Jordan sits down with Tadhg Kelly, an experienced consultant specializing in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and video games, with a rich background in game design and production. Tadhg has held significant roles at notable companies like BSkyB, Lionhead Studios, Climax Studios, and Mobile Game Doctor. His work spans a variety of game projects, from board games and live-action role-playing games to large-scale PC games and innovative AR/VR technologies. In this episode, Tadhg shares his journey from game designer to consultant, offering invaluable insights into the industry's evolution and the lessons he has learned along the way.
[03:04] Tadhg’s journey from game designer to consultant
[06:15] Lessons learned from working on various game projects
[09:47] Examples of “cliff projects” and challenges in game development
[13:00] Consulting and transitioning from traditional game development
[17:19] The “Sexy / Worthy Trap” and how it influences successful games
[22:27] Simple mistakes in the early stages of game development
[24:06] Why assumptions about gameplay and player psychology can lead to failure
[26:57] The importance of being “sexy” rather than “worthy” in game development
[30:09] Writing game design documentation and focusing on the user experience
[36:30] Lessons from working on platforms like OUYA and Magic Leap
[44:43] Tadhg’s thoughts on consulting and what’s next in the game industry
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