The crew is one down as Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe, and Mishka Katkoff hop in to knock one off on the road for #300. In this episode, Mishka gives his takeaways from Gamescom. We discuss a conspiracy theory on why Steam is allowed in China and talk about Wukong and Supercell's new CFO. Most importantly, this episode settles the case about Tim Hortons for good. BIG UP for our supporters! Heroic Labs, Sensor Tower, AppsFlyer and Xsolla --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Order your cup of Tim Hortons super hot for this first all-Canadian episode! The lost-and-found podcast host Adam Telfer delves into the state of the industry with Newzoo's Devan Brennan. Topics covered include market trends, forecasts for mobile gaming and the PC market, console performance, and the challenges faced by new free-to-play live service games. The two also explore the optimism surrounding indie and AA game development, and strategies for managing the costs of premium games. Segments 00:00 Ads01:26 Devlin Brennan from Newzoo02:25 Understanding Newzoo's Market Reports04:46 General Market Trends: Growth and Forecasts07:35 Mobile and PC Gaming: Key Drivers and Insights09:24 Console Gaming: Current Trends and Future Prospects21:41 The Rise of PC Gaming and Cross-Platform Play28:14 Mobile Gaming: Heavy Hitters and Market Challenges31:48 Ads33:31 The Rise of Blockbuster Single-Player Games36:58 Balancing Game Length and Development Costs47:54 The Future of Indie and AA Games53:12 Challenges in Free-to-Play Live Services58:53 Strategies for Live Service Success01:07:45 Final Thoughts and Industry Plea --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Fresh from another Tim Hortons ribbon cutting in Dubai, Adam Telfer returns to the cast. He’s packing heat, laying down hot takes on The Finals, Once Human, and the colossal capital required to ship single-player games. Meanwhile, Eric drops a margin call on Riot’s transmedia move while Jen rallies in defense. Phil thinks everyone is missing the real Wukong takeaway with a mysterious winner. The group discusses a somber Newzoo report and how single-player games can survive. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Get the latest dose of game industry news shaken, not stirred. In this episode, Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe, and Laura Taranto debate the merits of VR, discuss Zynga's match-three strategies, and evaluate market trends in the mobile gaming sector. Plus, the crew takes a look at the dreadful reception of the Borderlands movie and the ongoing challenges in launching successful game franchises. To cap the episode off, we take a deep dive into the reason behind Bungie's recent layoffs. 00:00 Intro 02:34 Economic Insights 03:17 Transmedia Failures 4:48 College Tours and Family Updates 06:41 Gaming Events and AWS Support 16:01 Market Reports and Industry Growth 30:32 Exploring Match-Three Puzzle Games 31:27 Harry Potter Hogwarts Mystery 32:42 Playtika's Strategic Shift 35:28 Bungie's Layoffs and Sony's Acquisition Strategy 42:54 Nexon's Earnings and Market Strategy 45:32 Take-Two Interactive's Performance and GTA VI 54:40 Zynga's Portfolio and Market Performance 64:11 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

In this episode, Dennis Fong, CEO and co-founder of GGWP, discusses his remarkable journey from being the world's first professional gamer to a successful serial entrepreneur. He shares insights from founding and selling four companies, emphasizing the importance of open conversations and the tough realities of making pivots and layoffs. Dennis also reflects on his motivations, and the challenges he's faced, and offers advice on culture building, securing funding, and overcoming doubts in the entrepreneurial world. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

In this episode, Jen Donahoe, Laura Taranto, Phillip Black, and Mishka Katkoff dive into the unexpected closure of Game Informer. The conversation then shifts to financial matters, with insights on the stock market and breakdowns of quarterly earnings reports. We examine the latest on the Microsoft & Activision deal, VC funding trends, and web-based game distribution. The podcast continues with a discussion on Bungie's recent layoffs and Jam City's strategic moves, followed by a spotlight on Supercell's hiring spree in Helsinki and the console launch of Valorant along with other new game announcements. Wrapping up, we explore the explosive growth of Roblox and share their final thoughts and recommendations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

We assembled an Avengers-style team of Consumer Insights leaders from publishers and Vendors Blizzard, Riot, Zynga, and Beta Hat to dig into how Consumer Insights can help Devs and Marketers make and market successful games. The team digs into how each company approaches CI, uncovers trends around older and younger gamers, and gives tips for teams looking for financing or greenlight. The session is filled with tips and stories, helpful to anyone in the games industry. Host & Guests: Jen Donahoe - Strategic Marketing Consultant Matt Penfield - VP of Consumer Insights at Zynga Mike Swiontkowski - Head of Global Research and Consumer Insights at Blizzard Bennett Robbins - Global Head of Publishing and Ecosystem Insights at Riot Stan Kwon - CEO at Beta Hat 02:03 Overview of Consumer Insights 06:16 Role of Consumer Insights in Companies 08:52 Qualitative vs Quantitative Research 21:12 Market Trends and Insights 30:58 Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite 31:25 False Signals and Market Opportunities 32:44 Understanding Player Preferences 35:51 Consumer Insights in Game Development 37:09 The Speed of Consumer Insights in GaaS 38:19 Multi-Platform Gaming 39:41 Multiplatform Player Experience 42:01 Devs and Marketers Collaboration 50:27 Tips for Early-Stage Developers and CI 01:00:46 Wrap-Up --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Jen and Phil close the book on licensing…or do they…while Eric closes the book on the 500 World of Warcraft gear score. Laura looks at Scopley’s new global forgotten franchise, and the team examines mounting Twitch losses. Eric makes 10 x new faces in the episode. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Subscribe to our weekly insights-filled newsletter: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe In this episode, we’re focusing on the impact of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and antitrust policies on game monetization. Our guest, Archie Stonehill, Chief Product Officer at Stash, is providing insights into how the DMA is changing the landscape for app stores and game developers. From sideloading to third-party app stores, we dive deep into the regulatory shifts and their implications for developers, publishers, and the entire mobile gaming ecosystem. Discover why this could be a positive turning point for the industry and how innovative businesses can navigate these changes. 00:00 Introductions 03:14 The Digital Markets Act (DMA) 04:55 Apple's Response to DMA 14:04 Global Antitrust Movements 25:21 App Monetization Outside the App Store 25:42 Deals and Engagement Outside the App Store 26:53 Sideloading and Third-Party App Stores 28:38 Anti-Steering Policies and Their Impact 32:59 Global Regulatory Landscape 36:10 Future of Game Monetization 38:32 Economic Implications for Developers 43:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

After dropping mice nuts somewhere on the Blizzard campus, Eric returns to remind Matthew Ball of his crypto advocacy. Jen raises the banner for games as toy brand extensions and enrolls in Joost’s class. Phil is ready to be The Second Descendant and reports on Rainbow Seige’s new marketplace. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Pete Hawley (former executive at 100 Thieves, EA, Zynga, Lionhead, Sony, Telltale, and Mythical Games) and Alexander Seropian (founder of Bungie, Industrial Toys, Wideload, and Look North Games) unpack their experiences with the Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN) platform, discussing marketing strategies, player engagement, technical limitations, and opportunities. 00:00 Introduction to Heroic Labs 01:01 Meet the Legends: Pete Hawley and Alex Seropian 01:43 Pete’s Journey and Insights 03:27 Exploring UEFN: Challenges and Opportunities 08:19 Alex's Perspective on UEFN 11:33 The Future of UEFN 23:11 ROI in UEFN Development 35:42 Challenges in Game Development 44:14 Monetization Strategies 49:53 Marketing and Launching 01:02:52 Lessons Learned 01:12:54 Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

The one newsletter to rule them all - not really, but it is good: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe The prodigal pair of Jen and Eric return from trotting around L.A. in the Jade Inferno mobile, while Laura laments the lack of Disco Ball. Phil stacks the chips on Zenless Zone Zero’s role in MiHoYo’s portfolio. Jen gives us the 411 on Disney IP’s 911 on mobile. Why do they all fail? And finally, we get real data on Valve salaries. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Join the industry's leading weekly newsletter: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe This episode is perfect for those interested in game development while managing significant brand collaborations. Join our host Mishka Katkoff as we delve into game development and IP licensing with Peter Hansen-Chambers, co-CEO of Hutch. Peter shares his journey to become a co-CEO and explores the unique strategies behind Hutch's successful racing games like F1 Clash and Top Drives. Discover the importance of strong relationships with car manufacturers, learn about the evolving strategies driving Hutch's success, and gain valuable insights into maintaining long-term partnerships with major brands. --- 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Hutch's Game Development 03:03 Peter Hansen's Journey at Hutch 04:21 Challenges and Successes in Game Launches 07:26 Licensing and Partnerships with Car Manufacturers 13:13 Navigating Approval Processes and Brand Relationships 19:21 Pitching to Major License Holders 30:40 Evaluating Brand Partnerships 31:52 Understanding Developer Expectations 33:03 Navigating Manufacturer Relationships 35:35 Balancing Enthusiasm and Practicality 43:43 Importance of Face-to-Face Interactions 46:13 Maintaining Long-Term Relationships 48:29 Common Mistakes in Licensing 57:54 Future Plans and Projects 60:31 Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Join us for a Whiskey Tasting at Gamescom: https://event.appsflyer.com/gamescomwwwtasting/DOF The Californians are out and it’s two-and-a half-Europeans running the show! Instead of talking about the ongoing European Football Championship or the election results in France and the UK, the trio will dive into Nintendo’s AI avoidance, hybridcasual puzzle games, and Squad Busters. We will also address what Netflix told us and debate 4-day work weeks… Hosts: Laura Taranto, Phillip Black, Mishka Katkoff --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Join host Mishka Katkoff on the Deconstructor of Fun podcast as he talks with Solsten founders Joe Schaeppi and Bastian Bergmann. They discuss the latest gaming industry trends, the importance of change management, and the critical role of audience resonance. Learn how AI enhances studio efficiency, the value of a measured approach, and how Solsten uses psychological data to improve user experiences, along with insights from unique data sets. 00:00 Introduction 01:08 Market Overview and Challenges 06:44 Attention and Engagement in Gaming 12:29 Marketing and Brand Positioning 32:05 The Role of IP in Gaming 39:39 Fail Fast Mythology 44:36 Web3 Gaming Revolution 46:19 Marketing and Game Development Synergy 49:41 The Lean Startup Method in Gaming 57:52 AI and Efficiency in Game Development 01:20:30 New Revenue Models in Gaming 01:23:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

So much news, and so little time! The crew discusses the acquisition of Singularity 6 and how it's one of the first superfunded star-studded studios that burned all the capital raised only to be acquired at a micenut valuation. We discuss Netflix Games' latest spin on how all is great despite the head of games leaving the organization and replacement still to be announced. And we cap the episode off with Amazon Games' strategy debate. your hosts: Jen Donahoe, Eric Kress, Phillip Black and Michail Katkoff --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Industry's leading newsletter: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe Join host Michail Katkoff on the Deconstructor of Fun podcast as he delves into the remarkable career journey of Kieran Donovan, founder of k-ID. Explore how Kieran transitioned from a screenwriter to a lawyer and then to a successful startup founder, raising $51 million in just 9 months. Discover what k-ID is all about, a pioneering platform aimed at creating safe online gaming experiences for youth, and their significant traction with major investors like Lightspeed Ventures and a16z. Learn about the complexities of gaming regulation, strategic decisions in venture capital, and the importance of robust youth online safety solutions. Don't miss this insightful conversation! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

With Miska discovering the true meaning of Tinto Verano, the crew convenes to celebrate Eric’s promotion to senior consultant. Meanwhile, Jen reminds us that Rocket League isn’t a real football game, and Eric finally finds a VC investment with scale. Phil stares down Fortnite numbers while Laura reminds us Switch is the train that keeps chugging. Plus, anime girl horse racing. 00:00 Intro 03:05 Shills 08:39 Apple's Legal Troubles with the EUDMA 12:52 FIFA and Rocket League Partnership 15:01 Investments and M&A 26:47 Executive Departures and Speculations 33:22 Tango Closure Mystery 34:21 Dungeon Fighter's Mobile Success 36:10 New Games 47:46 Nintendo Direct Highlights 57:32 Epic's Mobile Strategy and Fortnite's Future --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

Sensor Tower State of Gaming 2024 www.sensortower.com/state-of-gaming-2024 Data.ai Mobile App Market Forecast 2030 www.data.ai/en/go/mobile-app-market-forecast/ Don't miss out on this in-depth discussion — subscribe to the Deconstructor of Fun Podcast and newsletter for more expert insights. https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe In this episode, Lexi Sydow, Director of Corporate Marketing and Insights at Sensor Tower, unleashes her mobile gaming market insights. She covers significant trends in mobile gaming and marketing, app vs game dynamics, ad spending on TikTok and YouTube, regional differences, IP collaborations, and the future of subscription gaming. Gain valuable insights on market normalization post-COVID and ATT changes, and learn about the trajectory of apps surpassing gaming revenues. 00:00 Introduction 02:58 Mobile Gaming Market Trends 07:26 Regional Differences in Mobile Gaming 11:23 Impact of ATT and Post-COVID Market 21:38 Subscription Gaming: Netflix and Apple Arcade 25:48 Top Games and Publishers 28:56 Marketing Trends in Mobile Gaming 31:01 UGC Ads and Community Engagement 31:21 Monopoly Go's Strategic Community Targeting 34:53 The Power of Social Media Platforms in Gaming Ads 36:27 The Rise of IP and Brand Integration in Games 39:41 Transmedia Trends 44:11 Apps vs. Games 58:42 Marketing Predictions 01:04:50 Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support

They say a week without TWIG is like a beach without sand. Well, it seems like there's sand in Squad Busters' growth engine. The game had the most bombastic launch of any Supercell game and is now experiencing the fastest fall as well. The crew analyzes early numbers and potential reasons behind the rapid decline. We also talk about Netflix Games, which seems to have ended its honeymoon period and is now having a come-to-Jesus moment after big investments and not-so-big returns. your hosts: Mishka Katkoff, Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe and Phillip Black --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support