Deconstructor of Fun

The BIG stories:

1. Finland’s game awards controversy (yes, it’s messier than you think)

2. Epic’s endless courtroom war with Apple

3. Supercell’s dual bet on transmedia and AI.

The team also breaks down the implications of ChatGPT infiltrating development workflows, the battle brewing in the Solitaire segment, and what Roblox’s new in-game shopping means for UGC economies. Add in Take-Two’s financials and some spicy predictions on AI’s workplace takeover—and you’ve got a packed episode that hits strategy, creativity, and the future of the industry in one fatality-worthy sequence.

02:29 Industry News Highlights
04:24 Meta Horizon Worlds and Game Development Insights
05:25 Podcast and Blog Updates
07:00 Dreams TV Campaign Analysis
09:32 Finn Game Awards Controversy
13:36 Epic Games vs. Apple: A Legal Battle
21:45 Supercell's Transmedia Ventures
29:03 Supercell's AI Initiatives
29:55 AI's Impact on the Workplace
30:34 ChatGPT in Game Development
32:00 The Future of AI in Gaming
41:23 Solitaire Market Shake-Up
45:15 Take-Two's Financial Overview
53:41 Roblox's New In-Game Shopping
01:00:57 Conclusion and Outro

We are joined by George Ng, co-founder and CTO of GGWP, to dive deep into the world of bots in gaming.

We explore the differences between game-created bots and player-created bots, the cat-and-mouse game of detecting and preventing bots, and regional differences in bot usage.

We also look ahead at the evolving landscape of bots in gaming and discuss strategies that studios can adopt to stay ahead.

01:09 The Impact of Bots on Player Experience

13:21 Regional Trends in Bot Usage

14:57 The Future of Bots in Gaming

20:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Why are seasoned PMs, growth leads, and designers ditching games for fintech, wellness, or even dating apps? What do these companies see in game industry vets—and what blind spots do they have?

In this episode, Mishka Katkoff talks with executive headhunter Gerard Miles about one of the most underreported shifts in tech: gaming talent is migrating to the app world.

03:14 Understanding Talent Migration and Skill Sets

12:20 Engagement and User Experience in Apps

18:17 The Future of Gaming and Consumer Apps

31:07 The Evolution of Game Marketing Strategies

37:04 Cultural Differences Between Game and App Industries

56:41 Career Transitioning: From Gaming to Broader App Ecosystem

01:03:47 The Future of Gaming Professionals in Diverse Sectors

The team reacts to this year’s World Video Game Hall of Fame inductees and unpacks Triple Dot’s surprising acquisition of AppLovin’s mobile games business—what does it signal for the midcore M&A market? With public gaming companies hitting all-time highs, we discuss whether this is a sustainable trend or a short-term sugar high. Supercell’s major

Squadbusters revamp gets the DoF treatment, and we debate Nintendo’s cautious forecasts in light of its market position. Rounding things out, we analyze Microsoft’s strategic shifts post-console wars and what the completed Activision deal actually changes for the ecosystem. Packed episode. Big takes. No filler.

02:43 Hobby Updates and Banter

05:06 Dream Games TV Campaign Analysis

06:40 Interview with Mike Quigley

07:29 Prize Picks and Predictive Markets

17:37 World Video Game Hall of Fame Inductees

20:38 Triple Dot Acquires AppLovin's Mobile Game Business

30:03 Publicly Traded Gaming Companies at All-Time Highs

36:03 Supercell & Squadbusters Revamp

50:48 Nintendo's Conservative Forecast

54:16 Microsoft's Strategic Shift and Console Market Impact

56:58 The Activision Deal and Its Implications

01:02:23 Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Mishka Katkoff interviews Aaron Thandi, Chief Commercial Officer at Mistplay, discussing the innovative approaches to loyalty-driven user acquisition and retention in the mobile gaming industry.

They explore how Mistplay has established itself as a leader in rewarded engagement, the importance of personalized user experiences, and the strategic methods behind their global expansion.

The conversation also delves into the role of AI in enhancing user engagement and the future opportunities for growth in emerging markets.

Get the AppsFlyer Creative Report: https://shorturl.at/Mjaiz00:00 Introduction to Misplay and Its Market Position04:11 Understanding Loyalty and Reward Systems08:02 User Acquisition and Retention Strategies10:52 Game Catalog and User Engagement14:26 Geographic Expansion and Market Localization17:32 Future Roadmap and Innovations20:15 Building Strong Developer Relationships23:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion33:14 Work with DoF!

Can someone really grow from 3D artist to GM of a billion-dollar title — without switching companies, logos, or careers? SciPlay’s Justin McFarlane did just that, and his story is a masterclass in product-first leadership and long-term growth.

03:48 Navigating Remote Work Challenges and Team Engagement

07:10 Making Tough Decisions: Prioritizing Team Cohesion

15:56 Transitioning Teams: Managing Relocation and Operations

19:05 The Importance of Listening in Leadership

27:57 From Artist to General Manager: Career Growth Insights

39:09 The Importance of Purpose in Work

45:22 Understanding LiveOps: The Key to Success

56:06 Balancing LiveOps and New Game Development

Get the AppsFlyer Creative Report: https://shorturl.at/Mjaiz
The crew jumps into a galaxy of transmedia takes with May the Fourth and how IPs stretch across games, shows, and beyond—sometimes elegantly, sometimes painfully. We dissect the long-awaited GTA 6 trailer and release window, then shift gears into Dream Games’ latest raise and what it says about Turkey’s still-thriving gaming ecosystem.

The team breaks down Super League’s acquisition of Super Social and digs into Roblox’s beast-mode growth metrics and smart (if aggressive) pricing strategies.

There’s love for Expedition 33, curiosity around Overwatch’s new stadium mode, and a sharp look at the Epic vs. Apple legal saga—culminating in a bold discussion on the future of app store economics and a tip of the hat to the ever-controversial Tim Sweeney.

02:13 May the Fourth and Transmedia

18:18 GTA 6 Trailer and Release Date

23:03 Dream Games Investment and Turkey's Gaming Ecosystem

32:35 Super League Acquires Super Social

34:13 Roblox's Impressive Growth Metrics

39:08 Roblox's Pricing Strategies

43:43 Expedition 33's Success Story

47:07 Overwatch's New Stadium Mode

50:43 Epic Games vs. Apple: The Legal Battle

55:57 The Future of App Store Economics

01:09:31 Thank You, Tim Sweeney

🚨 Deconstructor of Fun Exclusive — We’re releasing the UNCUT version of our legendary interview with Javier Ferreira, co-CEO of Scopely. This is the twice-as-long version only a handful of insiders have ever heard before.

In this rare, candid, and *fully unfiltered* conversation, Javier breaks down Scopely’s transformation from a $12M startup to a $3B+ revenue machine. Why *Monopoly GO!* succeeded where so many IP-based games fail. How Scopely builds “learning machines,” not just game teams, and the secrets to long-term conviction, even in the face of failure

If you want the real story behind the game industry’s biggest hit — and how Scopely is building the definitive free-to-play company — this is the one to watch.

01:11 The Role of a CEO in Company Success

07:06 Company Culture and Learning

19:54 Challenges and Successes with IP Partnerships

29:30 The Process of Game Development

38:37 The Role of Intervention in Product Strategy

40:45 The Responsibilities of a GM

49:47 The Impact of the Savvy Acquisition

01:04:31 Advice for Laid-Off Game Developers

01:10:08 Exciting Future Prospects in the Gaming Industry

We start where we ended last week: the $50M Royal Match campaign and the issue of overspending. Then it's all about Discord’s new CEO and how that signals a potential pivot toward enterprise, ending the platform’s gaming-first DNA.

Then, the crew covers NetEase’s sudden executive shakeup and the surprising Delta Force vs. Call of Duty Mobile battle before unpacking Blizzard’s Nexon partnership in Korea. We cap it off with an explanation on why VCs are suddenly frothing over AI in gaming.

02:39 MAU Event and Fireside Chat
04:15 Royal Match Campaign Follow-up
19:53 Discord's New CEO and Future
29:26 NetEase Executive Departures
33:19 AI in Gaming Venture Capital
37:12 Delta Force vs. Call of Duty Mobile
41:08 Blizzard's Publishing Strategy: Nexon Partnership
46:34 The Impact of Distribution Duopoly on Gaming
53:35 The Future of Game Distribution and Innovation
01:02:55 Web Shops and the Changing Revenue Landscape

Alexei Chemenda, CEO and co-founder of Poolday.ai, discusses how AI enables marketers to focus on strategy and storytelling. Discover the future of personalized video ads, the evolving role of A/B testing, and the importance of combining creative and analytical skills in marketing. 00:00 Introduction: Misconceptions About AI in Marketing01:53 Revolutionizing Ad Creation with AI02:53 Personalization and Creative Control04:15 Continuous Creative Cycle04:37 AI in Gaming and Brand Marketing09:22 Balancing Volume and Quality in AI-Driven Marketing16:37 Predictive Analytics and Data Fluency20:19 Future Skills for Marketing Leaders23:13 Enhancing Human Creativity with AI25:22 Conclusion and Contact Information

Mishka Katkoff sits down with Uri Marchand, CEO of Overwolf, to break down how user-generated content (UGC) is quietly reshaping the gaming industry. They dive into Overwolf’s mission to turn in-game creation into a viable profession, and why modding — once a hobby for the few — is now a legitimate career path for thousands.

This isn’t just about mods anymore — it’s about the future of gaming economies.

00:00Introduction to Overwolf and UGC0

4:05 The Evolution of Modding in Gaming

06:56 Industry Trends: Embracing UGC

10:05 Challenges and Opportunities in Modding

13:17 The Role of Platforms like Roblox and Fortnite

16:32 Balancing Creator Support and Developer Benefits

19:37 Sustainability of the Modding Economy

22:23 Revenue Share Models in the Creator Economy

25:34 The Impact of AI on Modding

29:14 The Power of AI in Game Development

30:15 Democratizing Game Creation

31:01 Challenges in Scaling Overwolf

33:51 Overcoming Investment Hurdles

37:41 The Future of Overwolf and Gaming

43:24 Innovations in User-Generated Content

45:39 Changing Mindsets on Premium Mods

48:17 Disruption in the Gaming Industry

52:09 Lessons Learned from Overwolf's Journey

 The crew unpacks a week of spicy news and strategic contradictions, starting with Supercell’s latest investments and how VC incentives often clash with long-term game building. We weigh in on GamesBeat’s move to independence, the ongoing esports funding debate, and whether Netflix’s Rebel Moon game is a flex or a fumble.

Valorant Mobile’s China launch signals Riot’s next big move, while Tencent continues to dominate with titles like Gunfight King.

The team dives into Disney’s Solitaire push, Habby's intriguing new soft launch, and the return of Royal Kingdom’s celebrity-fueled ad campaign—capped off by a heated debate: do TV ads still move the needle for mobile games, or are we watching legacy marketing die in real time?

01:56 Industry News Highlights

02:47 Supercell Investments Analysis

05:35 VC Contradictions and Incentives

17:43 GamesBeat Independence

20:17 Esports Investment

22:31 Oblivion

24:15 Netflix's Rebel Moon Game

31:00 Valorant Mobile Launch in China

32:36 Gunfight King and Tencent's Gaming Dominance

33:19 Disney Solitaire

40:00 Habby's New Game in Soft Launch

46:33 Royal Kingdom's Celebrity Ad Campaign

48:44 Debating the Effectiveness of TV Ads for Mobile Games

01:06:53 Concluding Thoughts on Marketing Strategies

Lightspeed’s Moritz Baier-Lentz joins us for a no-holds-barred conversation on venture capital, gaming, and the inner workings of multi-billion-dollar venture funds. No fluff—just real talk about fund math, spotting exceptional founders, the future of AI in gaming, and why most investments won’t work out (and why that’s okay).

00:00 from pro-gamer in Diablo II to Goldman Sachs to Lightspeed VC

10:00 The Lightspeed model

18:00 How Moritz spots truly exceptional founders (hint: not a checklist)

24:00 Fund math 101

30:00 Studio investing vs. tech investing in games

36:00 How consolidation is reshaping gaming M&A (and why it’s a big deal)

43:00 Speedrun, a16z’s gaming accelerator: innovation or red flag?

51:00 Debunking big VC myths

58:00 The future of gaming: AI, generative content, and creating the next Roblox

1:05:00 How Lightspeed wins competitive deals—and what founders should ask VCs

1:12:00 Is raising VC money harder now? Yes. But here’s why it’s still a golden era.

1:20:00 Final thoughts: investing at the edge of what’s possible

Kress is fresh back from Turkiye, sharing on-the-ground insights before diving headfirst into the week’s big beats.

We break down Epic Games Store’s revenue, debate the Minecraft movie’s potential for franchise dominance, and unpack the latest M&A and investment trends shaping gaming’s future. Inflation’s creeping impact on game pricing gets a hard look, while the crew wrestles with the evolving MTX and revenue models.

Things heat up with Marvel Rivals throwing punches at Overwatch, a sharp take on Western vs. Eastern LiveOps strategies, and a no-holds-barred discussion about Bungie’s Marathon pivot into extraction shooters. To wrap, a quick (and slightly roasted) look at Kingdom’s celebrity-packed ad campaign.

00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions

03:09 Chris' Insights from Turkey

07:02 Epic Games Store Revenue Discussion

13:30 Minecraft Movie and Franchise Management

21:07 M&A and Investment Trends in Gaming

29:47 Game Pricing and Inflation

30:31 MTX and Revenue Models

32:59 Marvel Rivals vs. Overwatch

37:33 Western vs. Eastern LiveOps

44:24 Marathon: The Extraction Shooter

58:13 Kingdom's Celebrity Ad Campaign

In this episode of Deconstructor of Fun, Jen Donahoe is by Charles Hambro, CEO and Co-Founder of GEEIQ, and Matt Edelman, President and CEO of Super League, to dive deep into the evolving world of brand activations and UGC (user-generated content) in gaming.

We explore how brands navigate virtual worlds, the ROI of successful campaigns, and why gaming audiences are more valuable than ever. The conversation spans the rise of playable ads, IAB standards, and the growing distinction between branded content and traditional ads.

Charles and Matt also share their insights on the future of campaign-based activations and why entertainment brands are doubling down on gaming. 

00:00 Introduction to Brand and UGC Activations

04:57 UGC and Virtual Worlds

07:44 Brand Activations

15:47 ROI and Success Stories

21:02 Challenges and Future of UGC Platforms

27:12 The Power of Gaming Audiences

27:45 Mobile Advertising

29:00 Playable Ads

29:42 IAB and Playable Ad Standards

31:34 Engaging Audiences with Playable Ads

35:49 Branded Content vs. Traditional Ads

36:41 The Future of Branded Content in Gaming

42:40 The Importance of Campaign-Based Activations

44:47 Entertainment Brands in Gaming

46:59 Concluding Thoughts and Future Trends

In this week’s episode of This Week in Games, we’re joined by special guest Chris Sides for a jam-packed conversation covering everything from transmedia storytelling to the latest moves in the gaming industry.

We dive into the surprising momentum behind the Minecraft movie, explore Gen Z trends and market predictions, and unpack Netflix’s bold push into interactive fiction. Plus, we break down A16Z’s new Speed Run initiative, take a close look at Supercell’s evolving investment strategy, and compare War Robots to the newly launched Steel Hunters.

00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions

01:58 Special Guest Chris and His Background

02:49 Transmedia and Pop Culture Discussion

03:48 Industry Updates and News

07:03 Podcast Highlights and Recent Episodes

09:21 Minecraft Movie Success

16:54 Gen Z and Market Predictions

20:48 Netflix's Interactive Fiction Strategy

28:44 Speed Run Initiative by A16Z

30:22 Supercell's Investment Strategy

31:19 Supercell's Investment Philosophy

32:54 Supercell's Investment History and Performance

43:14 Blueprints: The Best Rated Game of 2025

49:21 RE's Latest Deck Recap

53:36 Steel Hunters: Early Access and Unreal Engine

01:03:02 War Robots vs. Steel Hunters01:05:02 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode, Deconstructor of Fun’s Michail Katkoff sits down with Tobias Knoke — long-time Googler, gaming industry expert, and Gen Z whisperer — to unpack what game developers need to know right now about the fastest-growing and most misunderstood audience in gaming.

👉 Learn why Gen Z is about to become the biggest spending group on mobile

👉 Why they’re less loyal to individual games, and how to win them back

👉 How to build creator strategies that actually work

👉 What Gen Z hates about ads — and what they love

👉 How AI is quietly reshaping game development (and why Gen Z doesn’t care)

🧠 Read more at:

www.deconstructoroffun.com

00:00 The State of Gaming Post-Pandemic

03:51 Understanding Gen Z's Gaming Behavior

06:53 Strategies for Engaging Gen Z

10:05 The Role of Creators in Gaming Marketing

12:52 Building Effective Creator Strategies

15:43 The Impact of Social Connections on Gaming

18:43 Achieving Escape Velocity in Game Launches

33:38 Navigating Competition in Mobile Gaming

36:52 Understanding Gen Z's Unique Gaming Preferences

41:23 Ad Monetization Strategies for Gen Z

46:53 High Expectations and LiveOps for Gen Z

49:37 The Role of AI in Game Development

Gen Z, gaming strategies, mobile gaming, creator marketing, ad monetization, LiveOps, AI in gaming, audience engagement, gaming behavior, influencer strategies

GDC’s over, but the takes are still hot. Eric Kress recaps the chaos and questions Dark Legion’s staying power, while Phil gives the Game Craft boys a well-deserved nod.

Then it’s Switch 2 speculation time: is Nintendo finally back in the power game? Meanwhile, Roblox cozies up to Google for rewarded ads—what does that mean for the ecosystem?

Meanwhile, AppLovin fights off short seller heat while asserting market dominance. Plus, Tencent’s playing the long game with Ubisoft, again—no surprise, but lots to unpack.

02:12 GDC Highlights and Dark Legion Update
03:18 Game Craft Podcast
05:27 CEO Interviews and App Charge Partnership
07:31 GDC Attendance and Dark Legion Performance
15:58 Switch 2 Announcement
23:26 Roblox Rewarded Ads and Google Partnership
31:54 AppLovin's Short Seller Allegations
36:17 Hedge Fund Hotels and Market Dynamics
36:36 AppLovin Market Dominance
38:49 Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Acquisition
43:57 Supercell's New Game: First Impressions
53:22 Ubisoft's $1.25 Billion Tencent Deal
01:05:36 Tencent's Long Game and Market Strategy 

What makes the company a great place to work? We discuss the significance of company culture, leadership evolution, and the vital role of customer obsession with AppsFlyer's CEO and co-founder, Oren Kaniel.

Oren shares his entrepreneurial journey, how the company overcame early financial challenges, and the importance of remaining innovative and passionate. Additionally, we explore AI's role in the future of business, balancing data privacy with technological advancements, and the grand vision for AppsFlyer's continued growth and impact.

02:44 Building a Company Culture

06:33 The Importance of Customer Obsession

15:24 Challenges and Early Days of the Startup

20:15 Navigating Growth and Scaling Up

25:06 Hiring and Nurturing Talent

42:15 Transparency vs. Clarity in Leadership

44:02 Innovative Solutions for Business Growth

56:39 The Role of AI in Business Transformation

01:05:47 Building a Sustainable Business Ecosystem

01:15:20 Future Prospects and Innovations

Josh Wilson, CEO of SciPlay, returns to the podcast for the third time to discuss key topics such as the significance of Q5, the challenges of app store reliance, the stalled growth in the gaming market, the emergence of hybrid casualization, and the role of AI in gaming.

Subscribe to the Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe

Continue the conversation on our Slack channel: www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack00:00 Introduction and Previous Conversations

03:28 Understanding Q5 and Its Impact on Gaming

12:38 Navigating App Store Reliance and Customer Ownership

21:46 Stalled Growth in the Gaming Market

31:24 Customer Retention as a Business Strategy

37:44 Embracing Change and Innovation

40:55 The Shift to Hybrid Casual Gaming

55:15 The Role of AI in Gaming

01:09:02 Future Skills in a Changing Landscape

Eric speedruns through an a16z correction, while Phil can’t wrap his head around Funplus’ new 4x Dark Legion thesis. Adam tells us Netease’s Fragpunk is dead, and Jen tells us games journalism is alive. Against all odds, Netflix Games records its first positive segment. And did you hear that? It’s the inZOI train CHUGGin’.

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02:16 Post-GDC Debriefing
09:35 A16Z Speed Run
13:48 Game Journalism is Back!!
17:08 Nintendo Direct and Switch 2 Rumors
18:41 MOBA Shutdowns and VC Funded Games
25:15 FunPlus and Dark Legion
31:00 DC Comics in Gaming: Challenges and Failures
35:03 The Future of 4X Strategy Games
37:18 Marvel Rivals and Rag Punk Analysis
56:27 Netflix's Gaming Strategy

The rowdy and tired DoF crew closed down their GDC with a live TWIG show at Moscone Center. Tune in!

Chapters:

02:47 Kickoff
03:15 GDC Vibe Check
06:30 Industry Sentiment and Challenges
21:20 Emerging Markets and New Game Development
22:26 A16Z Speed Run and Industry Shifts
26:21 Funding Trends and Credit Lines
27:40 Absurd Ideas and Rumors
31:00 Supercell's MoCo Launch
33:53 Embracing Experimentation in Gaming
38:31 Absurd Compensation Packages in the US
43:28 The Future of AA and Indie Game Funding
46:57 Highlights from Recent Gaming Events
51:55 Impact of the Podcast on Careers
01:02:54 The Rise of Apps and AI in Mobile Gaming
01:05:05 VCs, Ad Tech, and Online Gambling
01:07:41 Closing Remarks and Thank Yous

Alexei Chemenda, CEO and co-founder of Poolday.ai, discusses how AI enables marketers to focus on strategy and storytelling. Discover the future of personalized video ads, the evolving role of A/B testing, and the importance of combining creative and analytical skills in marketing.

00:00 Introduction: Misconceptions About AI in Marketing

01:53 Revolutionizing Ad Creation with AI

02:53 Personalization and Creative Control

04:15 Continuous Creative Cycle

04:37 AI in Gaming and Brand Marketing

09:22 Balancing Volume and Quality in AI-Driven Marketing

16:37 Predictive Analytics and Data Fluency

20:19 Future Skills for Marketing Leaders

23:13 Enhancing Human Creativity with AI

25:22 Conclusion and Contact Information

Marion Balinoff and Sara Guerola share data-driven strategies for maximizing influencer marketing in gaming.

As CPIs rise and privacy regulations evolve, influencer marketing is becoming a key performance channel. Marion and Sara break down budget calculations, track organic uplift, and analyze campaign performance while highlighting tactics like QR codes, giveaways, and custom in-game assets to boost conversions.

Whether you’re testing with smaller creators or scaling with top-tier influencers, this episode provides a strategic framework for driving profitable results.

00:00 Introduction to Influencer and Podcast Marketing

02:56 Meet the Experts: Marion and Sarah

04:33 Defining Influencer and Podcast Marketing

08:16 Budgeting and Setting Objectives

14:24 Measuring Campaign Performance

23:58 Tracking Links and Performance Metrics

24:35 Challenges in Getting Clicks

25:08 Podcast Advertising Strategies

27:21 Creative Performance Reports

30:40 Influencer Integration in Games

32:56 Effective Campaign Strategies

34:45 Deep Integration Benefits

38:11 Creative and Contract Tips

42:57 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Mishka wrestles with the implications of AppLovin’s Triple Dot acquisition, while Scopely’s latest move has everyone questioning the future of Pokémon Go. Eric breaks down the latest insights from the Turkish gaming industry, while Jen dissects the Midia Research gamer segmentation report. Phil revisits the hypercasual ad playbook, while Subway Surfers just keeps running. Plus, a final look at GDC announcements, the mobile vs. console showdown, and what it all means for the industry.

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04:24 Turkish Gaming Industry Insights
06:20 GDC Event Announcements
09:16 Triple Dot and AppLovin Acquisition Analysis
22:58 Midia Research Gamer Segmentation Report
30:10 Social Elements in Gaming
30:35 Mobile vs Console
31:13 Farmville, Monopoly Go, and Female Gamers
33:41 Subway Surfers
34:23 The Hypercasual Ad Strategy
41:12 Scopely's Acquisition of Niantic Games
44:04 The Future of Pokemon Go
53:50 Scopely's Strategy

www.skillz.com/developeraccelerator/

We dive deep into the world of real-money skill-based gaming and the exciting new Developer Accelerator launched by Skills Inc.

Our special guest, Andrew Paradise, CEO and co-founder of Skillz, sheds light on the potential and market opportunity within this rapidly growing industry, discussing what types of games and studios Skillz is looking to support.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:19 Skill-Based Mobile Games Accelerator

04:09 Monetization and Market Strategy

13:32 Retention and Engagement Metrics

22:07 Skill-Based Gaming Market Insights

25:36 Understanding Sweepstakes and Skill-Based Gaming

26:17 Skill-Based Gaming Prizes and Competitions

28:06 Future of Skill Gaming

30:32 Expanding Game Genres and Market Reach

32:57 Skill-Based Gaming on Different Platforms

33:36 Addressing Bot Concerns in Skill Gaming

37:43 Insights from the Startup Journey

43:14 Challenges and Benefits of Going Public

45:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The world-class panel of Turkish founders and investors with Mehmet Ecevit (ex-CEO and co-founder of Gram Games), Batuhan Celebi (CEO and co-founder of Grand Games), and Görkem Turk (founder of Laton Ventures) shares their thoughts on what makes the Turkish gaming ecosystem unique, the importance of data-driven design, and how to maintain company culture while scaling.

THE HYBRIDCASUAL PLAYBOOK: https://metahybridcasualplaybook.splashthat.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Guests

00:30 Success Stories and Achievements

03:31 Challenges and Strategies in Game Development

09:14 Company Culture and Hiring Practices

17:47 Scaling Companies and Future Prospects

21:14 Insights on the Turkish Gaming Ecosystem

31:07 Balancing Creativity and Data-Driven Decisions

44:46 Balancing Internal and External Motivations

45:56 Early Days and Scaling Merge Dragons

47:25 The Impact of External Validation

49:29 Cultural Differences in Handling Failure

53:20 Challenges in the Turkish Gaming Industry

01:07:32 The Importance of Mentorship and Partnerships

01:24:22 Future of the Turkish Gaming Ecosystem

01:30:43 Conclusion and Community Engagement

Eric tries his best to make sense of the AppLovin deal, while Monster Hunter Wilds has never made more sense. Laura covers Supercell’s Lonely Island play, Boat Game, while Jen defends Disney IP as it STEPs it up in Japan. Phil wants a recount of Guitar Hero’s demise, while Activision announces another entry in the franchise.

The Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter:www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeContinue the conversation on our Slack channel:www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack

00:00 Introduction and Hosts
02:27 Today's Topics Overview
03:01 Jen's UCLA Story
04:00 GDC Announcements
05:46 AppLovin's Short Seller Drama
07:26 Steam's Record-Breaking Numbers
08:32 AppLovin's Game Division Sale
12:50 Sony's PlayStation VR 2 Price Drop
13:55 Supercell and SpaceApe Updates
17:15 Forte's Acquisition of Sealants
18:06 Miniclip Acquires Lessmore
18:38 Supercell's New Boat Game
23:05 Supercell's Market Mismatch
23:34 Roblox Comparison Debate
24:06 Monetization Challenges
25:01 Split Faction Reviews
25:43 Fable Delayed Again
26:44 Monster Hunter's Global Success
31:29 Disney Step in Japan
34:10 Scopely's Vanity Play
39:06 Guitar Hero Mobile Announcement
44:45 The Fall of Music Games
46:52 Conclusion and Farewell

 “The way we survive is built on being creative every day”

We sit down with Burak Vardal, CEO and co-founder of Rollic, to explore how the company skyrocketed in just a couple of years from a Turkish startup to one of the most successful mobile game publishers in the world.

Burak shares insights on:

• The early days of Rollic and its quick acquisition by Zynga for $168M
• How they consistently launch hit mobile games
• The shift from hyper-casual to hybrid-casual and how it changed their business model
• Why being a gamer-first company is key to their success
• What makes Turkey a global hub for mobile game development
• The future of Rollic under Take-Two Interactive

Download the FREE Hybrid Casual Playbook:

metahybridcasualplaybook.splashthat.com/

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00:00 Introduction and Background of Rollic

06:41 Türkiye as a Hub for Game Development

13:18 Business Model and Future Vision

25:54 Competition and Talent in the Turkish Gaming Industry

29:45 Creativity in Gaming: The Key to Success

31:54 The Importance of Ideation in Mobile Gaming

33:52 The Role of Testing in Game Development

36:32 Transitioning from Startup to Industry Leader

46:46 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers

52:47 Final Thoughts and Future Prospects

With Miska back jet-set life, Eric is HOT about the newest RNG platform, while Phil wants to revisit Niantic’s $9B valuation and go shopping in the Epic Game Store. Jen explodes a new angle on Vector, but Eric isn’t buying the geometry. The crew fights the first war on Last War’s Fake Ads: get real or get rich?

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01:19 Star Wars

03:36 Shilling and Advice

06:48 Niantic's Valuation and Exit

08:48 PrizePix and Gambling

11:44 Hasbro Digital's Success

16:04 Epic Game Store Analysis

23:03 GTA and UGC Potential

29:14 Steam Deck's Impact on the PC Market

30:17 Unity's Earnings & Vector

44:00 Warner Bros Studio Closures

45:50 Love and Deep Space: A Unique RPG

48:18 Last War Survival's Success

50:09 Fake Ads

57:33 Overwatch Loot Boxes Return??

58:45 Conclusion and Sign-Off

Marcos Muller, Director of Abu Dhabi talks about how the city is building a world-class gaming ecosystem from the ground up. From talent development to job creation and community engagement, Abu Dhabi Gaming is making big moves to attract studios, support developers, and put the region on the global gaming map.

Marcos shares insights on the incentives for game studios, and the growth of the gaming economy in the UAE, and even breaks down some misconceptions about life in Abu Dhabi. If you’re a game dev, investor, or just curious about emerging gaming hubs, this episode is a must-listen!

connect with Marcos: www.linkedin.com/in/mmhabig/

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro & Welcome Marcos Muller

02:15 – Why Abu Dhabi is Investing in Gaming

06:30 – Building a Sustainable Gaming Ecosystem

12:45 – The Role of Incubators, Accelerators & Studios

18:20 – Financial Incentives & Support for Game Companies

23:40 – Addressing the Talent Gap: Visas, Universities & Local Growth

30:10 – What Makes Abu Dhabi Attractive for Game Developers?

37:55 – Busting Myths About Living & Working in Abu Dhabi

45:20 – Abu Dhabi’s Long-Term Vision for Gaming

50:05 – Final Thoughts & Advice for Game Developers

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Scopely and Niantic are making moves, but can they actually change the game? NetEase unloads Marvel Rivals US studio—a political or an efficiency move? Plus, SMicrosoft’s console strategy looks shakier than ever, and we break down what the future of console gaming really looks like. And just when you thought it was over, King pulls another card from its sleeve. 🚀🎮

03:55 - GDC Shills

11:03 - Scopely & Niantic

20:10 - Jam City & Ludia AR Market

21:43 - Marvel Rivals & Netease

31:13 - Sony Earnings

32:06 - Microsoft's Console Struggles

38:00 - The Future of Console Gaming

50:54 - Return of King

🔗 Connect with Boris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boris-kalmykov-7ba38065/

We chat with Boris Kalnikov, CEO & Co-founder of Hype Masters, about relocating his gaming studio from London to Abu Dhabi. Boris shares his journey with World War Armies, the challenges of remote work, and why he chose Abu Dhabi as his new home.

We dive into Abu Dhabi’s rise as a gaming hub, its government incentives, and the realities of running a studio in the region—from tax benefits to hiring talent and lifestyle changes. Whether you’re a developer, founder, or just curious about gaming in the Middle East, this episode has key insights you won’t want to miss.

Timestamps:

⏳ [00:00] Why Boris left London for Abu Dhabi

🏗️ [06:00] Building a gaming studio in a new ecosystem

💰 [20:00] What incentives and funding opportunities are available?

⚖️ [27:00] Abu Dhabi vs. London: Cost of living, taxes & hiring

🎮 [40:00] The future of gaming in Abu Dhabi

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Supercell had a monster year with €2.8B in revenue, proving that bigger live ops teams and aggressive marketing can still drive growth—but let’s be real, Squad Busters flopped hard despite the hype. Meanwhile, Unity continues its slow-motion train wreck, losing key talent and scrambling to fix its ad tech, while AppLovin is absolutely crushing it, with stock up 700% thanks to AI-powered ads. Now, in a power move, AppLovin is dumping its entire games portfolio for $900M—so who’s buying? Scopely? Zynga? Playtika? Drop your bets in the comments. 🚀🎮

01:29 Shills
07:25 Dream and Venture Capital
10:27 Battlefield and Shooter Games
14:23 Minecraft Studio Leadership Changes
20:39 Supercell's Record Year
25:57 Live Ops and Monetization Changes
26:52 Squad Busters' Marketing Missteps
31:35 Spark Labs's Bootcamp Vibes
37:44 Unity's Struggles and Layoffs
41:45 AppLovin's Strategic Shift

Wilfrid Obeng’s journey from Goldman Sachs and Google to gaming startup CTO is anything but typical.

In this episode, he breaks down how AudioMob is redefining in-game ads with audio, why they chose Abu Dhabi over Silicon Valley to scale their engineering team, and what it takes to transition from corporate structure to startup chaos. We dig into leadership lessons, hiring strategies, and the future of ad monetization—all from someone who’s been in the trenches. If you’re scaling a startup or rethinking monetization, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧🔥

www.linkedin.com/in/wilfridobeng

00:00 Wilfrid Obeng and AudioMob

04:51 From Goldman Sachs to Startup CTO

07:24 The Importance of Mentorship

13:40 Creating a Performance Culture

24:52 Life in Abu Dhabi: Work and Play

28:47 Hiring and Leadership in a Diverse Team

35:03 The Reality of Startups

37:10 Competing for Talent in Startups

39:05 Leadership Evolution and Challenges

42:07 The Importance of Company Culture

56:44 Living and Working in Abu Dhabi

01:05:01 Future Plans and Personal Growth

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With Jen at a meditation retreat in California and Miska fully embracing his jet-set life, Eric reminds us just how wrong Matthew Ball got it.

Adam reveals the Multiversus thesis and argues that Battlefield has room to grab dormant fans and grow the market. Phil spews Battlefield tears and worries about Roblox’s value destruction.

They conclude by debating the AI integration in-games: flop or tbd?

This episode features insights from top industry professionals on player engagement, revenue models, and the challenges faced by new releases like Helldivers 2, First Descendant, and Once Human. Dive into in-depth discussions on successful PvE models, key strategies for game success, and the future of game monetization.

Join Adam Telfer and a panel of experts as they explore the latest trends in PvE shooters and the evolving tools needed for effective LiveOps.

Brought to you by Heroic Labs, AppsFlyer, Sensor Tower, and Xsolla.

02:31 Market Overview of PVE Shooters
03:25 Recent Releases and Trends
04:07 Revenue and Engagement
07:54 PVE Live Service Challenges
08:42 Helldivers 2: Success and Future
13:54 The Competitive Landscape
27:04 First Descendant and Once Human
27:38 First Descendant's Elder Loop
29:27 PvE Shooter Systems
30:42 Helldivers 2: On The Way Out
36:34 Warframe's Sustained Success
40:13 Strategies for PvE Shooter Success
45:52 The Future of PvE Shooters

We start off with Kress coming after Matthew Ball and his take on the Metaverse and end the episode with Jen making the last stance for brand marketers.

In between the team breaks down the FTC’s latest settlement on loot boxes and what it means for the industry. Deep dive into Ubisoft's sea of worries and discuss Habby’s latest launch hurdles.

00:00 Intros
01:40 Shills
02:50 GDC Announcements and Sponsors
06:35 Corrections and Apologies
08:09 Matthew Ball and the Metaverse Debate
19:20 Loot Boxes and FTC Settlement
23:54 Sony, Marvel Snap, and Warner Brothers
28:58 Tech Company Operations
29:09 Star Wars Outlaws Sales Analysis
29:58 Ubisoft Helsinki and Gwen's Getaway
31:05 Rainbow Six Mobile's Struggles
32:34 Virtuous Acquisitions and Outsourcing
36:23 Habby's Game Launch Challenges
41:04 EA's Top Selling Games and Earnings
46:18 Marketing Strategies and Impact
57:15 Conclusion and Sign-Off

Xsolla State of Play report:

https://xsolla.com/newsroom/xsolla-autumn-2024-report

Mobile gaming is bigger than ever, with the industry set to hit $98.7 billion in 2024. But where is that growth coming from? In this episode, we sit down with Xsolla’s Chris Hewish to break down the key trends shaping the global market—from Asia’s dominance to the rise of emerging regions like Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

We also dig into how player demographics are shifting and what it means for game makers. With diversity becoming a bigger focus, studios are rethinking how they engage and design for an increasingly varied audience.

Chris unpacks the impact of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), explaining how developers are navigating new monetization opportunities beyond traditional app stores. We also tackle the surge of direct-to-consumer web shops, how gaming is merging with mainstream entertainment (yes, we’re looking at you, Secret Level), and what all of this means for the future of the industry.

If you want to stay ahead of where mobile gaming is headed, this episode is a must-listen.

How do Playtika and Wooga nail their Live Ops strategies? What does GameRefinery say you’re missing?

In this episode, Nadav Moshes (Product & Market Insights Lead at Playtika), Maxime Graux (Head of Product Management at Wooga), and Erno Kiiski (Chief Game Analyst at GameRefinery) sit down with our very own Jen Donahoe to dissect the art and science of Live Ops.

From mobile to PC/console gaming, we break down the latest trends driving social, engagement, and monetization events. Discover how understanding player motivations is the key to creating better events and why a holistic event framework is critical to your Live Ops success.

We dive into practical strategies around segmentation, iteration, and gamified offers to level up engagement and boost your monetization. Whether you’re building your Live Ops muscle or refining your existing strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights for every game developer.

01:05 Meet the Experts: Nadav, Max, and Erno

07:36 Social LiveOps: Trends and Examples

12:31 Monopoly Go's Collaborative and Competitive Events

15:02 June's Journey: Social Features and Player Motivations

25:11 Engagement LiveOps: Long-Term and Short-Term Events

33:07 The Importance of Long-Term Engagement

36:40 Short-Term Collection Mechanics

38:15 Multi-Stage Mission Events

43:19 Advanced Segmentation in LiveOps

49:54 Challenges in Testing and Iteration

51:19 Monetization Strategies and Bundle Offers

01:01:50 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

TikTok’s gaming experiment closures and Marvel Snap’s China operations highlight the challenges of scaling global hits. Netflix’s games strategy is dissected, alongside surprising trends like the resurgence of Solitaire, which seems to be tapping into the nostalgia economy.

The discussion turns heavier as the team unpacks sweeping workforce cuts at Huuuge Games and the growing dominance of Chinese game developers on the global stage. Bonfire Studios’ new game announcement and Matthew Ball’s analysis of gaming’s shifting market dynamics provide fresh perspectives on innovation and competition.

01:13 TV Show Marketing
02:49 Marketing Strategy Debate
06:14 Shills
10:19 Nintendo Switch 2 Leaks
12:56 TikTok and Marvel Snap Shutdowns
16:36 Industry Moves and New Roles
19:44 Netflix Games Strategy
21:36 Solitaire Making a Comeback??
31:31 Bonfire Studios’ New Game
34:36 Huge Games Workforce Cuts
35:28 Matthew Ball’s Market Analysis
47:12 The Rise of Chinese Game Developers
49:57 The Cost of Game Development
58:02 Future Growth Levers in Gaming

Jen Donahoe sits down with Alexandra Takei, a rising star who’s making waves in the gaming industry.

They dive into what it takes to bridge the gap between business and creativity in gaming, the hard-earned lessons from startups, and how proactive collaboration can drive innovation.

Alexandra discusses empathy and mentorship's critical role in her career and shares advice for those navigating the fast-paced gaming ecosystem.

01:04 About Alex Takei
03:43 Early Career and Entry into Gaming
10:30 Blizzard Experience and Mentorship
23:51 PJourney to Content Creation
29:11 Venture Capital and Bitcraft
34:51 Understanding Game Complexity and Business Models
35:32 The Importance of Team Inclusivity
36:27 Challenges of Pitching and Raising Money
37:14 Navigating Game Development Constraints
38:14 Startup Dynamics vs. Big Companies
39:20 Wearing Multiple Hats in a Startup
42:20 Empathy and Flexibility in Leadership
50:55 The Role of Mentorship
57:52 Final Advice for Aspiring Professionals
01:00:57 Alex's Sign-Off

gaming industry, podcasting, venture capital, Blizzard, mentorship, career journey, game development, business strategy, content creation, women in gaming, gaming, business, empathy, mentorship, startups, game development, career advice, leadership, women in gaming, entrepreneurship

Join us at PGC After Dark: ⁠https://lu.ma/m75avtgb⁠

This week’s TWIG episode starts with bold predictions for 2025 in mobile gaming, followed by Eric Kress’s half-hearted backtracking on hyper-casual games and the latest Nintendo Switch 2 leaks before deep diving into Marvel Rivals’ potential impact.

The team revisits the year’s most significant moments, explores standout moments, and wraps up with listener feedback and reflections.

00:00 Squad Intros
01:28 California Wildfires + How to Help
03:18 Shills
05:34 Predictions for 2025 in Mobile
09:44 Corrections and Hyper Casual Talk
14:06 Nintendo Switch 2 Leaks
16:05 Investments and Funding News
20:15 Marvel Rivals
34:10 Talk of the Year: Mass Layoffs
34:53 Embarrassing Predictions
35:58 Company Damage: Ubisoft's Downfall
37:04 Most Disappointing Game
40:36 Financial Success: Mice Nuts
42:32 Questionable Moves
47:46 Brilliant Moves
50:35 Crushing It: Brawl Stars
53:13 Layoff Lowlights
53:43 Limping Donkey Award
55:20 Listener Feedback and Wrap-Up

CEO and co-founder of PvX Partners (www.pvxpartners.com), Joe Wadakethalakal shares his unique journey from India to Indonesia and beyond. Key takeaways from our chat with Joe Wadakethalakal: **Resilience matters**: Entrepreneurship is brutal—Joe’s journey shows how surviving failures and tough times builds long-term success. **Market size over Network**: Starting in large, scalable markets (U.S., India, China) beats hustling in smaller ones. Lesson learned the hard way. **Smart fundraising wins**: Raising capital isn’t just about money—it’s about unlocking talent, momentum, and strategic growth. Just don’t overdo it! Chapters: 00:00 Intro 05:53 Banking and Private Equity Experience 12:28 Challenges and Lessons Learned 18:53 Joining MPL and Strategic Growth 49:20 The Importance of Capital in Startups 54:10 Leaving MPL and Starting PVX 01:00:48 PVX's Unique Approach to UA Financing 01:19:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

CAST YOUR VOTE!

https://forms.gle/BfBn6H123S2D1QdY9

Brace yourself for the most candid awards show in gaming! Join us as we dissect the highs and lows of 2024, dishing out Golden TWIGs for the year’s most memorable moments. From epic fails to surprising triumphs, we’re covering it all:

• Company Carnage: Who took the biggest hits?
• Gaming Letdowns: Which hyped title fell flat?
• Layoff Lowlights: The most brutal workforce cuts
• Oops, We Did It Again: Our most embarrassing predictions

Get ready for unvarnished opinions, heated debates, and a no-holds-barred look at the gaming industry’s rollercoaster year.

Don’t miss this annual tradition where you separate the gold from the garbage!

The Hybridcasual Playbook https://metahybridcasualplaybook.splashthat.com/

In this episode of the Deconstructor of Fun podcast, Mishka Katkoff interviews Vincent Fevrier, CMO of Tap Nation, discussing the evolution of hybrid casual games and the unique position of French publishers in the gaming industry.

They explore Tap Nation's growth from a startup to a mid-size publisher, the challenges of transitioning from hypercasual to hybrid casual, and the importance of user acquisition and marketing strategies.

The conversation also delves into acquisition strategies, building internal capabilities for live operations, and the future outlook for the gaming industry.

Chapters

00:00 The Rise of Hypercasual Gaming in France

02:52 Tap Nation's Evolution: From Hypercasual to Hybrid Casual

06:04 Navigating Challenges in a Post-COVID Gaming Landscape

08:54 Marketing Strategies: LTV vs. CAC in Hybrid Casual

12:04 Acquisition Strategies: Building a Portfolio of Games

14:56 Operational Changes: Adapting to Hybrid Casual Dynamics

17:51 Building Internal Capabilities for Game Development

21:00 The Future of Tap Nation: Diversifying Game Types

24:07 Competing in a Crowded Market: Finding Unique Assets

32:25 The Competitive Landscape of Game Publishing

35:11 Building Relationships in the Gaming Industry

39:11 Navigating Acquisitions and Partnerships

44:17 The Evolution of Tapnation and Its Strategies

50:43 Industry Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities

keywords

hypercasual, hybrid casual, gaming industry, Tap Nation, ad tech, game development, user acquisition, monetization strategies, French gaming market, game publishing, game publishing, acquisitions, industry trends, mobile gaming, Tapnation, partnerships, user acquisition, market growth, gaming industry, competitive landscape

Michail Katkoff and Gerard Miles dive into the nuances of executive headhunting, exploring the role of headhunters, pathways to the C-suite, and the significance of personal branding and mentorship in career growth. They share insights on how candidates can position themselves for leadership roles and embrace strategic thinking to thrive in a competitive hiring landscape.

The discussion also highlights common mistakes in the executive search process, the importance of empathy in interviews, and the value of building genuine relationships. They address the challenges and advantages of international relocation, as well as the growing role of AI in hiring, stressing the need for candidates to be prepared and deeply engaged throughout the process.

00:00 Introduction to Executive Headhunting

01:00 Understanding the Role of an Executive Headhunter

10:41 Navigating the C-Suite: Pathways to Leadership

20:36 Building Your Personal Brand for Executive Roles

27:32 The Importance of Mentorship in Career Growth

37:59 Common Mistakes in Executive Search

44:40 Empathy in the Interview Process

51:40 Building Relationships in Recruitment

57:38 Challenges and Benefits of International Relocation

01:10:48 The Rise of AI in Executive Hiring

keywords: executive headhunting, C-suite, leadership, personal brand, mentorship, career growth, talent acquisition, strategic thinking, networking, hiring process, executive search, interview preparation, candidate experience, recruitment process, international relocation, AI in hiring, empathy in interviews, building relationships, hiring mistakes, talent acquisition

No agenda? No problem! Ethan returns from UEFN dormancy to break some exciting news. Jen sells a BMW, while Eric tries to sell a Roblox correction. The Puzzle Queen herself ascends to browbeat Royale Kingdom into better KPIs, and Phil shares pictures of his cat in a banana. 

01:17 Holiday Reflections and Family Updates
03:03 Good News, Bad News
04:01 Parenting Challenges and Teenage Years
06:23 Podcast Banter and Personal Stories
08:29 Cat Updates and Car Stories
12:50 Seattle Winter and Personal Updates
14:22 Startup Exit and GameFam
15:09 Roblox and UEFN Discussion
29:03 The Evolution of Fortnite's Algorithm
29:17 Challenges with Limited Analytics
30:27 Licensed Content and Revenue Sharing
31:45 The Future of Survival Crafting Games
33:21 Comparing Royal Kingdom and Royal Match
35:13 Analyzing Game Revenue Trends
37:06 Predictions for 2025 Gaming Trends
39:22 Golden Twig Awards Recap
53:21 Handheld Gaming Innovations
55:25 Holiday Wishes and Final Thoughts