Ludology

Ryan and Geoff take one last look at the Most Influential Games of the 20th Century. Do they have any second thoughts? Any overlooked games that should have been included? They also put on their pointy prognosticator caps and give their picks for the top 10 games that will be most influential on the 21st century. Duration: 

In this classic GameTek, Geoff talks about recent research on willpower. Duration: 07:00

Ryan and Geoff are pleased to welcome back Eric Zimmerman, professor at NYU's Game Center and author of The Rules of Play. This episode we discuss the concept of the "magic circle" and how designers can foster and benefit from it. Duration: 01:24:56

In this classic GameTek, Geoff talks about the state of game criticisim. Duration: 10:53

Ryan and Geoff conclude their survey of the most influential games with the 90's. Which games have cast shadows into the 21st century? Duration: 01:20

In this classic GameTek, Geoff discusses Kickstarter, and it's links with the concept of Patronage, in the past and future. Duration: 06:47

Ryan and Geoff are very pleased to be joined by guest Keith Burgun of DinoFarm games and author of Game Design Theory.  Keith is the designer of a variety of mobile games, including 100 Rogues, Empire, and the upcoming Auro, all of which have a true board game flavor to them. We discuss the relationship between board games and video games, and using board games design techniques to prototype and inform the video game design space. Duration: 01:37:27

In this classic GameTek, Geoff discusses the different types of intellectual property protection available to authors and companies. Duration: 06:48

Ryan and Geoff continue their series on the most influential games of all time, and take a look at the 1980's.  What were the key games when we all weren't trying to unscramble our Rubik's Cubes?

In this classic GameTek, Geoff discusses the impact 3D printing technology may have on the game hobby. Duration: 07:30

Ryan and Geoff are very excited to be joined by special guest Mike Gray. Mike has a long history in the game industry, working for Milton Bradley, TSR, and Hasbro.  He designed Fortress America, Shogun, The Omega Virus, and many other classics during his tenure.  Mike gives us a fascinating glimpse into the world of the largest game publisher, including the genesis of the Gamemaster series, acquisition of Avalon Hill, and development of modern classics like Queen's Gambit. Duration: 01:14:45

In this classic GameTek, Geoff discusses the importance of endings, and the difference between "the experiencing self" and "the remembering self." One of Geoff's favorites! Duration: 06:06

Ryan and Geoff continue their series on the most influential games of all time, and take a look at the 1970's.  What were the key moments in the decade of disco? Duration: 01:21:58

In this classic GameTek, Geoff talks about Power Creep. Is it a big conspiracy? Or is there a less nefarious explanation? Duration: 06:19

Ryan and Geoff are joined by JVMF-auction winner Chaz Marler, to discuss the use of icons in games. Why use icons? What games have useful icons, and others not so much?  And what is Geoff's suggestion for the Dice Tower musical episode? Duration: 01:17:28

In this classic GameTek, Geoff takes a look at playtesting. What are the different types of playtesting, and how do they fall short?

And we're back!! Ryan and Geoff kick off the new year with a new series: The Most Influential Games. Part 1 covers 1900 - 1969.  What are the most influential games from these years? Duration: 1:08:47

Geoff and Ryan are joined by Steve Kendall of the Ragnar Brothers and designer of History of the World, Viking Fury, and more, to discuss Area Control or 'Dudes on a Map' games. What are the outstanding examples? What are the key ingredients of this genre? What are the strengths and weaknesses? Duration: 01:17:12

NEW CONTENT! Geoff talks with Quintin Smith of Shut Up and Sit Down about his recent experience at The Betrayer's Banquet, a Prisoner's Dilemma-themed dinner party.  Does backstabbing improve the taste of chicken feet? Duration: 22:56

Ryan and Geoff are joined by Rob Daviau, of Iron Wall Games, and formerly with Hasbro. While at Hasbro Rob worked on a slew of games you know, including Heroscape, Betrayal at House on the Hill, and Axis and Allies. But we've invited him on to discuss his 'Legacy' series of games, starting with Risk: Legacy, and the upcoming Seafall.  How did he come up with the idea for Risk: Legacy? What were the design challenges and blind alleys he overcame? What is he trying to do differently with Seafall? Duration: 01:15:15