Deconstructor of Fun Deconstructor of Fun

Join host Mishka Katkoff on the Deconstructor of Fun podcast as he talks with Solsten founders Joe Schaeppi and Bastian Bergmann. They discuss the latest gaming industry trends, the importance of change management, and the critical role of audience resonance. Learn how AI enhances studio efficiency, the value of a measured approach, and how Solsten uses psychological data to improve user experiences, along with insights from unique data sets.





00:00 Introduction

01:08 Market Overview and Challenges

06:44 Attention and Engagement in Gaming

12:29 Marketing and Brand Positioning

32:05 The Role of IP in Gaming

39:39 Fail Fast Mythology

44:36 Web3 Gaming Revolution

46:19 Marketing and Game Development Synergy

49:41 The Lean Startup Method in Gaming

57:52 AI and Efficiency in Game Development

01:20:30 New Revenue Models in Gaming

01:23:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


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So much news, and so little time!

The crew discusses the acquisition of Singularity 6 and how it's one of the first superfunded star-studded studios that burned all the capital raised only to be acquired at a micenut valuation.

We discuss Netflix Games' latest spin on how all is great despite the head of games leaving the organization and replacement still to be announced.

And we cap the episode off with Amazon Games' strategy debate.

your hosts: Jen Donahoe, Eric Kress, Phillip Black and Michail Katkoff


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Industry's leading newsletter: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe

Join host Michail Katkoff on the Deconstructor of Fun podcast as he delves into the remarkable career journey of Kieran Donovan, founder of k-ID. Explore how Kieran transitioned from a screenwriter to a lawyer and then to a successful startup founder, raising $51 million in just 9 months.

Discover what k-ID is all about, a pioneering platform aimed at creating safe online gaming experiences for youth, and their significant traction with major investors like Lightspeed Ventures and a16z. Learn about the complexities of gaming regulation, strategic decisions in venture capital, and the importance of robust youth online safety solutions.

Don't miss this insightful conversation!


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With Miska discovering the true meaning of Tinto Verano, the crew convenes to celebrate Eric’s promotion to senior consultant. Meanwhile, Jen reminds us that Rocket League isn’t a real football game, and Eric finally finds a VC investment with scale. Phil stares down Fortnite numbers while Laura reminds us Switch is the train that keeps chugging. Plus, anime girl horse racing.



00:00 Intro03:05 Shills08:39 Apple's Legal Troubles with the EUDMA12:52 FIFA and Rocket League Partnership15:01 Investments and M&A26:47 Executive Departures and Speculations33:22 Tango Closure Mystery34:21 Dungeon Fighter's Mobile Success36:10 New Games47:46 Nintendo Direct Highlights57:32 Epic's Mobile Strategy and Fortnite's Future


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Sensor Tower State of Gaming 2024
www.sensortower.com/state-of-gaming-2024

Data.ai Mobile App Market Forecast 2030

www.data.ai/en/go/mobile-app-market-forecast/

Don't miss out on this in-depth discussion — subscribe to the Deconstructor of Fun Podcast and newsletter for more expert insights.

https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe

In this episode, Lexi Sydow, Director of Corporate Marketing and Insights at Sensor Tower, unleashes her mobile gaming market insights. She covers significant trends in mobile gaming and marketing, app vs game dynamics, ad spending on TikTok and YouTube, regional differences, IP collaborations, and the future of subscription gaming. Gain valuable insights on market normalization post-COVID and ATT changes, and learn about the trajectory of apps surpassing gaming revenues.



00:00 Introduction

02:58 Mobile Gaming Market Trends

07:26 Regional Differences in Mobile Gaming

11:23 Impact of ATT and Post-COVID Market

21:38 Subscription Gaming: Netflix and Apple Arcade

25:48 Top Games and Publishers

28:56 Marketing Trends in Mobile Gaming

31:01 UGC Ads and Community Engagement

31:21 Monopoly Go's Strategic Community Targeting

34:53 The Power of Social Media Platforms in Gaming Ads

36:27 The Rise of IP and Brand Integration in Games

39:41 Transmedia Trends 

44:11 Apps vs. Games

58:42 Marketing Predictions 

01:04:50 Final Thoughts


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They say a week without TWIG is like a beach without sand. Well, it seems like there's sand in Squad Busters' growth engine. The game had the most bombastic launch of any Supercell game and is now experiencing the fastest fall as well. The crew analyzes early numbers and potential reasons behind the rapid decline.

We also talk about Netflix Games, which seems to have ended its honeymoon period and is now having a come-to-Jesus moment after big investments and not-so-big returns.

your hosts: Mishka Katkoff, Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe and Phillip Black


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