Deconstructor of Fun

Deconstructor of Fun
  • 4.5 (89)
  • VIDEO GAMES
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Deconstructor of Fun

Deconstructor of Fun podcast is created by games professionals for games professionals. We explore the business side of the games industry with the goal of bringing listeners content that is relevant, insightful, and entertaining on a weekly basis. Hosts: Michail Katkoff @mkatkoff www.linkedin.com/in/michailkatkoff/ Eric Kress @ekress www.linkedin.com/in/erickress/ Laura Taranto @laurataranto www.linkedin.com/in/laurataranto/ Phillip Black @econosopher www.linkedin.com/in/phillip-black-economist/ Jen Donahoe @Jen_Donahoe www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferdonahoe Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

  1. TWIG #313 Netflix Games Gets Jacked while the Game Awards Jacks Up Numbers

    21 HR. AGO

    TWIG #313 Netflix Games Gets Jacked while the Game Awards Jacks Up Numbers

    We kick things off with a deep dive into what separates different Nordic countries with regional experts Phillip Black and Mishka Katkoff. Next, we tackle Squad Busters’ ambitious new update. Will it be enough to reverse its decline, or is it too little, too late? Then, there will be chaos in the streaming world as Netflix Games gets GTAd! What went down, and what does it mean for the company’s gaming ambitions? Only Kress can give it to us. Finally, Jen takes us through the Game Awards (aka. the Jeff Keighley Awards) — the wins, the snubs, and what it all means for the industry. Hosts: Mishka Katkoff, Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe, and Phillip Black. 02:07 Supercell's LinkedIn Antics 03:07 Nordic Rivalries Explained 05:09 Event Updates 07:43 Path of Exile Monetization 08:32 Roblox and UEFN Profitability 12:11 Epic Games and Telefonica Deal 15:52 AppLovin's Ad Strategy Change 16:43 Brawl Stars and Toy Story Collaboration 17:25 Netflix Games Licensing Issues 26:07 Build a Rocket Boy Acquisition 28:28 Beam Ventures Gaming Fund 33:40 Game Updates: Path of Exile 2, Marvel Rivals, Delta Force 37:57 Pokemon TCG Pocket's Performance 39:56 Pokemon Go vs. TCG Pocket 44:07 Royal Kingdom's Launch and Comparison 49:42 Supercell's Squadbusters Update 57:17 Game Awards 2024 Highlights --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    1h 13m
  2. 259. From Segmentation to Personalization: The SciPlay Approach to Success

    5 DAYS AGO

    259. From Segmentation to Personalization: The SciPlay Approach to Success

    Cameron Stewart, Group Vice President at SciPlay, shares valuable insights on the robust growth of social casinos, emphasizing retention and monetization strategies. We explore how SciPlay operates with low concentration levels in the market, the importance of personalizing user experiences, and the innovative approaches driving their success. Get an insider's look at the strategic decisions, including talent investment and the unified infrastructure for game development, that make SciPlay a leader in the field. Additionally, Cameron speaks on the benefits and challenges of a return-to-office workplace culture and the strategic value of acquisitions and portfolio diversification. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:28 Understanding the Social Casino Market 03:15 Challenges and Strategies in Game Development 06:15 Segmentation to Personalization 10:25 Retention and Engagement Metrics 16:39 Monetization and Live Operations 33:09 Direct-to-Consumer Strategies 37:19 Exploring the Social Casino Market 38:32 Partnerships and Strategies 40:37 Innovations and Player Behavior 42:11 The Role of IP in Casino Games 43:45 Player Engagement and Retention 51:05 Work Culture and Talent Investment 59:04 Strategic Acquisitions and Diversification 01:06:18 Key Learnings and Advice 01:10:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Social Casino, Monetization, Retention, Personalization, Gaming KPIs, Player Experience, Live Operations, Direct to Consumer, Market Trends, SciPlay, social casino, game development, innovation, acquisitions, player engagement, market strategy, IP integration, casino industry --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    1h 13m

  3. DEC 12

    TWIG #312 THE GREATEST WEEK IN F2P. EVER? EVER!

    With Miska set on another jet, Q5 launches in earnest with Marvel Rivals, Delta Force, Path of Exile 2, Infinity Nikki, and Girlsfront Line 2. Oh my, oh my. Kress gives his full review of Infinity Nikki’s costumes, while Jen pulls “Franchise” Beetlejuice. How can Marvel Rivals cross-promote in every Marvel game?  Adam pours cold water retention down the acquisition’s back while Phil tries to light the Chinese game industry fire while wearing a tight desert camouflage shirt (?). 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:56 Meet the Hosts 01:33 Secret Level Screening Review 06:13 Game Exec Supper Club Announcement 07:47 Industry News and Corrections 09:55 Investment and M&A Updates 12:36 New Game Releases and Performance 34:43 Mastery Issues in the Game 35:11 Unique Selling Points and Differentiation 35:46 Honeymoon Phase and Meta Development 36:56 Onboarding and Mastery Curve 39:22 Marvel Cross-Promotions and IP Management 44:32 Path of Exile 2: Strategy and Success 53:59 Delta Force: A Battlefield Clone 58:12 Fortnite's New Tactical Shooter 01:00:59 Infinity Nikki: A Unique Pivot 01:07:36 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    1h 8m
  4. 258. Unlocking Attribution with TikTok and AppsFlyer

    DEC 11

    258. Unlocking Attribution with TikTok and AppsFlyer

    Mishka Kaktoff is joined by Steve Lockwood from TikTok and Roy Yanai from AppsFlyer, who share their extensive insights on evolving attribution techniques, overcoming challenges in the privacy landscape, and future-proofing measurement strategies.  This episode is packed with valuable information that can help improve your campaign performance, game design, and overall marketing outcomes.  Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Mobile Marketing Attribution 01:11 Guest Introductions 04:11 Evolution of Attribution 07:40 Challenges in Attribution 08:59 TikTok's Role in Attribution 12:12 Debate on Last Click Attribution 18:02 Incremental Testing and Media Mix Modeling 31:29 Questioning the Truth in Marketing 32:35 The Evolution of Attribution Methods 33:28 Advertiser Perspectives on Ad Networks 35:07 The Importance of Views in Advertising 36:57 TikTok's Unique Role in Advertising 42:44 Future-Proofing Measurement Strategies 45:28 The Role of Privacy in Measurement 56:06 Success Stories in Attribution 01:01:57 Future Trends in Measurement 01:08:38 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    1h 10m
  5. 257. Up Down Up with Kim Nordström

    DEC 9

    257. Up Down Up with Kim Nordström

    Up Down Up is now available as an audiobook on Audible! https://www.amazon.com/UP-DOWN-companies-succeed-others/dp/B0CR7T9DPT In this episode, Kim Nordstrom joins the podcast to discuss his journey in the gaming industry, from releasing his first game in 1995 to significant roles at PlayStation, King, and Paradox. The conversation delves into topics from his book 'Up, Down, Up,' exploring what it takes to build a successful game company, the importance of culture and psychological safety, and the challenges of transitioning between growth and maturity phases. Kim also shares insights from his interviews with top industry leaders and how these experiences have shaped his current role as CEO of PlayerUnknown Productions. 01:05 Kim Nordstrom's Career Journey 03:06 The Making of 'Up, Down, Up' 06:31 Exploring Company Growth Patterns 10:19 The Importance of Company Culture 30:16 Understanding Psychological Safety 43:03 The Importance of Actions Over Words 44:10 Changing Culture Through Leadership 46:20 The SEAL Team Leadership Experiment 47:32 Scaling Teams and Maintaining Culture 48:57 Principles and Values in Leadership 53:34 The Role of Timing in Success 58:58 Navigating Growth and Maturity Phases 01:11:25 Challenges of Innovating Within Established Companies 01:24:32 Reflections on Leadership and Wisdom 01:28:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    1h 30m

  6. DEC 5

    TWIG #311 Musk Enters the Game, Archero 2 Aims for the Bullseye, PlayStation Goes Portable

    In this episode of This Week in Games, we dive into the intriguing rumors surrounding a potential new PlayStation Portable and discuss Elon Musk’s rumored AI game studio, which could reshape innovation in the space. On the business side, we analyze the closure of Ubisoft studios and the enduring popularity of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.  In mobile gaming, we spotlight Habby’s big launches, including Capybara Go and Archero 2, before discussing Path of Exile 2's early access success.  Plus, we compare two heavyweight Eastern shooters, Marvel Rivals and Delta Force, and examine why so many new MOBAs struggle to gain traction.  Don’t miss this deep dive into the industry’s most exciting stories! Chapters: 02:48 Shills 04:17 Hybrid Casual Playbook Release 04:38 App Monetization Report 10:30 Fortnite's Record-Breaking Season 14:29 PlayStation Portable Rumors 16:47 Elon Musk's AI Game Studio 18:39 Investments and M&A 24:33 Ubisoft Studio Shutdowns 30:07 Pokemon Trading Card Game Success 35:37 Habby's Big Launches: Capybara Go and Archero 2 40:44 Path of Exile 2 Early Access 43:18 Battle of the Eastern Shooters: Marvel Rivals vs. Delta Force 48:27 The Struggles of New MOBAs 56:51 Conclusion and Sign-Off --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    57 min
  7. 256. Running a Successful Live Service Game with Sergei Vasiuk

    DEC 4

    256. Running a Successful Live Service Game with Sergei Vasiuk

    In this episode, host Mishka Katkoff is joined by Sergei Vasiuk, LiveOps Director at Wargaming and author of 'Running a Successful Live Service Game.' The two delve into Sergei's book, discussing everything from the evolution of gaming models to data-driven development, player engagement, monetization strategies, and the challenges of global operations. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone in game development or LiveOps. Tune in for practical advice, learnings from Wargaming, and how to keep players engaged and your game profitable! 00:41 Importance of Live Operations 01:08 Overview of Sergei's Book 03:34 Sergei's Journey and Role at Wargaming 07:50 The Evolution of Gaming Models 12:03 Challenges and Strategies in Live Service Games 31:29 The Future of LiveOps and Community Engagement 38:23 Building Relationships with Content Creators 40:12 The Role of Data in Game Development 42:11 Understanding LiveOps and Player Engagement 45:34 The Importance of Decision Making in LiveOps 58:34 Balancing Monetization and Player Experience 01:11:16 Global Operations and Regional Relevance 01:18:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    1h 23m
  8. 255. From Casual to Complex: Trends that Shaped Gaming in 2024

    DEC 2

    255. From Casual to Complex: Trends that Shaped Gaming in 2024

    Dive deep into the world of game development and user acquisition with AppLovin’s Daniel TchernahovskyIn this episode, we explore the growth of mobile gaming, the significance of hybrid monetization, and the impact of automation and AI on user acquisition strategies. Learn how Applovin's journey from startup to powerhouse company evolved, the importance of maintaining company culture, and strategic insights on app and game monetization. 00:51 Daniel’s Journey with Applovin 08:21 Industry Trends and Insights 18:23 The Rise of Hybrid Monetization 31:46 Aligning Marketing and Product Teams 35:09 Understanding Benchmarks and Metrics 37:14 Integrating User Acquisition in Development 38:33 Team Dynamics and Agile Development 42:50 Predictive LTV and Visualization Techniques 47:35 Avoiding the Doom Loop 56:50 The Rise of Apps vs. Games --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

    1h 7m
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4.5
out of 5
89 Ratings

About

Deconstructor of Fun podcast is created by games professionals for games professionals. We explore the business side of the games industry with the goal of bringing listeners content that is relevant, insightful, and entertaining on a weekly basis. Hosts: Michail Katkoff @mkatkoff www.linkedin.com/in/michailkatkoff/ Eric Kress @ekress www.linkedin.com/in/erickress/ Laura Taranto @laurataranto www.linkedin.com/in/laurataranto/ Phillip Black @econosopher www.linkedin.com/in/phillip-black-economist/ Jen Donahoe @Jen_Donahoe www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferdonahoe Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Information

  • Creator
    Deconstructor of Fun
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2024
  • Episodes
    606
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Deconstructor of Fun
  • Show Website
    Deconstructor of Fun

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