Up Up Down Down http://www.upup.fm/ no en © Steamclock Software The show about the ups and downs of the games industry. Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke video-games,games,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers App developers Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke host an interesting guest each week to discuss what's up and what's down in the games industry. Chaos ensues. The podcast about what's wrong and right in the games industry. App developers Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke host an interesting guest each week. Chaos ensues. Up Up Down Down hello@upup.fm http://www.upup.fm/feed/ 48. We Made a Game Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 48. We Made a Game - Up Up Down Down Malin Sundberg joins us to discuss Two Spies, the new iOS spy strategy we've made, along with its UI, Swift as a game development language, and the pros and cons of shipping a game as a side project. Malin Sundberg joins us to discuss Two Spies, the new turn-based iOS spy strategy we’ve made, along with its UI, Swift as a game development language, and the pros and cons of shipping a game as a side project.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/we-made-two-spies http://www.upup.fm/show/we-made-two-spies Thu, 23 Jan 2020 20:00:00 GMT 1:32:14 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 47. You Suck at Micro Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 47. You Suck at Micro - Up Up Down Down Soren Johnson joins us to discuss making strategy games. We discuss his new game Offworld Trading Company, touch on his work on the Civilization series, and the challenges of balance. Afterward, we express our early bewilderment at Overwatch. Soren Johnson joins us to discuss making strategy games. We discuss his new game Offworld Trading Company, touch on his work on the Civilization series, and the challenges of balance. Afterward, we express our early bewilderment at Overwatch.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/soren-offworld http://www.upup.fm/show/soren-offworld Sat, 18 Jun 2016 20:00:00 GMT 1:04:27 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 46. Goofy as Heck Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 46. Goofy as Heck - Up Up Down Down Serenity Caldwell joins us to talk Apple TV. Serenity Caldwell joins us to discuss the Apple TV as a gaming platform. We talk about what games we’ve tried so far, the weaknesses of the Siri Remote, and what kind of games could be great on Apple TV. We discuss runner games, party games, and gams that are purposely bad. Afterwards we talk about Star Wars, since this episode was recorded in December when that was the cool thing to do.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/serenity-appletv http://www.upup.fm/show/serenity-appletv Sun, 06 Mar 2016 20:00:00 GMT 1:21:16 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 45. How the Hell to Make Firewatch Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 45. How the Hell to Make Firewatch - Up Up Down Down Campo Santo's Nels Anderson joins us to discuss making narrative games, and in particular, Campo Santo's new hit game Firewatch. Waving the spoilers flag high, we dig in to what makes Firewatch tick, the crazy world of branching narrative, tricky aspects of making the game, flapjacks, and the horrors of first-person character models. Afterward, we talk about weird bugs, The Witness, and 1988. Campo Santo’s Nels Anderson joins us to discuss making narrative games, and in particular, Campo Santo’s new hit game Firewatch. Waving the spoilers flag high, we dig in to what makes Firewatch tick, the crazy world of branching narrative, tricky aspects of making the game, flapjacks, and the horrors of first-person character models. Afterward, we talk about weird bugs, The Witness, and 1988.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/nels-firewatch http://www.upup.fm/show/nels-firewatch Fri, 19 Feb 2016 20:00:00 GMT 1:17:27 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 44. You're Buying a Child Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 44. You're Buying a Child - Up Up Down Down Chris Bourassa, Creative Director of Red Hook Games, joins us to talk about their hit new game Darkest Dungeon. We talk fairness, difficulty, early access, and corpses. Then we dig in to Chris' art direction, including the look and feel of the characters, and the tools and processes he uses to create the game's distinctive art. Afterward, we talk about some of the games we've been playing, stealth, and magic whales. Chris Bourassa, Creative Director of Red Hook Games, joins us to talk about their hit new game Darkest Dungeon. We talk fairness, difficulty, early access, and corpses. Then we dig in to Chris’ art direction, including the look and feel of the characters, and the tools and processes he uses to create the game’s distinctive art. Afterward, we talk about some of the games we’ve been playing, stealth, and magic whales.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/darkest-dungeon http://www.upup.fm/show/darkest-dungeon Sat, 23 Jan 2016 20:00:00 GMT 1:10:36 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 43. What the Heck? Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 43. What the Heck? - Up Up Down Down Tiff Arment joins us to discuss the ups and downs of survival games. We dig in to stark and frozen landscape of The Long Dark, the dark whimsy of Don't Starve, and Minecraft's role in kickstarting the whole genre. Afterwards, we discuss Prison Architect, the hardest difficulty in The Last of Us, Goat Simulator, and podcast microphones. Tiff Arment joins us to discuss the ups and downs of survival games. We dig in to stark and frozen landscape of The Long Dark, the dark whimsy of Don’t Starve, and Minecraft’s role in kickstarting the whole genre. Afterwards, we discuss Prison Architect, the hardest difficulty in The Last of Us, Goat Simulator, and podcast microphones.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/tiff-survival http://www.upup.fm/show/tiff-survival Sun, 15 Nov 2015 20:00:00 GMT 1:08:38 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 42. Flood Their Cities With Poop Water Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 42. Flood Their Cities With Poop Water - Up Up Down Down Karoliina Korppoo, Lead Designer on Cities Skylines, joins us to discuss simulation games. We discuss the challenges of simulations, making traffic work, cruise ships on land, how to focus on fun, and poop water. Afterwards, we discuss the new expansion After Dark, Diablo, and the glory of single-player games. Karoliina Korppoo, Lead Designer on Cities Skylines, joins us to discuss simulation games. We discuss the challenges of simulations, making traffic work, cruise ships on land, focusing on fun, and poop water. Afterwards, we discuss the new expansion After Dark, Diablo, and the glory of single-player games.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/karoliina-simulations http://www.upup.fm/show/karoliina-simulations Thu, 29 Oct 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:00:53 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 41. Let Me Pick Three Colors Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 41. Let Me Pick Three Colors - Up Up Down Down Firewatch's 3D Artist Jane Ng joins us to disuss 3D art in indie games. We talk about some of the remarkable ways Campo Santo has made Firewatch look beautiful and distinctive. We discuss procedural sky generation, stylistic fog systems, and general challenges with making art for games with small teams. Afterwards, we talk Dragon Age Inquisition, Mario Maker, and avoiding playing Destiny. Firewatch’s 3D Artist Jane Ng joins us to disuss 3D art in indie games. We talk about some of the remarkable ways Campo Santo has made Firewatch look beautiful and distinctive. We discuss procedural sky generation, stylistic fog systems, and general challenges with making art for games with small teams. Afterwards, we talk Dragon Age Inquisition, Mario Maker, and avoiding playing Destiny.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/art-of-firewatch-jane-ng http://www.upup.fm/show/art-of-firewatch-jane-ng Mon, 12 Oct 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:01:47 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 40. The Les Miserables Barricade Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 40. The Les Miserables Barricade - Up Up Down Down We're back for Season 2! Game designer Bobby Ross joins us to talk level design. We talk about the process of designing levels, lighting technology in 3D games, how to create balaced PvP, invisible walls, and other challenges of level design. Afterwards, we talk about what we liked at PAX. We’re back for Season 2!

Game designer Bobby Ross joins us to talk level design. We talk about the process of designing levels, lighting technology in 3D games, how to create balaced PvP, invisible walls, and other challenges of level design. Afterwards, we talk about what we liked at PAX.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/level-design-bobby-ross http://www.upup.fm/show/level-design-bobby-ross Mon, 28 Sep 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:34:39 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 39. Strumming the Strum Button Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 39. Strumming the Strum Button - Up Up Down Down Isometric's Steve Lubitz joins us to talk rhythm games. We start with the strange origins of rhythm games on the PlayStation in the 1990s and the craze of DDR. We dig in to the rise of plastic instruments, the joy of getting good at Rock Band, and the Great Plastic Crash of 2009. We touch on dance and karaoke games, and finish on what it takes for 3D to impress John Carmack. Isometric’s Steve Lubitz joins us to talk rhythm games. We start with the strange origins of rhythm games on the PlayStation in the 1990s and the craze of DDR. We dig in to the rise of plastic instruments, the joy of getting good at Rock Band, and the Great Plastic Crash of 2009. We touch on dance and karaoke games, and finish on what it takes for 3D to impress John Carmack.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/rhythm-lubitz http://www.upup.fm/show/rhythm-lubitz Fri, 27 Mar 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:24:24 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 38. The Bullet Spongiest Bullet Sponge Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 38. The Bullet Spongiest Bullet Sponge - Up Up Down Down Michael 'Rands' Lopp joins us to talk Destiny. We briefly discuss its budget and profitability before digging in to the question of why, despite its problems, it's a fun game. We dissect the Crucible PvP mode, matchmaking, the story or lack thereof, leveling, and bullet sponges. Afterwards, we fail at going off topic and talk about the expansion, raiding, voice acting, and the surprisingly clever UI. Michael “Rands” Lopp joins us to talk Destiny. We briefly discuss its budget and profitability before digging in to the question of why, despite its problems, it’s a fun game. We dissect the Crucible PvP mode, matchmaking, the story or lack thereof, leveling, and bullet sponges. Afterwards, we fail at going off topic and talk about the expansion, raiding, voice acting, and the surprisingly clever UI.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/destiny-rands http://www.upup.fm/show/destiny-rands Fri, 06 Mar 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:19:52 yes video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 37. Early Access Without Any Access Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 37. Early Access Without Any Access - Up Up Down Down John Walker, co-director and editor of Rock, Paper, Shotgun, joins us to discuss the state of PC gaming. We talk Early Access, Kickstarter, preorders, and the many pitfalls therein. We dig in to the profitability of PC ports, dismiss various kinds of football, dissect the longevity of old-school games, and try to guess the fate of Oculus. Afterward, we discuss terrible Early Access games, terrible hilarious games, and Allen's latest terrible game idea. John Walker, co-director and editor of Rock, Paper, Shotgun, joins us to discuss the state of PC gaming. We talk Early Access, Kickstarter, preorders, and the many pitfalls therein. We dig in to the profitability of PC ports, dismiss various kinds of football, dissect the longevity of old-school games, and try to guess the fate of Oculus. Afterward, we discuss terrible Early Access games, terrible hilarious games, and Allen’s latest terrible game idea.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/pc-gaming-john-walker http://www.upup.fm/show/pc-gaming-john-walker Fri, 06 Feb 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:24:34 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 36. Scintillating Amazon Javelins of the Whale Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 36. Scintillating Amazon Javelins of the Whale - Up Up Down Down Noel Berry, developer of the upcoming procedural platformer Skytorn, joins us to discuss procedural content in games. We talk about Skytorn and how its levels are built, and discuss many other indie games with procedural levels, from Minecraft to Don't Starve. We dig in to what kinds of games generated content works for and what kinds it doesn't, and how to model Paris with only a few hundred artists. Noel Berry, developer of the upcoming procedural platformer Skytorn, joins us to discuss procedural content in games. We talk about Skytorn and how its levels are built, and discuss many other indie games with procedural levels, from Minecraft to Don’t Starve. We dig in to what kinds of games generated content works for and what kinds it doesn’t, and how to model Paris with only a few hundred artists.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/procedural-content-noel-berry http://www.upup.fm/show/procedural-content-noel-berry Thu, 22 Jan 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:02:53 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 35. We're Made of Bells and Whistles Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 35. We're Made of Bells and Whistles - Up Up Down Down Maya Kramer, indie game marketing extraordinaire, joins us to talk PR and marketing. We discuss conferences and expos, getting the word out about indie games, the story of Towerfall, and how games filter up from the noise to journalists and platforms like PSN. Afterwards, we talk PSN outages, getting killed by dragons, and dystopian nudity. Maya Kramer, indie game marketing extraordinaire, joins us to talk PR and marketing. We discuss conferences and expos, getting the word out about indie games, the story of Towerfall, and how games filter up from the noise to journalists and platforms. Afterwards, we talk PSN outages, getting killed by dragons, and dystopian nudity.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/were-made-of-bells-and-whistles http://www.upup.fm/show/were-made-of-bells-and-whistles Tue, 06 Jan 2015 14:00:00 GMT 1:08:05 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 34. Watching someone else play Minecraft Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 34. Watching someone else play Minecraft - Up Up Down Down .... John Moltz, co-author of The Visual Guide to Minecraft, joins us to discuss the weird and wonderful world of Minecraft. We discuss why kids are obsessed it, managing servers, mods, Java, and trolling. Bonus: Nigel does a special interview with three further subject experts - his kids.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/watching-someone-play-minecraft http://www.upup.fm/show/watching-someone-play-minecraft Fri, 12 Dec 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:22:47 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 33. Being a Good Citizen on the Platform Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 33. Being a Good Citizen on the Platform - Up Up Down Down Matt Comi of Big Bucket joins us to discuss developing games on Apple platforms. We talk about Matt and Neven Mrgan's new game Space Age, porting games written for iOS and the Mac, Swift and Objective-C as languages for game development, and building the game engine and level editor for Space Age. Afterwards, we talk about a couple of the recent game industry travesties. Matt Comi of Big Bucket joins us to discuss developing games on Apple platforms. We talk about Matt and Neven Mrgan’s new game Space Age, porting games written for iOS and the Mac, Swift and Objective-C as languages for game development, and building the game engine and level editor for Space Age. Afterwards, we talk about a couple of the recent game industry travesties.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/being-a-good-citizen http://www.upup.fm/show/being-a-good-citizen Fri, 28 Nov 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:07:24 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 32. Perfect Combination of Quality and Quantity Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 32. Perfect Combination of Quality and Quantity - Up Up Down Down This week Federico Viticci joins us to talk digital distribution. We discuss about Nintendo's attempts to court indie developers compared to Sony and Microsoft's, the programs that make cross-plaftorm development plausible for indies, the various digital download platforms both on the consoles and the App Store, curation on the App Store and Steam, the effects of discounting on games. This week Federico Viticci joins us to talk digital distribution. We discuss about Nintendo’s attempts to court indie developers compared to Sony and Microsoft’s, the programs that make cross-plaftorm development plausible for indies, the various digital download platforms both on the consoles and the App Store, curation on the App Store and Steam, the effects of discounting on games.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/quality-and-quantity http://www.upup.fm/show/quality-and-quantity Mon, 24 Nov 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:21:48 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 31. I Want to Kinda Annoy People Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 31. I Want to Kinda Annoy People - Up Up Down Down Desert Golfing's Justin Smith joins us from an alien spaceship to discuss reward in games, or a lack thereof. We talk about the world's reception to his game Desert Golfing, and game design tools like high scores, story progression, leveling up, and sparkles. We also touch on Justin's games No Brakes Valet and Enviro-Bear 2000, and the inherent reward you get from watching an indie developer you love succeed. Desert Golfing’s Justin Smith joins us from an alien spaceship to discuss reward in games, or a lack thereof. We talk about the world’s reception to his game Desert Golfing, and game design tools like high scores, story progression, leveling up, and sparkles. We also touch on Justin’s games No Brakes Valet and Enviro-Bear 2000, and the inherent reward you get from watching an indie developer you love succeed.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/kinda-annoy-people http://www.upup.fm/show/kinda-annoy-people Sat, 15 Nov 2014 14:00:00 GMT 53:52 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 30. Talking About Caragors Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 30. Talking About Caragors - Up Up Down Down Isometric's Georgia Dow joins us to discuss good and bad enemy AI. After an important word on Gamergate, we dig in to the sophisticated AI of Pac-Man. We go in depth on Shadows of Mordor and its Nemesis System, and the AI in various other games, stealth and otherwise. Allen complains about bad RPG AI, Nigel tells us a tale of bad car AI, and Georgia gives us some very crucial information about pandas. Isometric’s Georgia Dow joins us to discuss good and bad enemy AI. After an important word on Gamergate, we dig in to the sophisticated AI of Pac-Man. We go in depth on Shadows of Mordor and its Nemesis System, and the AI in various other games, stealth and otherwise. Allen complains about bad RPG AI, Nigel tells us of bad car AI, and Georgia gives us some very crucial information about pandas.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/georgia http://www.upup.fm/show/georgia Thu, 30 Oct 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:06:55 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 29. Shakespeares Were Five Acts Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 29. Shakespeares Were Five Acts - Up Up Down Down Ryan Payton, in the midst of shipping Episode 3 of the critically acclaimed République, joins us to discuss episodic games. We start with a diversion into the challenge of supporting slower and older devices, then talk Season's Passes, approaches to releasing game episodes, Telltale Games, and then go more in depth on République. Afterward, we talk about Destiny, Shadows of Mordor, console sales numbers, and buy some games on PSN. Ryan Payton, in the midst of shipping Episode 3 of the critically acclaimed République, joins us to discuss episodic games. We start with a diversion into the challenge of supporting slower and older devices, then talk Season’s Passes, approaches to releasing game episodes, Telltale Games, and then go more in depth on République. Afterward, we talk about Destiny, Shadows of Mordor, console sales numbers, and buy some games on PSN.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/shakespeares-were-five-acts http://www.upup.fm/show/shakespeares-were-five-acts Thu, 23 Oct 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:22:28 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 28. 400,000 Boar-killing Bots Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 28. 400,000 Boar-killing Bots - Up Up Down Down Kristen Bornemann, Development Director of the critically acclaimed MMO Guild Wars 2, joins us to talk scaling MMOs and other games. We talk about smooth and rocky launches, the death of 'realms', and Guild Wars 2's novel business model. We also discuss hackers, shipping bi-weekly updates, and Blizzard's Titan. We finish on a dark and stormy note. Kristen Bornemann, Development Director of the critically acclaimed MMO Guild Wars 2, joins us to talk scaling MMOs and other games. We talk about smooth and rocky launches, the death of “realms”, and Guild Wars 2’s novel business model. We also discuss hackers, shipping bi-weekly updates, and Blizzard’s Titan. We finish on a dark and stormy note.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/boar-killing-bots http://www.upup.fm/show/boar-killing-bots Sat, 18 Oct 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:18:24 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 27. A Tiny Game That You Can Play Forever Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 27. A Tiny Game That You Can Play Forever - Up Up Down Down Asher Vollmer, creator of Threes and Close Castles, joins us to talk puzzle games. We discuss the process of designing developing Threes, and what goes in to making a great little puzzle game. We then talk about the whimsical minimalism that works so well in indie games, and how to bring them to life. We talk about difficulty, complexity, and how to tune games. We touch on the effects of free to play on puzzle games, and how it makes us feel weird. Afterwards, we talk Wii U games, Divinity: Original Sin, trying to get our RPG fix, and Manwiches. Asher Vollmer, creator of Threes and Close Castles, joins us to talk puzzle games. We discuss the process of designing developing Threes, and what goes in to making a great little puzzle game. We then talk about the whimsical minimalism that works so well in indie games, and how to bring them to life. We talk about difficulty, complexity, and how to tune games. We touch on the effects of free to play on puzzle games, and how it makes us feel weird. Afterwards, we talk Wii U games, Divinity: Original Sin, trying to get our RPG fix, and Manwiches.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/a-tiny-game-that-you-can-play-forever http://www.upup.fm/show/a-tiny-game-that-you-can-play-forever Fri, 03 Oct 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:14:26 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 26. Final_Final_REAL_FINAL_v5.wav Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 26. Final_Final_REAL_FINAL_v5.wav - Up Up Down Down Matthew Marteinsson, audio designer at Klei Entertainment, joins us to discuss sound design in games. We talk about the various techniques Matt used in Klei's recent game Don't Stave, from bees to gobblers. We discuss recording sound effects, what makes great sound design, what makes bad sound design, and some of what makes voice acting a pain. We also touch on Destiny, and get a little epic. Matthew Marteinsson, audio designer at Klei Entertainment, joins us to discuss sound design in games. We talk about the various techniques Matt used in Klei’s recent game Don’t Stave, from bees to gobblers. We discuss recording sound effects, what makes great sound design, what makes bad sound design, and some of what makes voice acting a pain. We also touch on Destiny, and get a little epic.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/sound http://www.upup.fm/show/sound Tue, 23 Sep 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:11:47 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 25. So Unreal is Just Amazing Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 25. So Unreal is Just Amazing - Up Up Down Down Martiancraft's Jeff LaMarche joins us to discuss 3D game engines. We discuss the core features of a game engine, what Unity brings to the table, and why it has become so popular for indie games like Martiancraft's Republic Sniper. Then we dig in to Unreal, Jeff's team's switch to it from Unity, and what makes it so wonderfully fantastic. Martiancraft’s Jeff LaMarche joins us to discuss 3D game engines. We discuss the core features of a game engine, what Unity brings to the table, and why it has become so popular for indie games like Martiancraft’s Republic Sniper. Then we dig in to Unreal, Jeff’s team’s switch to it from Unity, and what makes it so wonderfully fantastic.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/unreal http://www.upup.fm/show/unreal Fri, 05 Sep 2014 14:00:00 GMT 1:32:21 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 24. Walking with a Voiceover Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 24. Walking with a Voiceover - Up Up Down Down Daniel Cook of Spry Fox joins us to discuss content-focused and system-focused game design. We talk about the rise of narrative games like Gone Home and Journey, and contrast them to system-centric games that offer deeper gameplay, at the expense of greater risk to game developers. We talk about how these forces have affected Spry Fox's games, and dig in to their latest, Road Not Taken. Daniel Cook of Spry Fox joins us to discuss content-focused and system-focused game design. We talk about the rise of narrative games like Gone Home and Journey, and contrast them to system-centric games that offer deeper gameplay, at the expense of greater risk to game developers. We talk about how these forces have affected Spry Fox’s games, and dig in to their latest, Road Not Taken.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/walking-with-a-voiceover http://www.upup.fm/show/walking-with-a-voiceover Fri, 15 Aug 2014 11:00:00 GMT 1:14:10 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 23. How Not to Doom Yourself Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 23. How Not to Doom Yourself - Up Up Down Down Curtis Lassam joins us to discuss the great failures in video games. We kick things off with Jurassic Park: Trespasser, then learn about Curtis' Three Rules to Not Doom Yourself. We follow the rocky career of Tim Schafer, then Nigel tells us all about Daikatana. Afterwards, we bat around a bad idea for a video game, and talk couch co-op games. Curtis Lassam joins us to discuss the great failures in video games. We kick things off with Jurassic Park: Trespasser, then learn about Curtis’ Three Rules to Not Doom Yourself. We follow the rocky career of Tim Schafer, then Nigel tells us all about Daikatana. Afterwards, we bat around a bad idea for a video game, and talk couch co-op games.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/how-not-to-doom-yourself http://www.upup.fm/show/how-not-to-doom-yourself Fri, 08 Aug 2014 11:00:00 GMT 1:06:39 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 22. Games Are Things Made By People Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 22. Games Are Things Made By People - Up Up Down Down Adam 'Atomic' Saltsman joins us to discuss collaboration and sustanability in the world of indie games. We talk about Adam's new venture Finji Games, and collaborating with fans, from early access to Earliest Access. We fondly remember Canabalt, remember that critical hits aren't always commercial hits, and discuss how contracting fills the gaps between projects. We finish by discussing the intense competitive pressure in the indie market, and the daunting task of building a 3D game. Adam “Atomic” Saltsman joins us to discuss collaboration and sustanability in the world of indie games.

We talk about Adam’s new venture Finji Games, and collaborating with fans, from early access to Earliest Access. We fondly remember Canabalt, remember that critical hits aren’t always commercial hits, and discuss how contracting fills the gaps between projects. We finish by discussing the intense competitive pressure in the indie market, and the daunting task of building a 3D game.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/games-are-things-made-by-people http://www.upup.fm/show/games-are-things-made-by-people Fri, 18 Jul 2014 11:00:00 GMT 1:09:41 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 21. A Complete Tub of Crap Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 21. A Complete Tub of Crap - Up Up Down Down Guy English returns to discuss 3D graphics APIs, so hold on to your butts. We start with the origins of the GPU, and recount the evolution of graphics APIs. We dig in to what a modern GPU actually does, and then discuss Apple's new graphics API, Metal. Guy and Nigel reminisce about just how horrible programming for the PlayStation 2 was, we talk latency, and finally Guy explores his relationship with Riddler trophies. Guy English returns this week to discuss 3D graphics APIs, so hold on to your butts.

We start with the origins of the GPU, and recount the evolution of graphics APIs. We dig in to what a modern GPU actually does, and then discuss Apple’s new graphics API, Metal. Guy and Nigel reminisce about just how horrible programming for the PlayStation 2 was, we talk latency, and finally Guy explores his relationship with Riddler trophies.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/complete-tub-of-crap http://www.upup.fm/show/complete-tub-of-crap Fri, 18 Jul 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:38:41 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 20. That's Not My Shepard Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 20. That's Not My Shepard - Up Up Down Down Brianna Wu and Amanda Warner of Giant Spacekat Games join us to talk about narrative in games. We talk about our favourite storylines, developmentof Giant Spacekat's imminent game Revolution 60, Unreal Engine, hand-crafted animations, and the Spacekats' plans for a sequel. Brianna Wu and Amanda Warner of Giant Spacekat Games join us to talk about narrative in games. We talk about our favourite storylines, the development of Giant Spacekat’s imminent game Revolution 60, Unreal Engine, hand-crafted animations, and some initial thoughts on the final build of Revolution 60.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/thats-not-my-shepard http://www.upup.fm/show/thats-not-my-shepard Sat, 12 Jul 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:30:50 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 19. They Shipped It Anyway Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 19. They Shipped It Anyway - Up Up Down Down Philippe Casgrain of NSNorth and formerly of Transgaming joins us to discuss porting games. We discuss the technologies behind virtualizing games on the Mac, ports gone bad, and the effects of consoles on the PC versions of games. Then, we talk a bit about Wii U games and Hearthstone. Philippe Casgrain of NSNorth and formerly of Transgaming joins us to discuss porting games. We discuss the technologies behind virtualizing games on the Mac, ports gone bad, and the effects of consoles on the PC versions of games. Then, we talk a bit about Wii U games and Hearthstone.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/they-shipped-it-anyway http://www.upup.fm/show/they-shipped-it-anyway Fri, 04 Jul 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:05:04 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 18. There Are No Rules Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 18. There Are No Rules - Up Up Down Down Toca Boca's Amanda Rösler joins us to discuss making great games for kids. We talk about why Toca Boca's apps are more like toys than they are games, games for kids on the App Store, and the pitfalls of making games for kids. Later, we talk about co-op games we're looking forward to playing. Toca Boca’s Amanda Rösler joins us to discuss making great games for kids. We talk about why Toca Boca’s apps are more like toys than they are games, games for kids on the App Store, the pitfalls of making games for kids, and tea parties. Later, we talk about co-op games we’re looking forward to playing.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/there-are-no-rules http://www.upup.fm/show/there-are-no-rules Fri, 27 Jun 2014 10:00:00 GMT 59:19 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 17. The Main Character is a Serial Killer! Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 17. The Main Character is a Serial Killer! - Up Up Down Down iMore's Peter Cohen joins us to discuss morality in video games, and what it means to play dictators, serial killers, and just plain jerks. We determine whether or not this makes us bad people, and whether or not it's going to traumatize our kids. Finally, we discuss the futility of going to E3. iMore’s Peter Cohen joins us to discuss morality in video games, and what it means to play dictators, serial killers, and just plain jerks. We determine whether or not this makes us bad people, and whether or not it’s going to traumatize our kids. Finally, we discuss the futility of going to E3.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/the-main-character-is-a-serial-killer http://www.upup.fm/show/the-main-character-is-a-serial-killer Fri, 20 Jun 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:06:33 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 16. The Looney Tunes School of Stealth Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 16. The Looney Tunes School of Stealth - Up Up Down Down Justin Voss of Low Earth Orbit joins us to talk stealth games. We discuss the origin of stealth games, instant failure, and the joy of finding alternative ways to complete a mission. Then, we rag on Metal Gear Solid and salivate over E3 announcements. Justin Voss of Low Earth Orbit joins us to talk stealth games. We discuss the origin of stealth games, instant failure, and the joy of finding alternative ways to complete a mission. Then, we rag on Metal Gear Solid and salivate over E3 announcements.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/looney-tunes-stealth http://www.upup.fm/show/looney-tunes-stealth Fri, 13 Jun 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:12:06 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 15. Being a Bad Spider-Man Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 15. Being a Bad Spider-Man - Up Up Down Down Scott Stevenson of Low Earth Orbit joins us to talk open world games. We discuss side quests, player choice, railroading, and trying to tell a story when the player can ruin everything. As usual, we end with a diversion into games we're excited about, and some peculiar Kickstarters. Scott Stevenson of Low Earth Orbit joins us to talk open world games. We discuss side quests, railroading, and trying to tell a story when the player can ruin everything. As usual, we end with a diversion into games we’re excited about, and some peculiar Kickstarters.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/being-a-bad-spiderman http://www.upup.fm/show/being-a-bad-spiderman Fri, 30 May 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:18:50 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 14. The Red LEDs Were Cheaper Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 14. The Red LEDs Were Cheaper - Up Up Down Down Ars Technica's Kyle Orland joins us to discuss the great failures in game consoles. We talk about our favourite doomed consoles, the story of Sega's downfall, and Nintendo's journey through the desert with the Wii U. Ars Technica’s Kyle Orland joins us to discuss the great failures in game consoles. We talk about our favourite doomed consoles, the story of Sega’s downfall, and Nintendo’s journey through the desert with the Wii U.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/orland http://www.upup.fm/show/orland Fri, 23 May 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:17:37 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 13. A QWOP Sort of Humour Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 13. A QWOP Sort of Humour - Up Up Down Down Developer and humourist Curtis Lassam joins us to discuss humour in games. We discuss comically hard games, sandboxes as a vehicle for comedy, what makes it hard to write a funny game, and a goat. Developer and humourist Curtis Lassam joins us to discuss humour in games. We discuss comically hard games, sandboxes as a vehicle for comedy, what makes it hard to write a funny game, and a goat.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/qwop-sort-of-humour http://www.upup.fm/show/qwop-sort-of-humour Fri, 16 May 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:05:32 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 12. First Person Shooter Monkey Island Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 12. First Person Shooter Monkey Island - Up Up Down Down Neven Mrgan, designer of wonderful apps and games, joins us to discuss retro games. We discuss his upcoming game Space Age, the challenges of pixel art, and Neven's previous games The Incident and Blackbar. Neven Mrgan, designer of wonderful apps and games, joins us to discuss retro games. We discuss his upcoming game Space Age, the challenges of pixel art, and Neven’s previous games The Incident and Blackbar.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/first-person-monkey-island http://www.upup.fm/show/first-person-monkey-island Fri, 09 May 2014 12:00:00 GMT 1:04:51 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 11. Secret Alien Technology Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 11. Secret Alien Technology - Up Up Down Down Myke Hurley, world-renowned podcaster, joins us to discuss portable consoles, the future of the PS Vita, and the iPhone as a portable game console. Myke Hurley, world-renowned podcaster, joins us to discuss portable consoles, the future of the PS Vita, and the iPhone as a portable game console.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/secret-alien-technology http://www.upup.fm/show/secret-alien-technology Fri, 02 May 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:11:04 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 10. Nobody Has Gold Stars Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 10. Nobody Has Gold Stars - Up Up Down Down Grace 'GTZ' of Fat, Ugly, or Slutty joins us to discuss jerks on Xbox Live, getting people to play nice together, and hellbanning. Grace “GTZ” of Fat, Ugly, or Slutty joins us to discuss jerks on Xbox Live, getting people to play nice together, and hellbanning.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/nobody-has-gold-stars http://www.upup.fm/show/nobody-has-gold-stars Fri, 25 Apr 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:08:57 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 9. Getting Bored of Clicking On Cows Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 9. Getting Bored of Clicking On Cows - Up Up Down Down Angelina Fabbro of Mozilla joins us to discuss games on the web, why the hell people are still using C++, and business models for web-based games. After that, we jump in to games we're playing on the iPad, what's wrong with MMOs, and how Pokémon will never die. Angelina Fabbro of Mozilla joins us to discuss games on the web, why the hell people are still using C++, and business models for web-based games. After that, we jump in to games we’re playing on the iPad, what’s wrong with MMOs, and how Pokémon will never die.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/clicking-on-cows http://www.upup.fm/show/clicking-on-cows Fri, 18 Apr 2014 10:00:00 GMT 1:27:51 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 8. Architecture and Forgiveness Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 8. Architecture and Forgiveness - Up Up Down Down Monument Valley's Ken Wong joins us to discuss games as art, Monument Valley, and the business of crafting meaningful games. Monument Valley’s Ken Wong joins us to discuss games as art, Monument Valley, and the business of crafting meaningful games.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/architecture-and-forgiveness http://www.upup.fm/show/architecture-and-forgiveness Fri, 11 Apr 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:26:52 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 7. Criticizing Water For Being Wet Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 7. Criticizing Water For Being Wet - Up Up Down Down Scott Stevenson joins us to discuss game reviews, game-breaking bugs, and what's wrong with Lara Croft getting impaled. Scott Stevenson of Low Earth Orbit joins us to discuss game reviews, game-breaking bugs, and what’s wrong with Lara Croft getting impaled.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/criticizing-water http://www.upup.fm/show/criticizing-water Fri, 04 Apr 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:28:45 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 6. My Whole Colony Filled Up With Cabbage Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 6. My Whole Colony Filled Up With Cabbage - Up Up Down Down Gaslamp Games’ David Baumgart joins us to discuss Clockwork Empires, simulations, and pickled fungi. Gaslamp Games’ David Baumgart joins us to discuss Clockwork Empires, simulations, and pickled fungi.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/filled-up-with-cabbage http://www.upup.fm/show/filled-up-with-cabbage Fri, 28 Mar 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:14:45 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 5. You Die Instantly Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 5. You Die Instantly - Up Up Down Down Tyson Kallberg joins us to discuss why games are getting easier, what makes us want to ragequit, and death by checkpoint. Tyson Kallberg joins us to discuss why games are getting easier, what makes us want to ragequit, and death by checkpoint.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/you-die-instantly http://www.upup.fm/show/you-die-instantly Fri, 21 Mar 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:14:42 yes video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 4. It Shipped And It Was Fast Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 4. It Shipped And It Was Fast - Up Up Down Down Guy English and Nigel tell tales of the hacks that make games work, from fast inverse square root to assembly shenanigans. Allen tries to keep things understandable for non-programmers, and fails spectacularly. Guy English and Nigel tell tales of the hacks that make games work, from fast inverse square root to assembly shenanigans. Allen tries to keep things understandable for non-programmers, and fails spectacularly.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/it-shipped http://www.upup.fm/show/it-shipped Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:33:56 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 3. Three Quarters of Half-Life One Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 3. Three Quarters of Half-Life One - Up Up Down Down Patrick Gibson joins us to discuss games that are too long, side quests, tearing up, and flapping. Patrick Gibson joins us to discuss games that are too long, side quests, tearing up, and flapping.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/three-quarters http://www.upup.fm/show/three-quarters Fri, 07 Mar 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:10:52 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 2. A Perfect Storm of Crummy Business Decisions Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 2. A Perfect Storm of Crummy Business Decisions - Up Up Down Down Parveen Kaler joins us to discuss sequels, plastic guitars, and the unfair advantage of being Batman. Parveen Kaler joins us to discuss sequels, plastic guitars, and the unfair advantage of being Batman.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/a-perfect-storm http://www.upup.fm/show/a-perfect-storm Fri, 28 Feb 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:09:37 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers 1. Container of Monetary Units Allen Pike and Nigel Brooke 1. Container of Monetary Units - Up Up Down Down Matt Kump joins us to discuss In App Purchase, what horrible things it's done to the games we love, and what we can learn from Party Poker. Matt Kump joins us to discuss In App Purchase, what horrible things it’s done to the games we love, and what we can learn from Party Poker.

]]> http://www.upup.fm/show/container-of-monetary-units http://www.upup.fm/show/container-of-monetary-units Fri, 21 Feb 2014 09:00:00 GMT 1:11:44 no video-games,games,up-up-down-down,gaming,games,upup,up,down,allen,pike,nigel,brooke,video,gamers