09 Jan 2023 001: Legend of The Dragoon + Avoiding Monotony 00:38:08 16 Jan 2023 002: Spiritfarer + Compelling Characters 00:32:28 23 Jan 2023 003: Fishing Addiction + Ignoring the "Real" Game 00:32:56 30 Jan 2023 004: In Other Waters + Limitations 00:28:34 06 Feb 2023 005: Cult of the Lamb + Blending Genres 00:33:32 13 Feb 2023 006: Yakuza + Satisfying Rewards 00:38:19 20 Feb 2023 007: Katamari Damacy + Trusting Yourself 00:34:14 27 Feb 2023 008: Nox + Distinctive Playstyles 00:41:22 06 Mar 2023 009: Getting Over It with Bennet Foddy + Enjoying Failure 00:41:11 13 Mar 2023 010: Warcraft III + Skill Development 00:38:51 20 Mar 2023 011: Eastshade + The Fun in Peace 00:32:21 20 Mar 2023 012: The Vale + Designing With Limitations 00:35:44 27 Mar 2023 013: Final Fantasy 7 + Believable Worldbuilding 00:32:58 03 Apr 2023 014: Black and White + Room for Interpretation 00:35:17 10 Apr 2023 015: Tales of Maj'Eyal + Iteration 00:33:37 17 Apr 2023 016: Dance Dance Revolution + Control Schemes 00:39:11 24 Apr 2023 017: Final Fantasy 8 + Tiny Details 00:41:00 01 May 2023 018: Breath of the Wild + Holistic Game Design 00:39:07 08 May 2023 019: Age of Wonders 4 + Optimizing Gameplay Loops 00:26:42 15 May 2023 020: Morrowind + Exploration 00:38:29 In this episode, we discuss open world game design, the idea of "tourist attraction exploration" vs "wilderness exploration," and also player customization.
Character Customization Inviting exploration "Old school" open world design Allowing players to "break" the game Develop:
What different ways are there to invite exploration? What elements of Morrowind's design apply to absolutely tiny indie games? (Tangent) Game design bugs Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 22 May 2023 021: Celeste + Empathy through gameplay 00:34:26 Game:
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 29 May 2023 022: Cook Serve Delicious 3 + Customizing Difficulty 00:40:34 I have uploaded a free demo of my game!!
Enjoyable Stress Cheerful Post-apocalyptic world building Customizable Difficulty Perfectionism Game:
Addictive gameplay loop Highly customizable difficulty Encouraging perfectionism Bizarre world building Skill development and Memorization A brief note about Cook Serve Forever Develop:
Why does the core mechanic work so well? What skills does a player have to learn to play my game? What are some atypical ways to add depth to the world?
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 05 Jun 2023 023: Sacrifice + Guiding Playstyles 00:33:40 In this episode, we discuss...
Blending Genres Easy to hate characters Encouraging specific playstyles Small twists on classic tropes Game:
Sacrifice's unique take on the real time strategy genre Unique, interesting, bizarre lore The power of emotionally engaging characters God I want to play this game again Using combat to collect resources
How does Sacrifice succeed at it's strange blend of genres? How can I encourage specific playstyles without railroading players? Are easy to hate characters valuable? What small twists have a huge impact on my enjoyment of this game? What small twists can I use in my own development? My own development:The power of community support What it's like posting my first demo Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 12 Jun 2023 024: Dragon Quest 11 + Optimism 00:31:56 In this episode, we discuss...
Unrelenting Optimism Making players care about the game world Well refined turn based combat Respecting the player's time
Well refined classic turn based combat Avoiding the grind Abilities that feel unique to each character Unrelenting Optimism and Cozy Vibes A beautiful art style Goofy but great voice acting Simple but rewarding crafting minigame Has both 3d and 2d mode
How can I get players to care about the game world? What can I learn about respecting the player's time from this game? When are cliches good/bad? What old ideas can be tapped into for a new title?
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 19 Jun 2023 025: Diablo II + Loot 00:43:27 AIn this episode, we discuss...
Level scaling Efficiency as a game-play mechanic Discovery based crafting Ethics in game design the feedback I got on my first ever game demo Game:
Loot & Grinding Speed as a core game-play mechanic Beating the system Discovery based crafting Rare items Unique builds & Synergy Permanent build decisions Develop:
How to balance player power Feeling of gaining power Allowing broken builds Permanence vs Flexibility (newer games) Sut Feedback:
Feedback themes and variety of feedback Art Style Major workflow changes Art level-up How great it feels to share the game Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 26 Jun 2023 026: Forager + Addictive Gameplay 00:44:29 In this episode, we discuss...
Pacing Addictive gameplay Color pallets Rewarding players Level Design Game:
Addictive gameplay Slot Machine feeling Every moment an MMO level-up Fast paced Highly saturated color pallet Total and complete absorption in the gameplay loop, but oddly high stress
How does this game hook me so hard? Would this game have the same impact with a less saturated color pallet? Is it possible to feel relaxed while playing this game? How much stimulation is too much, in my own projects? Questions for your own projects:
How stressful do you want your game to be? Where will your stress come from? (pacing, challenge, etc.) How do you reward your players? How often do you reward your players? What psychological effect does your color pallet have on the player? Is your game fun, addictive, neither, or both? And which do you want? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 03 Jul 2023 027: Magicka + Elemental Realism 00:28:29 In this episode, we discuss...
Simple but deep mechanics Playful game design Types of play Combinatorial explosions Satisfying realism Getting stuck Game:
"realistic" elemental skills Extremely simple yet innovative magic system Shows how much you can do by focusing on combinations Humor and lighthearted dialogue Feels genuinely playful, rather than emotional, serious, or high-stakes Develop:
What makes the elemental skills feel so much more satisfying than in other games? How does the game invite you to have fun? Does the tone of the game shift my mechanical expectations significantly? Sut:
Started digging in on music again cutting myself a ton of slack this week Questions for your own projects:
What version of play does your game initiate? Emotional, goofy, dramatic, etc? Do your game mechanics "make sense," and should they? Are your controls responsive and tight? Do they behave as expected? What simple elements of your game have to feel right? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 10 Jul 2023 028: Final Fantasy 9 + Fatal Flaws 00:34:23 In this episode, we discuss...
Fatal flaws Planning Character personalities FF9's item skill system Game:
The futility of planning Music makes the game A few fatal flaws Item skill system Character design/art style Exaggerated character personalities "Steinering" Develop:
Are exaggerated character personalities applicable to a smaller scale game? Is it necessary to set an overarching theme to my game's story? What would make learning skills from items more enjoyable? Questions for your own projects:
What tiny, frequently repeated elements of my game might need modified? What unexpected systems does my game have, and how can I test their impact on player experience? Are any characters in my game under or over utilized? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 17 Jul 2023 029: Dave the Diver + Commitment 00:41:41 In this episode, we discuss...
Commitment and Variety Control schemes Mini games Charming characters Communication Game:
In a word - charming Fishing, management, and an tiny bit of farming Commitment and variety Continues introducing mechanics and mini games throughout the game Incredible, short animated videos that add depth to characters Develop:
When trying to map controls efficiently, what would be going too far? How could you add charm to a project, without having to do a fully animated video? Is it fine to have a grab bag of ideas in your game? What sacrifices have to be made to avoid excessive scope creep? Do games have to make sense? Questions for your own projects:
What parts of this game do I love? What elements of the game would be better if I committed harder to them? Am I pushing too hard on any elements, in a way that makes the game design feel insecure? Are there elements of my project that I love, which actually only exist in my head? How will other people know? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 24 Jul 2023 030: Planescape Torment + Choices 00:48:14 In this episode, we discuss...
Completionism Choices Raising the stakes World building Analysis Paralysis Dynamic Difficulty Game:
Choose your own adventure novel Genuinely impactful choices No right choices Player choice and difficulty Immersive world building The illusion of infinite possibilities Develop:
How can you make the world feel worth exploring? How can you add stakes to smaller decisions? How can you make difficulty responsive to player choice? Do you want to do any of these things? Questions for your own projects:
Who is this game for? Will the people who only play for 1 hour enjoy this game? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 31 Jul 2023 031: Cookie Clicker + Hedonistic Adaptation 00:28:06 In this episode, we discuss...
Hedonistic Adaptation Dark humor Efficiency as gameplay Polish Weird game ideas Game:
Cookie scares me/Hedonistic adaptation Sense of humor Fully committing to a goofy idea Efficiency as gameplay Polish/Juice Creative game design Develop:
Any idea can be fun Explore a human experience Be shameless, your idea is cool. Questions for your own projects:
Does this game reflect my own personality in any way? What parts of the development process excite me the most? Is there something I want this game to be, that I'm avoiding out of fear of judgement? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 07 Aug 2023 032: A Short HIke + Comfort 00:22:59 Game:
Comfort Anxiety and Nature Forced Disconnection Empathy Exploration Develop:
How can we instill the urge to explore? Is tension a requirement of good game design? How do we make short experiences satisfying? Repeat:
Does your game instill a specific mood? Are there any clever ways you can reuse your game space? Do you want the player to explore? Step away from the phone/Disconnect Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 14 Aug 2023 033: One Finger Death Punch + Simple Game Mechanics 00:27:42 In this episode, we discuss...
Core game mechanics Exploiting one idea The purpose behind visuals and I rant intensely about the importance of execution over just having "good idea" Game:
Single mechanic gameplay Fully exploiting one idea Basic humor Minimum visuals Develop:
How much fun can one mechanic provide? What actually makes visuals matter? Repeat:
What are the core mechanics of your game? Where is the fun in your core mechanics? (can be vague but honest) Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 21 Aug 2023 034: DnD + How to Succeed at Game Development 00:33:14 If you cannot tell, I am currently obsessed with Dungeons and Dragons. I blame Baldur's Gate 3
Journey, not destination Everything changes. Improvise like a Dungeon Master Even if you fail your main quest, your character has grown massively, and you've had fun. Imagine being at the table and ONLY wanting to get to the final fight. Risk and Reward:
Take worthwhile risks, don't debate decisions forever Accept the rewards that are given. Create your luck - cool role playing leads to cool rewards and better odds.
It's never over until you want it to be over Start a new character/change classes if you don't like how this one plays Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 28 Aug 2023 035: Baldur's Gate 3 + Designing Decisions 00:29:49 In this episode, we discuss...
Designing Decisions Character motivation Scope of consequences Game:
Characters with powerful motivations Interpersonal stakes Exploration & multiple solutions Black and white vs grey Develop:
Establish character backstory/motivation Limit scope Limit consequences Repeat questions:
What part of your game is likely to blow up in scope? How can you lock the scope down without breaking the appeal? Are your characters being driven by their backstories? How strong are your core mechanics? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 04 Sep 2023 036: Change + The Gamification of Suffering 00:27:53 In this episode, we discuss...
Suffering in games Emotional spectrums in gaming Games with intentional messages Game:
Homeless survival simulator Ties to reality Games with intentional messages Develop:
Be genuine Making suffering into gameplay Devlog:
Suddenly feels finished (put in all SFX & multiple songs) Individual level bugs Time management + learning Art drawabox.com Repeat questions:
Does your game implicitly convey some message? What emotions does your game explore? What have you learned from this project so far? Tip: Small projects, but don't be afraid to take risks. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 11 Sep 2023 037: Starfield + Illusions 00:31:32 In this episode, we discuss...
Player Immersion UI Maintaining the illusion Quality of Life Develop:
UI is absolutely essential Position the player correctly to maintain illusions Sut:
Hit a brick wall with save/load system Figuring out JSON Need to study for a bit after completing this project. Repeat questions:
Is UI an essential part of your game? What QoL improvements could you make? What skills are you lacking that would make game development easier? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 18 Sep 2023 038: Stardew Valley + Calm Passion 00:36:17 In this episode, we discuss...
Growth as a developer Exploration and discovery Calm but fast paced gameplay Calm, passionate game development. Game:
Too much that I love Peaceful or stressful, you decide Connect with others Explore and discover new things Develop:
Stardew as an analogy for game development Developing a game without freaking out Consistent growth, gradual progress. Enjoy the process. Explore, grow, discover. My development:
Save/load system done Cute level select screen additions Oh god I have to set up a steam page and steam achievements. Also, trailers? Unity news (super brief) Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 25 Sep 2023 039: Why You Should Make a Platformer 00:35:46 In this episode, we discuss...
Rapid iteration Structuring a project to optimize learning Learning to focus on small details Feedback loops Game:
Why a platformer Quick level design iteration Tons of example projects to compare to "Is it fun" becomes obvious Forces creativity or polish Level/Data management & other challenges Small changes, huge impacts Develop:
Accept commercial failure Learn first, sell later. Make a game you're happy with What makes a good learning project? Small with minimal scope creep potential. relevant to your interests strong feedback loop, easy to iterate/playtest. Sut:
Sent out two pre-release copies Had fun adding a little prank in one Not expecting much critical feedback, but hoping for some. Mostly expecting a couple of bug catches, and any catastrophic feedback. Started work on the trailer, and paperwork for steam The terror of approaching release. Repeat:
What genre do you dislike, and why? Is there a version of that genre which you would enjoy? What genre do you love? What is a beginner project sized version of that genre? Switch up your routine. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 02 Oct 2023 040: Age of Mythology + The Impact of Setting 00:30:56 In this episode, we discuss...
The impact of your game's setting Your game's emotional intent The problem with cloning games Game:
Setting, defined Age of Mythology vs Age of Empires Effects on gameplay Effects on emotional impact
Could you make a different setting with identical gameplay? Sci-fi shoother vs fantasy shooter Stardew vs Graveyard Keeper The issue with cloning games Repeat:
What games inspired your game? What is different about your game, and is it affecting gameplay? Should it be affecting gameplay? Is your games setting/lore being acted out sufficiently? Take a week off of gaming, play with new tools. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 09 Oct 2023 041: Why Making Games is Scary 00:46:22 Game:
Sheer number of skills How can one person do all of this Who do I think I am Perfect vision. Massive commitment, massive expectations Creative vs specific instructions Develop:
Huge ambition, must fix everything vs teeny tiny steps faith in self vs forced confidence Patience, with occasional spells of absolutely losing my mind. Repeat questions:
Pay attention to how you respond to your own thoughts. I use a pocket notebook as of this week. Therapy is a relevant option, especially if feeling stuck Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 16 Oct 2023 042: Dredge + Discovery 00:23:37 23 Oct 2023 043: MediEvil + Spooky Skeletons 00:41:59 Game:
Medievil is an extremely "playstation era" game. Pseudo-platformer adventure genre Camera control issues The whole picture is better than the parts Spooky themes mixed with comedy Develop:
Blending genres Making the most of unconventional ideas Small issues can make all the difference Sut:
Game comes out on Friday (if all things go according to plan) Already brainstorming new game, career move or make another indie game? Repeat:
If your game has rough edges that you haven't noticed, where would they be hiding? What creative skill calls to you? What (feasible) game do you wish existed? Tip: Keep at it. Every scary new thing is way easier than you expect. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 30 Oct 2023 044: Splatterhouse 3 is Terrifying 00:32:55 Game:
Timers and Terror Genuine consequences Scary gameplay vs scary aesthetic Gore in games Story through gameplay The power of a soundtrack
Setting up consequences Story scale Doing more with less
Game is out and I'll talk about it next week. Designing next game, but scope is too big still Might just need a breather.
What moment to moment feedback does your game provide? If your game has a story, does the scale have the impact you want it to? Tip: Pause to check in with yourself. Don't just grind. (In life and in gaming) Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 06 Nov 2023 045: How it Feels to Release a Game 00:34:27 Game:
Expectations Unexpected emotions Finishing vs releasing Unrelatable feelings Develop:
Lessons learned How the process felt Energy management Scope management A million other tiny things Confidence in ability to figure it out Unwinding/starting the next thing What the heck is next? Repeat:
What are your expectations for your project? How do those expectations serve you? Will they motivate or demotivate you if you fail to reach them? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 13 Nov 2023 046: Super Hexagon + Player Defeat 00:24:01 20 Nov 2023 047: How Games Teach Us 00:32:38 Game:
Learning starts with noticing Vampire Survivors - Simple gradual education Soulslike games - Harsh attention based education League of Legends - Hidden difficulty, social constraints Develop:
"Comprehensible Input" in language learning How to learn development skills effectively How not to teach players When teaching players becomes too complex Soft observation and pixel art progress. Repeat:
Are there hidden mechanics in your game? If so, what is the purpose in hiding them? When do you want a game mechanic be totally invisible? Tip: Notice how you learn.
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 27 Nov 2023 048: Dungeon Siege + The Power of Nostalgia 00:29:39 Game:
Why do I love this game? Less upfront decisions Less complexity, more targeted growth Develop:
Greatest game ever nostalgia Nostalgia for specific game mechanics Letting nostalgia be A rant about learning and development cycles Repeat:
Is there any one skill you're particularly excited about right now? Are there any old games that might help you reconnect with your passion? Write things down and revisit them. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 04 Dec 2023 049: The Urge to Give Up 00:27:49 11 Dec 2023 050: Designing Turn-Based Combat 00:31:28 Game:
Yakuza Like a Dragon FF8 FF10 The turn based combat spectrum Sprinkling skill on top Develop:
My ideal turn based combat Why I dislike equipment Undertale Linear JRPG with no experience system Repeat:
What do you love about your favorite games? What do you ignore about your favorite games? What are your game design pet peeves? Tip: Escape the internet's opinion
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 18 Dec 2023 051: Choosing a Game Engine 00:30:11 25 Dec 2023 052: Number Goes Up (Gnorp Apologue) 00:37:05 01 Jan 2024 053: Indie Dreams 00:26:06 08 Jan 2024 054: Blending Story and Gameplay (Yakuza: Like a Dragon) 00:40:22 Game:
Brief comparison to The Legend of Dragoon Blending Narrative and Gameplay Job System Character Personalities Summons Adding flavor to classic mechanics Like a Dragon combat vs standard Yakuza combat Develop:
The purpose and weight of a story The purpose and weight of gameplay Is this immersion? My development: A major test drive of indie game dev Godot is amazing TileMap, Terrain, Animator Still have a lot to learn Repeat:
Does your gameplay have any connection to your narrative, or your characters? What is the most compelling part of your game? What would you like to be the most compelling part? Tip:
Comparison is not strictly necessary to learn from something. Do not compare yourself to others excessively. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 15 Jan 2024 055: Picking the Right Game Idea 00:34:16 Suddenly Bird by Fev Games: https://fevgames.itch.io/suddenly-bird
Super Chicken Jumper, Super Meat Boy, Binding of Isaac, Incredible Crisis, Parappa the Rapper There is no one right idea Making absolutely insane ideas Letting people look at you funny Confidence in yourself Chasing the Market Develop:
Limitations on chasing what interests you Are limitations just bumper rails? Games that you want to make Games that you can make Repeat:
Shoutout to Fev Games: Suddenly Bird What ideas, wild or mundane, keep sticking in your head? Do you have a "nah, I can't make that, no one will like it," idea? What do you have to lose by making something? (genuinely, what are the sacrifices) Take time to listen to yourself. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 22 Jan 2024 056: Scams and Games 00:39:42 Game:
Scams in loot based games Justifying scams in video games Items with real world prices Ethical lessons learned through gaming Develop:
Scams that target developers Post-launch scams Game Dev Courses that toe the line Cheating, shortcuts, and player behavior My development progress over the past three weeks Repeat:
What mechanics in your game will your player want to shortcut? How can you surprise your player? Notice when a shortcut is preventing you from learning a skill. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 29 Jan 2024 057: Patiently Pushing Limits (Subnautica) 00:36:36 Game:
Subnautica's air mechanic Exploring and discovering more and more cool stuff How easy it is to drown Develop:
Drowning in development and/or features Subnautica oxygen as a metaphor for effort over time Weightlifting and rest days Why this segment is called repeat Sacrificing the short term for the long term Ego lifting and ego game dev Repeat:
What are the signs that you're exhausted? What are the excuses you use when you're totally fine, but just don't wanna work? Review of own development Tip: Respect the importance of a true rest day. Notice your exhaustion levels. Challenge: Take a true rest day, or as close to one as you possibly can. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 05 Feb 2024 058: Planning Your Game (Stardew Valley) 00:43:25 Game:
Cleaning up Planting Seeds Maintaining Connecting and exploring Harvesting If you over-plant... Develop:
What stardew teaches us about development How much can you really plan Patience and Consistency Energy Management Community Process My own development
Struggling with rest vs burnout Negativity spirals Believe in yourself, not in your accomplishments or potential. Belief in self and arrogance Negativity spirals are easy to execute but hard to endure. Positive spirals are hard to execute but easy to endure. Repeat:
How can you make your development more sustainable? What cool stuff do you want to share with the world? Tip:
Just do your thing. Also listen to Vienna by Billy Joel and pay attention to the lyrics. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 12 Feb 2024 059: How to Panic (Incredible Crisis) 00:40:05 Game:
What makes Incredible Crisis special? Ska soundtrack Completely absurd story Brutal button mashing (creates physical response) High pressure, simple minigames Develop:
The utility of panic The utility of frustration How your players physically interact with your game Impact of emotional moments on gameplay My own development
Keystone Habits Working through struggle My on/off switch Community Development, Twitch "you are what you do" Thoughts about passion and "The Bear" Repeat:
What environments and habits help you? What environments and habits hurt you? What one change would have the greatest positive impact on your life? (Habitual or one-time) Tip: Learn a couple of basic breathing exercises. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 19 Feb 2024 060: How to Git Gud (League of Legends) 00:28:40 Game:
Deep and wide gameplay Practice does not make perfect Difficult learning environment What matters is hidden until you look for it Lot of misinformation Unwelcoming culture Develop:
Discovering what matters by observing others "High Ranked" game developers Avoiding misinformation/misleading paths Finding a welcoming culture (avoid the doom and gloom) Actual practice involves experimentation and observation Repeat:
Do you feel stuck with any of your skills? Where can you observe someone else's method? Is there a different angle of approach you can try? Tip: Track your progress. Are you putting effort in the right places? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 26 Feb 2024 061: The Difference Between Bad and Incredible (Front Mission 3) 00:41:28 Game:
Front Mission 3 vs Front Mission 1st remake, initial impressions. Design Fundamentals The UI and maps in Front Mission 3 The difficulty tuning in Front Mission 3 RNG Damage sponges in Front Mission 1st Develop:
Design Fundamentals Examples of bad vs good execution Things that age poorly Fine tuning the player experience Putting time into the bits that seem frivolous Long term, sustainable effort. Check-In:
I have some Youtube video ideas and Twitch ideas I have not been working on development. I've gotten obsessed with chess rankings I want to harness my competitive nature for game development (game jams?) Repeat:
What gameplay mechanics have you accepted as normal? Is there any room for improvement in those mechanics? Is there something about those mechanics which targets the incorrect audience for your particular game? Tip for myself: Give yourself some genuine silence to make room for planning/thinking. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 04 Mar 2024 062: The Most Relaxing Games 00:31:45 Games:
Truly relaxing games: Eastshade A Short Hike Mountain Dragon Quest 11 Walking simulators Most games I play are stressful: Cook Serve Delicious Almost any Real Time Strategy game Almost any MOBA Chess Shooters and such Many games that we think of as relaxing can be quite stressful: Stardew Valley Roller Coaster Tycoon Develop:
What makes a game truly relaxing? What amps up the stress levels in a game? Do stressful games contribute to burnout? Making progress on writing for my game Got back to the gym after being sick, which helps me massively Chess as a metaphor for setting myself up for success Repeat:
What small choices have an oversized impact on your day/week/month? Tip for myself: Prioritize relaxing relaxation over stressful relaxation. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 11 Mar 2024 063: Being Willing to Fail (Chess) 00:28:05 Games:
Chess as a psychological horror game Chess as a fast paced shooter How bad I am at chess Crushing failure Forcing you to recognize the inaccuracy of your own confidence. Develop:
Chess - learning a theory, applying it, appearing worse at the skill Learning about lighting, making uglier art. "The next big step forward" will often make you worse before it makes you better. Don't just study. Do. Don't just do. Learn. Do not binge failure. Check-In:
Specifics of what I did on stream Taking risks (twitch, youtube, etc.) A rant about advertising and sharing your projects Repeat:
Are there any projects you wish you had the guts to try out? What would actually happen if you failed at them? Would you improve? Tip for myself: Keep experimenting, keep learning. Play a little less chess. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 18 Mar 2024 064: Why Grinding Doesn't Feel Like Work 00:33:34 Game:
Different types of grinding Loot Grind Player Skill Grind Character Power Grind Video Game Grind vs Day Job Grind Develop:
The obvious stuff Flashing lights, audio rewards Story with clear conclusion Near-guaranteed success No need to plan Check-In: Building up momentum Twitch has been a fun way to start working on art more and bonding with community Repeat:
What is your most memorable video game accomplishment? What made it memorable? Tip: Keep building momentum, try not going so hard that you burn out though. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 25 Mar 2024 065: When to Ditch a Project 00:35:27 Eastshade Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCzhyUsDHPE
Backstory of my current project Full description of the project Getting stuck after the prototypes Develop:
Eastshade Studios video: "Marketing is not why most indie games fail" Why I'm considering scrapping this project Scope realizations Too much stuff to polish Check-In:
Godot Terrain system Ko-Fi and Twitch Repeat:
If you remain on your current trajectory, where will you be in one month? If you alter your trajectory in some minor way, where will you be in one month? Tip for myself: Set goals, externalize your mind when overwhelmed Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 01 Apr 2024 066: I Earned a World Record (Dustforce) 00:35:37 Game:
I got a world record 246 way tie Awesome community Flowy, skill based speedrunner Satisfying skill development, significant space for mastery Incredible soundtrack Beautiful animations and art Develop:
Navigating levels in game, alternative selections Blocking levels based on ability to reach them Leader-boards add a lot to the gameplay Check-In:
Great programming progress, learning a lot from twitch finding out my blind spots Repeat:
If you had blind spots, where would they be? What do you want to try this week? Tip: Slow the pace a little. Make steady, sustainable progress Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 08 Apr 2024 067: My Favorite Pokemon Game (Jade Cocoon) 00:26:24 Game:
Creature collector without the cuteness Creature Combinations A darker, otherworldly aesthetic Story is pretty good, but probably nostalgia Develop:
A little bit of choice adds a lot of potential Allow players to explore systems Check-In:
Still learning how much I have to learn. Looking into more formal education paths. Repeat:
What game do you almost love, but something is off? What would you change in those games? Is it feasible? Tip: Explore new tools. Learn some theory/explore traditional learning methods. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 15 Apr 2024 068: Conquering Creative Paralysis 00:37:13 Game:
No guarantees, just like creating Things that paralyze you Is there ever only one path ahead? Risk less, work patiently Develop:
What power do we actually have? Notice, notice, notice The invisible work Considering trying might be harder than trying Repeat:
What is the worst thing you can do for your creative energy? How can you get to know yourself better? Tip for myself: What version of the work, no matter how small, are you willing to do? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 22 Apr 2024 069: The Gameplay Loop of Game Development 00:29:33 29 Apr 2024 070: Upward Spirals and Game Development 00:35:31 06 May 2024 071: Propaganda and Helldivers 2 00:38:39 UPDATED CONTEXT: About half an hour after I finished editing this episode, Sony announced via twitter that they will not be moving forward with the update that initiated this controversy.
Incredible satirical propaganda Community controls the marketing Great lore, full commitment Accidentally creating a union Develop:
"Everything is game design" - Jonathan Rogers Interview (PoE2) Communication is key, poor communication can become an unintentional scam Be very aware of who has control over what Repeat:
How would you find space to think in the midst of a massive controversy? How do you find space to create, in the chaos of life? Acknowledge or ignore how little control you have, then make things anyway Jonathan Rogers Interview
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 13 May 2024 072: Why Play Games 00:33:52 20 May 2024 073: No Bad Ideas (Parappa the Rapper) 00:31:27 27 May 2024 074: On Touching Grass 00:24:51 03 Jun 2024 075: Pure Goofy Fun (Worms) 00:23:19 10 Jun 2024 076: Why Make Games 00:29:16 17 Jun 2024 077: How Games Help Us Grow 00:30:58 24 Jun 2024 078: The Joy of Consequences in Games 00:31:53 01 Jul 2024 079: How to Make a Good Game Bad 00:33:29 Game:
Big Picture: Poor communication, taking control from player Unskippable filler content/cutscenes Bad default controls Horrible marketing Constant waiting Removing interaction indicators Examples: Skyrim, Celeste, Breath of the Wild Develop:
Communicate clearly Have multiple people test it Don't make assumptions about player mindset Don't waste people's time Repeat:
How could you ruin your favorite game? How could you fix a game with one fatal flaw? Some weeks, you don't need a tip. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 08 Jul 2024 080: Mindless Satisfying Games (PowerWash Simulator) 00:28:08 15 Jul 2024 081: Getting Stuck 00:30:39 22 Jul 2024 082: In Defense of Being Bad 00:29:17 29 Jul 2024 083: Simplicity (Fishy) 00:19:03 05 Aug 2024 084: Why Are MMOs Fun? (WoW) 00:39:39 Game:
The social element Addictive grinds Monthly subscriptions World of Warcraft Guild Wars 2 Anarchy Online Everquest Develop:
Interconnected goals and skills The developer motivation issue Addictive vs Entertaining Repeat:
What is the most entertaining game you've ever played? What is the most addictive game you've ever played? Notice the differences in different forms of "fun" Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 12 Aug 2024 085: On Uncertainty 00:25:59 19 Aug 2024 086: Binge Gaming vs Patient Gaming 00:36:58 Game:
Games that invite a binge Games that invite patience Playing games differently from their design Binge games that never end Develop:
Binge-worthy design elements Patient design elements Story Recaps Repeat:
What gaming pace do you, on average, enjoy more? How compelling do you want your next game to be? Tip: Whichever pace you normally take, test out the opposite. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 26 Aug 2024 087: It's Time to Remake Final Fantasy 8 (FFVIII) 00:30:09 Game:
Final Fantasy 16 Demo The action RPG angle FF8 isn't as "sacred" as other FF titles Clear areas for improvement Other games entering Final Fantasy's old niche Develop:
Iteration Final Fantasy always tries something new Improve where you know you can Trying to beat a masterpiece Repeat:
What game would you like to see remade? Do you know any "diamond caked in manure" games? Tip: Keep exploring, keep experimenting Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 02 Sep 2024 088: From Idea to Design 00:28:48 09 Sep 2024 089: Ignorance in Gaming (The Joyful Newb) 00:37:13 Game:
Your first gaming experiences When a player carries you too hard Discovery and Learning Games that bring you the most joy The dream of a massive break from gaming Develop:
Not being overwhelemed by the totality of work Knowing your target audience Not knowing how hard things will get Being absorbed in your own perspective Be an idiot (with some limitations) Repeat:
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 16 Sep 2024 090: Noticing Good Game Design 00:23:41 Game:
Bad Design Incredible design Hidden good design The crazy, interconnected nature of game design Develop:
Getting overwhelmed by big inspirations Locking in on the small inspirations Gradually realizing how much you can actually create Repeat:
What game has incredible design, and what small element of it stands out to you? What game has some major flaws, and what design element would you pull inspiration from or redesign? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 23 Sep 2024 091: Addicted to Walkthroughs 00:42:09 Game:
JRPG Guides Step by step, line by line Official vs community guides Skipping parts of the guide Complex Mechanical Guides "Just trust me" Terminology overload Skill Based Guides Develop:
Every weakness, every strength The need for tutorials Ignoring and extracting information The importance of context A note about useless teachers/guides Repeat:
Best guide (or teacher) experiences? Worst guide (or teacher) experiences? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 30 Sep 2024 092: Satisfactory is Basically Game Development 00:27:24 Game:
Efficiency Chasing Interconnected web of goals Destroying the planet Single-mindedness Incredible aesthetic and voice-over Overwhelming but manageable Develop:
Development at its best Development at its worst Deeply Satisfying Tiny optimizations can waste time Repeat:
How can your development be more like Satisfactory? What "efficiency traps" do you fall into? Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/anxiousbuddhagames https://www.twitch.tv/anxiousbuddhagames https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638880/Sut/ https://discord.gg/GvYRtTQM9m
Send me any feedback, suggestions, or questions! I'd love for us to build a strong, supportive, creative community. 07 Oct 2024 093: Drowning, Timers, and Quest Logs 00:23:56 14 Oct 2024 094: Creative Exhaustion 00:25:16 21 Oct 2024 095: On Competitive Games 00:25:49 28 Oct 2024 096: The Goal Dilemma 00:28:30 04 Nov 2024 097: Default Hotkeys and You 00:31:55 11 Nov 2024 098: The Impression of Fun (Brighter Shores) 00:30:37 18 Nov 2024 099: Feedback and Early Access (Soulframe) 00:33:14 25 Nov 2024 100: Shortcuts Cheats and Struggles 00:35:20 