In this episode, we dive into the process of learning new tools as game developers, creatives, and collaborators. From the initial overwhelm to the breakthrough moments, our community shares real experiences, strategies, and mindset shifts that make picking up new tech less daunting—and even fun. Whether you're switching engines or picking up your first tool, this conversation might just be the push you need. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wedne...
Jun 25, 2025•1 hr 1 min
In this episode, Aysha U. Farah shares her approach to building unforgettable stories and gives us an inside look at her latest project, the narrative shooter Spine. Asyha is one of the sharpest minds in narrative design today, with a portfolio that spans Magic: The Gathering, Hiveswap, and the GDC Award-winning Life is Strange: Double Exposure. Learn more about Aysha Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to...
Jun 18, 2025•58 min
In this episode, we sit down with Layla Pigott (they/she)—film editor, game designer, and founder of Lookout Drive Games—to talk about the challenges and rewards of being trans and queer in the game industry. From navigating identity in professional spaces to building community through games like Portrait of a Texas Family and Bitter Silver, Layla shares hard-won insights and hopeful visions for the future of queer storytelling in games. Learn more about Layla Learn more about us Join the next e...
Jun 11, 2025•58 min
Join us for a conversation with Sydney, the unparalleled force behind some of the most compelling horror and sci-fi storytelling in games and film. An award-winning filmmaker, game dev, streamer, and horror ambassador, Sydney channels a uniquely digital soul into creations like QUALIA—a striking exploration of robots, identity, and what it means to be alive. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer yo...
Jun 04, 2025•52 min
In this episode, we chat with the team behind Sweet and Power Sauce (SAPS), a six-person studio born from the joy of game jams and a shared love of traditional art. We'll dive into their upcoming title Whiskers, Wizards, and Wands, a hand-drawn, marker-and-ink adventure where a reluctant feline wizard crafts spells to untangle a chaotic world: merging classic art with modern gameplay in a vibrant isometric space. Learn more abour Sweet and Power Sauce (SAPS) Learn more about us Join the next epi...
May 28, 2025•57 min
In this episode, we're joined by the founders of Ludorya Studios, a team of game designers who met during their Master’s in Game Science and Design and built a studio where playful chaos meets meaningful innovation. We explore their journey, their commitment to designing games by players, for players, and how they balance humor with thoughtful experimentation. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer ...
May 21, 2025•52 min
In this episode, we sit down with the trio behind Future Suit Games, Abram, Adam, and Kristi, to talk about their journey building an indie studio from the ground up. We dive into their upcoming debut title Daughter of the Rift, a narrative-rich card battler that fuses emotional storytelling with deep strategy. Learn more about Future Suit Games Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burnin...
May 14, 2025•53 min
In this episode, we sit down with Nicholas O’Brien, one of the most distinctive voices in narrative game design and critical play. As the founder of Essay Games, his groundbreaking work has earned recognition from The New York Times, The Guardian, and Kotaku, and has been showcased at top festivals like MAGFest, Narrascope, and Now Play This. Learn more about Nicholas Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to...
May 07, 2025•57 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Corina Diaz, a powerhouse digital media strategist with over 15 years of experience driving marketing and community strategy for entertainment brands. From launching standout indie games like A Fold Apart and The Big Con to shaping industry-wide initiatives like the Steam Women’s Day Sale, Corina is the go-to expert for turning limited resources into unforgettable campaigns. Learn more abour Corina Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch...
Apr 30, 2025•57 min
One of the best in the business, Michael has voiced, cast, and directed unforgettable performances in over 100 games—including Zenless Zone Zero—and he’s here to blow the lid off what voice acting can do for your game. Whether you're an indie underdog or a AAA juggernaut, this episode is your all-access pass to making voice work unforgettable. Learn more about Michael Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to...
Apr 23, 2025•54 min
In this episode, we chat with Ami Cai—a visual narrator, freelance illustrator, and graphic designer whose work spans from indie projects to the role of Art Director on the Kickstarter-backed Cartomancy Anthology. Ami shares insights into balancing creative careers with casual VTubing and gameplay content, and how storytelling threads through everything she does. Links shared during the live episode: https://dev.twitch.tv/code/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/1490340/We_Are_OFK/ https://bsky....
Apr 16, 2025•54 min
In this episode, we sit down with illustrator, concept artist, and professor Ryan E. Grady to talk about her journey through games, education, and independent storytelling. From working on Our Brilliant Ruin to creating her own visual novel Lythe The Forgetful Witch and comic series Daughters of Atlas, Ryan shares how she brings rich, personal worlds to life through art. Learn more about Ryan Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST ...
Apr 09, 2025•49 min
Join us as we break down key insights from GDC this year, covering self-publishing, securing a publisher, and navigating VC funding. Whether you're an indie dev or part of a studio, this episode offers practical takeaways to help you make smarter publishing decisions. Learn more abour Claire Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings....
Apr 02, 2025•59 min
In this episode, we talk with Kristi, a powerhouse in narrative design who transitioned from a successful copywriting career just two years ago. Since then, she’s shaped the stories of over six indie titles, led narrative efforts on AA-sized projects, and is now taking on her biggest challenge yet, co-founding Future Suit Games and earning a spot in IGA’s prestigious Foundy program. Kristi shares her expertise on storytelling, studio building, and taking bold leaps in the game industry. Learn mo...
Mar 26, 2025•55 min
The game industry is evolving, bringing both challenges and opportunities. This week, we’re discussing how developers can navigate a shifting landscape with insights from our Discord community. Join us for a community-focused conversation on adaptability, strategy, and moving forward in uncertain times. Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the reco...
Mar 19, 2025•58 min
In this episode, we sit down with industry veteran Frank Gilson, whose 25+ years in game development span multiple genres and platforms, including work on iconic titles like Diablo and World of Warcraft. Frank shares insights from his career, discusses the evolution of interactive media, and offers advice for developers navigating the ever-changing landscape of game development. Learn more about Frank Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at ...
Mar 12, 2025•51 min
In this episode, we dive into AI behavior in game development with an open discussion featuring our Discord community. We explore how AI can be used as a tool to enhance gameplay, storytelling, and player interaction, sharing insights from both developers and players.\ Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings....
Mar 05, 2025•52 min
This week, we’re joined by the legendary Susan O’Connor, Founder & CEO of The Narrative Department and the award-winning writer behind BioShock, Far Cry, Tomb Raider, and more. We dive into her journey, the craft of game storytelling, and how she’s helping the next generation of writers and narrative designers do their best work. Learn more about Susan Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your...
Feb 19, 2025•45 min
Join us for a conversation with GC as we dive into the business side of game development! With experience advising studios across the US, Europe, and Asia, GC shares insights on funding, scaling, and building a sustainable studio—without compromising creativity. Whether you're an indie dev or looking to grow, this episode is perfect for you! Learn more about GC Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer...
Feb 12, 2025•54 min
Want to unlock the secret to successful collaborations in the indie gaming world? Mike Gray dives into the art of building partnerships between creators, publishers, and designers; sharing real strategies, hard-earned lessons, and insider tips. Whether you're a content creator, game designer, or just curious about how great indie games come to life, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! Learn more about Mike Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch...
Feb 05, 2025•50 min
Tune in as we sit down with Cristian Jereghi, a master storyteller whose work spans film, TV, and some of the biggest games in the industry. With over a decade of experience as a producer, director, and cinematic designer—shaping Metro: Exodus and Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty—he brings a unique perspective on crafting powerful narratives. Listen in for a deep dive into his journey and creative process. Learn more about Cristian Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch...
Jan 29, 2025•54 min
In this episode, we explore the artistry behind the sounds and voices that bring games to life. Our guest, Matthew Kulewicz, a seasoned Dialogue Designer and Sound Mixer with credits on titles like Arcane: Season 2, Star Wars: Outlaws, and The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, shares insights into crafting unforgettable audio experiences. From monster vocal performances to teaching the next generation of sound designers at Chapman University, this conversation dives deep into the impact of great sou...
Jan 22, 2025•54 min
In this episode, we sit down with Daedra Christopher, a veteran game designer behind some of the most iconic FPS franchises like Call of Duty, Warzone, and Halo. Renowned for her worldbuilding expertise and passion for immersive gameplay, Daedra shares insights from her storied career, her dedication to mentoring aspiring developers, and a sneak peek into her upcoming book on breaking into the gaming industry. Learn more about Daedra Learn more about us Join the next episode of the Indie Game Lu...
Jan 15, 2025•1 hr
In this episode, we dive deep with Yuri Flagrare—a powerhouse in narrative design, software engineering, and storytelling mastery. With over 500 fiction stories, countless interactive narratives, and two books under his belt, Yuri has redefined what it means to perfect a craft. From applying competitive gaming ethics to building creative frameworks, he shares unparalleled insights into designing not only compelling game worlds but also an extraordinary career in the industry. Learn more about Yu...
Dec 25, 2024•56 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Mitch Cronin, a veteran of the gaming industry with over 19 years of experience spanning AAA and indie spaces. From pivotal roles at Volition and Humble Games to his current work as a senior technical producer at Santa Monica Studio, Mitch has seen it all. We dive into the nuanced world of indie publishing, exploring the pros and cons of seeking a publisher with someone who’s worked alongside developers worldwide. Mitch’s passion for games—whether it’s retro clas...
Dec 18, 2024•59 min
Join us as we explore the art of crafting compelling narratives and engaging quest designs with Quinn Elmer, a seasoned narrative designer and writer with over a decade of experience across indie and AAA games. Drawing from his work at Lost Boys Interactive and collaborations with Gearbox Entertainment, Quinn shares valuable insights and techniques to elevate storytelling in games. Whether you're a developer, storyteller, or simply love great narratives, this episode offers a treasure trove of i...
Dec 11, 2024•59 min
In this episode, we talk with Kyra Reive, CEO of Deviant Games, whose journey is as compelling as the games her studio creates. From serving in the military in Alaska to running family businesses, her path took a bold turn during the pandemic, leading to the launch of a game studio with limitless potential. We explore Kyra’s passion for storytelling, the lessons she’s learned, and the bold, creative approach that’s setting Deviant Games apart. It’s a story of resilience, creativity, and daring t...
Dec 04, 2024•55 min
In this episode, we’re joined by an extraordinary voice in games media—an experienced journalist, podcaster, and editor-in-chief of Fearzine Magazine. With over five years of covering the gaming industry, he’s interviewed everyone from indie devs to iconic talents like Nolan North. He shares his insights on fostering positivity in the indie game space while staying true to creative visions, even as industry expectations evolve. Get ready for a conversation packed with passion, expertise, and ins...
Nov 27, 2024•56 min
Explore the evolution of indie game marketing with David Elahee, veteran developer and co-founder of Headbang Club studio! With over 60 game credits spanning from the PS2 era to today, David brings a wealth of experience to the table. We’ll dive into how indie marketing has changed over the years, its current state, and where it might (or might not) be headed. Don’t miss this insightful discussion packed with wisdom from one of the industry's most seasoned voices! Learn more about David Learn mo...
Nov 20, 2024•57 min
This episode features Chance Glasco, a trailblazer in game development and co-founder of Infinity Ward, the studio behind the legendary Call of Duty franchise. Now based in Rio de Janeiro, Chance is innovating as CEO of Martial Arts Tycoon: Brazil, merging his expertise in game design with his passion for Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. We dive into his impressive journey, his impactful work with the Atlantic Council on climate resilience, and his unique insights into Brazil’s rapidly growing game industry...
Nov 13, 2024•51 min
