In this episode, I’m speaking with two incredibly talented programmers, Nikita and Michal, who’ve worked on some of the most challenging aspects of game development, including networking, rendering, and creating multiplayer systems for AAA games like Six Days in Fallujah and Saints Row 3 Remastered.

Together, we uncover the intricate craft of game programming and its pivotal role in shaping the experiences we all enjoy as gamers.

They share insightful stories about overcoming "impossible" technical problems and what it truly means to succeed as a senior programmer in today’s fast-evolving gaming industry.

Finally, we explore the human side of game development—working remotely, building meaningful connections with teams across the globe, and maintaining passion for gaming in a demanding industry. Whether you’re a budding developer or a gaming enthusiast, this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insights and practical advice from two industry veterans.

00:00 Introduction
03:15 The Roles of Networking and Graphics in Game Development
09:30 Turning Creative Visions into Playable Realities
16:40 Tackling "Impossible" Problems in Game Programming
22:50 The Secrets to Great Multiplayer Games
29:10 Remote Work: Challenges and Opportunities in Game Development
35:45 VR Gaming: The Next Frontier?
41:20 How to Break Into Game Development—and Thrive
46:55 Predictions for the Future of Gaming Technology

In this episode, I’m speaking with Gabriele Aimone - COO and Co-Founder of TIFO, a gaming startup focused on enhancing fans engagement, as well as a strategic advisor at Systems Heavy. We dive into his journey through the gaming industry, starting from his early days at Supercell, where he witnessed the rapid growth of mobile games like Clash of Clans.

We also discuss his path from finance to gaming, the challenges he faced, and how he found his calling in team operations and company culture. He shares valuable insights into the process of raising funds, navigating today’s tough investment landscape, and the importance of finding the right investor-partner fit.

Finally, we explore future trends in gaming, like the potential for transmedia experiences. This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone in the industry, from founders to aspiring developers.

00:00 Introduction
02:53 Breaking into the Gaming Industry
06:44 Supercell and the Mobile Gaming Boom
09:50 Career Transitions and Burnout
14:20 Challenges of Raising Funds Today
20:10 The Value of Staying True to Your Vision
27:44 Future Trends: Transmedia in Gaming
31:00 Building Effective Teams for Startups
36:45 Balancing Innovation with Market Demand
41:00 Insights for Young Professionals Breaking In

In this episode I'm speaking to Dino Patti - Founder @ Coherence - a network engine, platform and a series of tools to help anyone create a multiplayer game and a Co-Founder of Playdead.

We talk about his journey in the gaming industry, the creation of Limbo. We also discuss Coherence, how the company powers the multiplayer gaming and the importance of creating experiences that last.

Lastly we touch on the topic of raising money in the industry, the role of publishers, and the keys to launching a successful game.

It was a great conversation, and I hope that you will all enjoy it, and take something away from it.

00:00 Introduction

04:17 Game Development

06:44 Starting Playdead and the Challenges Faced

09:27 Securing Funding and Hiring the First Employee

12:53 Pitching to Investors and Publishers

17:17 The Vision Behind Limbo and its Execution

19:49 Development Timeline

24:45 The Impact of Unity and the Changing Gaming Landscape

26:48 Raising Money for Game Development

40:46 The Keys to Success in the Gaming Industry

47:13 The Role of Publishers in Community Building

49:12 Emphasizing Uniqueness and Innovation in Game Design

52:24 Prioritizing Gameplay over Monetary Success