Coffee with a Dev

Bec
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Welcome to Coffee with a Dev, where we have coffee with an indie game developer and ask them all about game dev life! From the highs of getting featured on IGN to the lows like doing taxes, we'll talk about it all with new guests each fortnight!

Episodes

  1. APR 23

    The honest truth about becoming a game developer | Mark Smith

    In this episode of Coffee with a Dev, Mark Smith shares his journey from childhood game development to releasing his latest game, Pie in the Sky. He discusses the challenges of marketing indie games, the influence of classic titles, and the importance of resilience and learning from each release. Check out Monster Shop Games here: https://monstershopgames.com/Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/ For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.au Become a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCuj Want to support what we do? Become a Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheIndieBrew Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Coffee Preferences 04:04 Mark's Journey into Game Development 13:12 Influential Games and Inspirations 19:58 Transitioning to Game Design Education 27:02 Marketing Challenges and Lessons Learned 29:26 The Randomness of Marketing 34:01 Releasing 'Pie in the Sky' 39:07 The Concept Behind 'Pie in the Sky' 46:32 The Indie Developer Community 49:58 Surprises in Game Development 57:25 Highlights of the Development Journey 01:02:23 Challenges in Game Development 01:03:07 Balancing Life and Game Development 01:06:40 The Challenge of Staying Focused 01:09:03 Strategies for Time Management 01:12:12 Exploring New Game Ideas 01:17:11 The Importance of Playing Games 01:25:38 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers

    1h 19m

  2. APR 16

    Groundhog Day in the 80s: Making a Supernatural Kiwi Adventure

    Can a background in commercial tech and experiential installations prepare you for the world of indie game development? For Sam of Mad Carnival Games, the shift was surprisingly natural. This week, we explore the business side of "making it" as an indie dev. Sam breaks down how managing budgets and deadlines for major clients paved the way for creating her own IP, How Was Your Day. We talk about the importance of word-of-mouth, the reality of going full-time on a passion project, and the "bittersweet" journey of seeing a protagonist grow through a self-taught writing process. Check out How Was Your Day here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3235570/How_Was_Your_Day/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sam and Mad Carnival Games 03:01 The Journey into Game Development 06:00 Influences from Childhood Gaming 09:05 Concept and Setting of 'How Was Your Day' 12:02 The Creative Process and Writing Journey 14:52 Balancing Work and Passion Projects 17:53 Daily Life and Inspirations 21:02 Reading and Influences on Storytelling 21:41 The Joy of Reading and Its Impact 22:41 Transitioning to Game Development 24:35 Surprises in Writing for Games 25:14 Challenges of Game Writing 27:43 Character Development and Emotional Arcs 28:40 Personal Connection to the Game 30:28 Feedback and Reader Engagement 32:15 Pacing Challenges in Game Writing 34:19 Integrating Mini Games for Engagement 38:54 Highlights and Moments of Validation 41:44 The Challenge of Authentic Voice Acting 44:50 Community Engagement and Feedback 46:49 Cultural Authenticity in Game Design 49:46 Exploring Cultural Nuances and Reader Engagement 52:49 Balancing Scope and Vision 55:53 Universal Themes and Cultural Reception Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/ For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.au Become a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCuj Want to support what we do? Become a Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheIndieBrew

    56 min

  3. APR 9

    Why Being an Indie Developer is "A Fool's Hope" (But We Do It Anyway)

    In this episode, Rick Salter from Hojo Studio shares his journey into game development, the influence of early indie games, and the creative process behind his unique, humorous titles like Brave Cart. Check out Hojo Studio here: https://www.hojostudio.com.au/ Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/ For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.au Become a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCujWant to support what we do? Become a Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheIndieBrew Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Coffee Preferences 01:47 Rick's Journey into Game Development 05:34 The Evolution of Indie Games 11:09 Nostalgia and the Gaming Experience 16:39 Balancing Game Development and Day Jobs 20:14 The Importance of Playing Games 21:52 Inspiration from Comedy and Satire 23:28 Game Development Approaches: Concept vs. Mechanics 25:45 Brave Cart: Inspiration and Conceptualization 29:59 The Serious Thread: Corporate Waste and Empathy 30:51 Surprises in Game Development 36:05 Highlights of Game Development Journey 38:22 Challenges in Indie Game Development 43:04 Navigating Visibility and Marketing 43:58 Choosing the Right Platform for Indie Games 44:42 The Secrets of Indie Game PR 45:49 The Mindset Shift for Effective Marketing 47:34 The Reality of Game Development as a Business 51:03 Unexpected Responsibilities of Game Developers 55:53 Lessons from Game Events and Expos 59:15 Navigating Trends in Game Development 01:02:39 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers

    1h 6m

  4. APR 2

    Why Puzzle Games Need Better Stories with Tana Tanoi

    In this episode of Coffee with the Dev we chat with Tana, the developer behind Shape Sender Deluxe. Tana shares his journey into game development, starting from his childhood experiences with modding games to his professional career at Dinosaur Polo Club. The conversation delves into the inspiration behind Shapes Sender Deluxe, the challenges of indie game development, and the importance of narrative in puzzle games. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Tana and Coffee Preferences 05:07 Transitioning from Hobbyist to Professional Developer 10:14 Overview of Shape Sender Deluxe 14:49 Funding and Financial Decisions in Game Development 19:42 The Role of Publishers in Game Development 24:14 Vision for Dead Teapot: A Unique Game Studio 30:03 A Day in the Life of a Studio Director 35:20 Highlights and Achievements in Game Development 40:18 Reaching Alpha: A Major Milestone 45:03 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/ For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.au Become a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCujWant to support what we do? Become a Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheIndieBrew

    50 min

  5. MAR 26

    How Strict Parents led to a game about Demons - with Kurt Tikoft

    In this episode of Coffee with a Dev, Kurt Tikoft shares his journey into game development, discussing his early influences, the impact of formal education, and the challenges he faces while developing his game, Your Holy and Virtuous Heretic. Check out Your Holy and Virtuous Heretic here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2621030/Your_Holy__Virtuous_Heretic/ Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/ For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.au Become a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCuj Want to support what we do? Become a Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheIndieBrew Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Coffee with the Dev 01:22 Kurt's Journey into Game Development 06:14 Influential Games in Kurt's Life 11:08 The Evolution of Gaming and Indie Development 19:08 Formal Education vs. Independent Projects 26:35 The Impact of Game Jams on Development 30:06 The Importance of Feedback in Game Development 30:36 Balancing Game Development and Day Jobs 33:27 Navigating the Risk-Averse Game Industry 35:48 Time Management and Scheduling Challenges 38:20 Motivation and Discipline in Game Development 40:57 Introducing Your Holy Inverted Heretic 42:37 The Concept and Inspirations Behind the Game 46:16 Cultural Perspectives on Demons and Their Representation 52:01 Humanizing Demons: A Flawed Historical Document 55:38 Surprises in Game Development 56:15 Creative Limitations and Artistic Exploration 01:02:33 Challenges in Game Development 01:11:16 Personal Growth and Development Insights 01:13:29 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers

    1h 19m

  6. MAR 19

    From Intern to Innovator: Anna's Path to Becoming a Game Dev

    In this episode of Coffee with the Dev, we chat with Anna from Lemon Jolly Games about her journey into game development, her experiences in the industry, and her upcoming game, Apothecary of City X. Check out Apothecary of City X here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3745950/Apothecary_of_City_X/ Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/ For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.au Become a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCuj Want to support what we do? Join our Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheIndieBrew Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Anna and Lemon Jolly 01:18 Anna's Journey into Game Development 03:18 Early Gaming Experiences and Influences 06:10 The Role of Literature in Game Design 08:59 Formal Education in Game Design 10:40 Internship Experiences and Career Growth 14:28 Problem Solving in Game Design 17:28 Transitioning from Indie to AAA Game Development 22:35 Starting Lemon Jolly and Apothecary of City X 25:20 Concept and Themes of Apothecary of City X 31:20 Fantasy Influences in Game Design 32:18 The Emotional Core of Game Characters 33:44 Challenges of Indie Game Development 34:05 Balancing Work and Life in Game Development 36:57 Avoiding Burnout as a Creator 37:53 Experimenting with Productivity 39:35 The Power of Writing Things Down 41:47 The Catharsis of Game Development 44:06 The Importance of Community in Game Development 49:42 What Makes Good Game Design? 55:18 Reflections on Recognition in Game Development 58:45 The Purpose of Creation 01:03:14 Highlights and Career Milestones 01:07:06 Navigating the Chaos of Game Development 01:11:52 Advice for Aspiring Developers 01:13:49 Empowering Women in the Industry 01:21:00 The Impact of Community and Support 01:25:37 The Rise of Video Essays and Shared Experiences #indiedev #gamedev #indiegames #coffeewithadev

    1h 26m

  7. MAR 5

    From Dreams to Development: Bohdan's Game Dev Journey

    In this episode of Coffee with the Dev, Bohdan, a game developer from Ukraine, shares his journey into game development, discussing his early inspirations, the challenges he faces, and the development of his game, ShopCrush. Check out Shop Crush here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2961120/Shop_Crush/Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.auBecome a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCujChapters00:00 Introduction and Coffee Talk01:43 Bohdan's Journey into Game Development05:38 Influences and Inspirations in Gaming10:03 First Steps in Game Development12:34 Balancing Passion Projects and Full-Time Work18:40 Overview of ShopCrush22:29 The Unique Blend of Genres in ShopCrush29:10 Challenges Faced in Game Development32:23 Highlights and Player Feedback39:35 Trends and Community Influence43:34 Advice for Aspiring Developers48:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations#coffeewithadev #indiegames #indiedev

    52 min

  8. FEB 19

    How the Victorian High Country Inspired Her to Make a Game with Maddy Clute

    In this episode of Coffee With a Dev, Maddy Clute shares her journey from being a ski instructor to becoming a game developer, detailing her experiences in creating 'Call of the Golden Valley'. She discusses the inspiration behind the game, the challenges of transitioning from player to creator, and the importance of funding and team dynamics in game development. Maddy emphasizes the significance of enjoying the creative process, handling feedback, and setting realistic success criteria. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring developers, highlighting the need for self-belief and the realities of the indie game industry.Check out Call of the Golden Valley here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2131660/Call_of_the_Golden_Valley/Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.auBecome a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCujChapters00:00 Introduction and Coffee Talk01:04 Maddy's Journey into Game Development09:55 Inspiration Behind Call of the Golden Valley14:25 The Transition from Solo to Team Development16:51 Navigating the Business Side of Game Development19:48 Life After Launch: Balancing Development and Maintenance23:57 The Surprising Realities of Game Development26:20 Applying for Screen Australia Funding31:32 The Pressure of Funding and Team Responsibility33:54 The Unglamorous Process of Shipping a Game36:02 The Impact of Lighting and Sound in Game Development37:28 Lessons Learned from Game Development40:19 The Importance of Playtesting and Feedback41:17 Showcasing the Game: Events and Festivals43:54 Navigating Player Feedback Post-Launch47:17 Defining Success Beyond Sales49:27 The Joy of Game Development Process52:27 Transitioning to Collaborative Work53:51 Future Game Ideas and Creative Process01:00:02 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers

    1h 5m

  9. FEB 5

    Why Scrapping His Entire Game Was the Best Choice with Liam Flannery

    In this episode of Coffee with the Dev, host Bec talks with Liam, a game developer behind Factory 95. They discuss Liam's journey into game development, his childhood gaming experiences, and the transition from a corporate job to pursuing game development full-time. Check out Factory 95 here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3987250/Factory_95/ Visit The Indie Brew for more Indie game content! https://theindiebrew.com.au/ For business enquiries or coverage requests contact: hello@theindiebrew.com.au Become a Brewskie! Join our discord: https://discord.gg/7fMPsjRCuj Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Game Development Journey 02:58 Childhood Gaming Influences 05:51 Transitioning to Game Development as a Career 08:37 Lessons Learned in Game Development 11:36 The Importance of Project Management 14:40 Collaborating with Others in Game Development 17:26 Daily Life of a Game Developer 23:21 The Importance of Game Research 25:34 Learning Through Play: Insights from Game Testing 27:25 The Role of Tutorials in Game Design 29:00 Understanding Game Goals and Player Engagement 31:48 Navigating the Business Side of Game Development 33:38 Lessons from Cardinal Descent: A Cautionary Tale 37:01 Valuable Lessons from Game Development Experience 39:03 The Value of Small Projects in Game Development 42:52 Introducing Factory 95: The Concept Behind the Game 43:27 Game Jams and Creative Iteration 46:14 Positive Feedback and Market Research 49:57 Balancing Passion and Business 01:00:49 Highlights of Game Development 01:04:14 Marketing Strategies and Media Outreach 01:06:10 Impact of Marketing on Game Launches 01:07:59 Lessons Learned in Game Marketing 01:10:26 The Importance of Game Identity 01:11:28 Effective Marketing Strategies for Indie Games 01:14:47 Social Media vs. Traditional Marketing 01:16:35 Evaluating Game Quality for Showcases 01:19:27 Future Plans for Factory 95 01:23:20 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers

    1h 27m
  • 9 Episodes

About

Welcome to Coffee with a Dev, where we have coffee with an indie game developer and ask them all about game dev life! From the highs of getting featured on IGN to the lows like doing taxes, we'll talk about it all with new guests each fortnight!

Information

  • Creator
    Bec
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Bec
  • Show Website
    Coffee with a Dev