Today’s episode is hosted by Harvey Anderson and they are joined on the podcast by Lino Claudius, Game Design Lead at Paradox Interactive, Marta Fijak, Lead Game Designer at Techland, Sergi Subirats, Lead Game Designer at DECA Games and Eugen Nicolae Ionica, Lead Level Designer at Gunzilla Games.
The conversation explores how teams approach designing for the player by aligning creative vision, gameplay systems and user-centred thinking. It highlights the importance of understanding player expectations and motivations, showing how thoughtful decision-making can elevate engagement and long-term enjoyment. By grounding the discussion in broad principles, the guests reflect on the influence of design philosophy on development workflows.
Later, the exchange highlights how iteration, collaboration and level design practice contribute to clearer communication and more meaningful player experience. As the discussion develops, the theme of designing for the player appears again, demonstrating how balanced mechanics, intuitive interactions and well-considered structure support accessible and rewarding gameplay.
