Your First Offer19:00 Presenting Your Offer Effectively23:35 The Role of Energy in Content Creation30:05 Understanding the Mind Reader Effect35:18 Turning Leads Into Customers Before Clients40:14 How to Start Monetizing Your Audience45:12 Scaling a Solo Business Without Burnout47:47 Recognizing When You’ve Hit Your Capacity50:42 The Mindset Shift That Shaped Jacob’s Success52:59 How to Connect With Jacob

The Gaming Playbook's first-ever studio panel discussion features three LinkedIn powerhouses: Lara Acosta, Jacob Pegs, and Matt Barker. Episode Sponsor: Aware The LinkedIn Engagement & Analytics Tool Use code "HARRY" for 20% off at: ⁠https://useaware.co/?fpr=harry ⁠ Lara Acosta - #1 UK Female Creator, runs Literally Academy Jacob Pegs - Founder of Modern Maker, a coaching community. Matt Barker - Author of The Digital Writer - Copywriting Course. Collectively, with over 400k followers, they’ve made $1,000,000s of dollars using LinkedIn. In this episode, the panel and host dive deep into the art of content creation and building a business you truly enjoy. Topics include using AI to simplify writing, creating connections through in-jokes, and strategies for making your videos stand out in the LinkedIn feed. They also explore managing time effectively, achieving balance, and crafting high-ticket offers, all while avoiding burnout. Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or someone looking to level up your LinkedIn content game, this episode is packed with actionable insights for you. Connect with the guests:Jacob: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-pegs/⁠Lara: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/laraacostar/⁠Matt: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjbarker1/⁠ Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/⁠Youtube: ⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@hphokou⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hphokou⁠ Chapters: 00:00 Introductions 04:08 How We Use AI to Make Writing Easier 11:07 Why Celebrating Wins Can Be So Challenging 17:52 Building Connection Through In-Jokes and Comments 26:43 Battling Boredom in Content Creation 30:12 The Unexpected Power of Beginner Content 34:55 The Mind Reader Effect For Writing 40:31 What We Learned Selling High-Ticket Offers 47:46 Balancing And Optimizing Business - Matt Barker Example 56:51 Leveraging Time and Sticking to Your Boundaries 01:04:02 Rapid Q&A 01:07:24 How to win using LinkedIn Video 01:11:01 Closing Lessons

Today’s guests are Lara Acosta, Luke Matthews, Matt Barker, Sam G. Winsbury, and Jacob Pegs.Lara is a personal branding expert and founder of Literally Academy, boasting 20M+ impressions and a #1 LinkedIn creator title. Luke is an AI-driven ghostwriter with 175,000 followers, known for teaching how to craft posts with precision in just 7 days. Matt is a solopreneur copywriter who left a corporate job to build a thriving business teaching others to attract dream clients through organic content. Sam is the founder of a personal branding agency that has built over 150 brands, achieving millions in inbound leads for clients. Jacob is a former agency owner turned business coach who scaled his consulting business to $500K+ annually, specializing in content-led growth strategies.And I'm your host, Harry Phokou, I ghostwrite and get LinkedIn done for you.In this episode, we talk about our approaches to writing, managing leads, and using AI in content creation. We also share tips on building connections, making the most of video content, and deciding what really matters on LinkedIn.Whether you're new to LinkedIn or looking to refine your strategy, this episode has practical advice to help you grow your presence and get results.Connect with the guests:Lara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laraacostar/Luke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukematthws/Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjbarker1/Sam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-g-winsbury/Jacob: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-pegs/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouSign up to Gaming Rally Newsletter (Harry Phokou & Ali Farha's weekly newsletter): gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Introduction to LinkedIn Live and Mastermind Session04:25 Discussion on Writing Processes28:11 Managing Leads and Contacts with CRMs37:04 The Significance of Vanity Metrics48:35 The Role of AI in Copywriting and Content Creation52:56 The Power of Video Content on LinkedIn54:54 Finding the Right Balance Between AI and Human Creativity57:17 Unique Services and Expertise Offered by Each Participant01:33:57 Writing with AI and Editing01:35:47 Dealing with Difficult Clients01:40:48 Figuring Out Your Offering01:45:07 Understanding the LinkedIn Algorithm01:50:28 Staying Motivated: Long-Term Vision and Outreach01:56:38 Responding to Comments and Community Building02:06:36 Monetizing Content on LinkedIn02:09:36 Building a Niche Community

Today’s guests are three LinkedIn powerhouses: Nausheen I. Chen, Ryan R. Sullivan, and Danny DelVecchio.Nausheen is a 3-time TEDx speaker and public speaking coach helping leaders communicate with confidence. Ryan is a podcast strategist who’s launched 100+ successful shows for B2B companies. Danny is a video marketing expert helping founders turn LinkedIn videos into lead-generating machines.And I'm your host, Harry Phokou, I ghostwrite and get LinkedIn done for you.In this special episode, each guest brings a genuine question to ask the other guests about their business or LinkedIn.With one hour of deep dives followed by a 30-minute Q&A, this episode is perfect for entrepreneurs, content creators, or anyone looking to level up their LinkedIn game (and have fun doing it).Connect with the guests:Nausheen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nausheenichen/Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sullybop/Danny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannydelvecchio/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouSign up to Gaming Rally Newsletter (Harry Phokou & Ali Farha's weekly newsletter): gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Introduction04:26 Preparing for Industry Changes in 202519:50 Expanding Beyond LinkedIn30:39 How Our Offers Evolved48:30 Working on Your Business vs. In It1:03:15 Choosing One Service from the Panel1:12:25 Time Management for Solopreneurs1:17:27 Managing Clients with Tools Like Notion1:18:49 Public Speaking Tips for Daily Conversations1:20:49 Improving Client Research Over Time1:30:01 Multilingual Public Speaking Tips1:31:31 Final Reflections and Audience Questions

Today’s guest is Kseniia Maiboroda, CEO and Co-founder of Elevatix, an AI-powered LiveOps platform built to help mobile games reach their revenue potential.With a strong high-tech and mobile gaming background, Kseniia previously led technical product management for social casino games at Playtika. Over her seven-year career, she’s delivered innovative solutions for top-grossing games, helping clients like Voodoo see substantial gains in player engagement and purchase conversions. From quick SDK integration to fully automated liveops, Kseniia’s approach allows game studios to optimize revenue rapidly, without the hassle of extensive setup or management overhead.In this episode, Kseniia shares her journey of creating Elevatix, an AI-driven platform that personalizes in-game offers to boost mobile game monetization. She explores the real-world applications of AI in understanding player behavior, crafting custom offers, and enhancing user experience — all without relying on personal data, making these tools accessible even for smaller studios.This episode is ideal for mobile game developers, industry professionals, aspiring founders, and anyone interested in the transformative role of AI in gaming.Connect with Kseniia:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kseniiamaiboroda/Website: https://www.elevatix.io/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouSign up to Gaming Rally Newsletter (Harry Phokou & Ali Farha's weekly newsletter): gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Introduction0:32 What Is Elevatix And Why Was It Created?02:47 The Complexity of AI In Mobile Gaming06:26 Analyzing And Understanding Your Players9:00 Is There a Pattern In Successful Games?10:39 Personalizing Offers For Players17:14 How Much AI Is Used In Mobile Gaming Today22:15 Kseniia’s Journey As a Technical Product Owner In Playtika26:20 How Technical Product Owners Boost Studios30:25 Solving Data Personalization Issues With AI33:36 Kseniia’s Advice For Aspiring Founders36:47 What Drives Kseniia To Do What She Does40:26 Tips For Dealing With Layoffs43:30 What the CEO of Elevatix Is Learning Right Now44:52 Balancing Different Business Roles48:05 Kseniia’s Rules That Save Time52:18 Upcoming Events with Kseniia and Ways To Connect

Today’s guest is Alexis Gresoviac, Founder of Ace Consulting Group and former Managing Director at Blizzard, Gameloft, and Huuuge Games.Alexis has been in the industry for 25 years, growing Gameloft Japan from 1 to 150 people and managing $100M dollars in budgets at Blizzard Korea.In this episode, Alexis reveals the 10 crucial things you need to get right to build a thriving gaming studio. From smart budgeting and decision-making to building teams that fit your culture.You are in for a masterclass!Connect with Alexis:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisgresoviac/Website: https://aceconsultinggroup.biz/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouSign up to Gaming Rally Newsletter: gamingrally.net for Podcast Live announcementsChapters:00:00 Introduction1:55 Streamlining Operations For Growth26:30 Smart Budget Allocation Strategies40:23 Decision-Making Frameworks For Leaders50:35 Driving Innovation In a Competitive Landscape01:14:50 Building High-Performing Teams01:27:35 Effective Hiring For Cultural Fit01:38:40 Managing Cash Flow For Stability01:49:35 Crafting a Clear Strategic Vision02:00:00 Creating a Strong Company Structure02:11:20 Understanding Market Needs02:16:00 Final Q&A

Today’s guest is Johan Tjäder, the CEO and founder of RankOne, the top platform for gamers and creators to share their passion for games.Johan has grown RankOne into a platform trusted by gamers and developers alike, with over 1.5 million games analyzed thanks to player-driven insights. His platform helps game companies understand their audiences better by offering authentic, cross-platform data that tracks player behavior across time. By empowering players to contribute their experiences, Johan provides invaluable tools for developers looking to reduce risk and create games that resonate in today’s competitive market.In this episode, he shares how his platform has become a game-changer by providing deep, player-driven insights from over 1.5 million games. He explains how RankOne’s data helps developers better understand player behavior and create more engaging games.This podcast is perfect for game developers, game companies, and anyone interested in how data can shape game design.Connect with Johan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johantjader/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouSign up to Gaming Rally Newsletter (Harry Phokou & Ali Farha's weekly newsletter): gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Introduction3:20 The Importance of Why and How We Play Games8:49 How Data Can Help Get Your Game Published13:27 Johan’s Journey: How RankOne Was Born17:08 Collecting Data from 1.5 Million Gamers21:34 How Companies Can Benefit From This Data24:41 Surprising Insights from RankOne’s Data29:00 How Data Can Completely Change Your Game Strategy35:58 First Thing To Do When Building a Game39:56 Risks of Being Too Data-Driven43:05 Partnering With RankOne To Test Your Game44:50 How It Works: Johan’s RankOne Profile49:16 Ways To Reach Out

Today’s guest is Pontus Mahler, co-founder of Agora Gaming Partners, a global investment bank and advisory firm focused on video gaming.With over a decade of experience in creating, managing, and driving projects within gaming & esports, he's now focused on creating business opportunities in the video game industry and aiding talented gaming startups in reaching the next levels with guidance, and collaboration with investment & publishing partnerships.In this podcast, he dives into the 2024 investment landscape and the rights and wrongs of dealing with publishers. With experience reviewing thousands of pitch decks, Pontus shares what actually works when securing funding and offers practical advice on negotiating with publishers. We also explore the key differences between VCs and publishers, and whether angel investment is a viable option, wrapping up with a rapid-fire Q&A.This podcast is ideal for game developers, indie studios, double- and triple-A companies, and anyone looking to better understand the funding process, pitch strategies, and publisher negotiations.Connect with Pontus:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pontusmahler/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouSign up to Gaming Rally Newsletter (Harry Phokou & Ali Farha's weekly newsletter): gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Introduction01:45 Analyzing Investment Landscape of 202416:17 VCs vs. Publishers: Funding Your Game Development28:54 Are Microtransactions and DLCs Important In Pitches35:26 Do Publishers Fund Only Completed Games Today?38:54 The Dos and Don'ts of Deals with Publishers49:59 Angel Investment as a Game Funding Option59:01 Learning More About Pontus And What He Does01:06:40 Rapid-Fire Q&A with Pontus Mahler01:23:28 Negotiating Better Deals With Publishers and Platforms01:30:05 Presenting Playtest Data In a Pitch Deck01:33:15 Ways To Connect With Pontus

Today's guest is Callum Godfrey, the Head of Third Party Publishing at nDreams.With over 20 years in the gaming industry, Callum has worked with major players like Activision, EA, King, and Wargaming. He’s been involved in everything from AAA titles to mobile games and now focuses on the fast-evolving world of VR. These days, he’s back to being hands-on with game teams, leading third-party publishing at nDreams, and pushing the boundaries of VR gaming.In this podcast, he shares his journey through the gaming industry, offering valuable insights on understanding your audience, prioritizing LiveOps, and pitching to publishers. He also explores the future of AAA games and provides practical tips for handling layoffs.Whether you're a game developer or part of a gaming studio aiming to publish your game or implement LiveOps effectively, this podcast is for you.Connect with Callum:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/callum-godfrey-89a42b4/Connect with Harry:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hphokou/Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@hphokouInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hphokouSign up to Gaming Rally Newsletter (Harry Phokou & Ali Farha's weekly newsletter): gamingrally.netChapters:00:00 Introduction3:11 Why Knowing Your Audience Is Key8:45 How To Effectively Understand Your Audience13:33 Breaking Down Audience Data With Three Key Pillars19:26 Why It’s Worth Prioritizing LiveOps Early24:36 Essential Roles and Tools for Building a LiveOps Game32:27 What Does the Future Look Like For Triple-A Games?38:36 The Do’s and Don’ts of Pitching to a Publisher49:40 Survival Tips For Those Laid Off57:16 Ways To Connect and Reach Out to Callum