The hottest Gaming Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Forging is LIVE on App.axie!

The Lunacian • 46 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🔮 Crypto Blockchain Gaming Digital Assets NFTs Economy
  1. Forging is a new feature on App.axie that allows users to burn materials and create new on-chain items. This adds a fun new layer to the Axie experience.
  2. The first items you can forge are Super Cocochoco and Dark Flame, each providing different benefits to your Axies. Players need to meet certain requirements to access these items.
  3. In the future, more consumables and types of items will be available for forging, expanding the ways players can interact with the Axie universe.

Vol. 2, Issue 21 - Aiden's Parting Pokémon Gift

Johto Times • 59 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming Comics Art Collecting Memories
  1. Aiden shares a touching memory about a special Pokémon card gifted to him by his friend Seojin before she moved away. It shows how friendships can leave lasting impressions, even if they become distant.
  2. The Pokémon community continues to grow, with new card sets and events being announced regularly. It's exciting for fans to stay updated and connect over their shared interests.
  3. Nostalgia plays a big role in Aiden's journey with Pokémon, as he takes a break from gaming and later returns to reignite his passion. This shows that interests can come back to life at any moment.

Huson Soft HuCAL

Computer Ads from the Past • 384 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Software Gaming History Translation
  1. Hudson Soft was a Japanese company that started as an electronics store and later moved into game development.
  2. Hudson Soft created popular games like Bomberman, Adventure Island, and Bonk for various gaming systems.
  3. HuCAL, a product by Hudson Soft, was initially thought to be a word processor but was actually a spreadsheet used on Sega systems.

How many games do PC/console players own, & do they 'main' just one?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Data Analysis
  1. PC and console players tend to own a large number of games, with varying preferences on the amount of games owned
  2. Steam players show a trend where the number of games owned impacts the diversity of playtime spent on each game
  3. Console players, such as Xbox and PlayStation users, display different patterns in game ownership compared to Steam users

🎮 How is Gen. AI Impacting the Gaming Sector?

Overlooked by Alexandre Dewez • 157 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🕹 Technology AI Gaming Infrastructure
  1. The gaming industry is challenging for infrastructure startups due to various factors like the long tail of independent studios and project-based nature.
  2. Generative AI tools can automate up to 50% of the gaming value chain, accelerating game development and enhancing quality.
  3. Gaming companies are at varying stages in adopting AI tools, from experimenting with asset generation to integrating AI into core game development operations.
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BreakTime - Destroy Your Meetings

eieio games • 119 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Software Productivity Development Innovation
  1. BreakTime is a game that turns your meetings into a fun experience, literally by breaking bricks. You can play it inside Google Calendar instead of just looking at meeting times.
  2. When you play, BreakTime has an option to decline meetings for you after the game. This adds a humorous twist to handling a busy schedule.
  3. The creator of BreakTime was inspired by friends and enjoyed making it, showing how collaboration can lead to fun and creative projects.

At the edge of my map

Austin Kleon • 1418 implied HN points • 17 May 22
🎭️ Culture Relationships Personal Growth Artistic expression Gaming Life Changes
  1. Sometimes, we reach a point in life where we feel lost or unsure, like being at the edge of a map. It's okay to acknowledge that feeling without fear.
  2. Being a good friend means listening and asking questions, especially when someone is going through tough changes. Support is crucial during uncertain times.
  3. In life, just like in video games, we might hit invisible walls that stop our progress. Understanding this can help us be patient as we navigate through unfamiliar territories.

Who's top of Steam Next Fest for June 2023?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 314 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Platforms Virtual reality Mobile Gaming
  1. Steam's June Next Fest featured around 1,000 PC game demos with various top performers in different categories.
  2. Important points were highlighted in the ongoing FTC vs. Microsoft case, including PlayStation's role in Microsoft's acquisition of Bethesda and Activision's revenue split tactics.
  3. Recent game platform and discovery news include Meta's VR subscription service, Nike's collaboration with Fortnite, and insights on Chinese game approvals.

Betting the kingdom

SuperJoost Playlist • 178 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Entertainment Finance Media Online Platforms
  1. Disney's $1.5 billion investment in gaming highlights the shift of entertainment firms towards the gaming industry.
  2. Microsoft's potential move to release Xbox games on PlayStation has stirred controversy among fans.
  3. Nintendo's decline in earnings, future of the Switch, and Roblox's strategy of user-generated content indicate interesting trends in the gaming industry.

House Flipper 2: how the sequel 'cleaned up' in the charts

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 176 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Streaming Surveys Statistics
  1. House Flipper 2 sold well with 131,000 units in 3 days and was profitable after 3 days.
  2. House Flipper 2's success was attributed to a viral concept, a successful demo, and support from the original game.
  3. The game discovery news highlighted December's most-streamed games, including GTA V, Call of Duty, and new releases.

Why do some great PC/console games fail to 'go big'?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Data Analysis Tech news Game Development Digital Platforms
  1. Some great PC/console games may struggle to become popular despite positive ratings and marketing efforts.
  2. The genre of a game, such as 'Metroidvania', can impact its success due to market saturation and competition from existing popular titles.
  3. Publishers should focus on understanding player behavior, adapting marketing strategies, and fostering organic excitement to improve game reach and success.

One step beyond: how game contracts could evolve

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Contracts Marketing Industry News
  1. Game development contracts have evolved over the years, shifting towards a structure that allows developers to recoup a percentage of revenue from the first dollar grossed.
  2. Successful game marketing strategies include emphasizing unique gameplay features, clarifying the game's genre, and leveraging multiple channels like social media and newsletters.
  3. Engaging directly with the audience through newsletters and social media can significantly boost interest and wishlist numbers for upcoming games.

Video game pitch decks: how you get them 'right'!

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 14 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Platforms Market Analysis
  1. Pitch decks for video games should focus on the 'ask', studio experience, traction, and comps.
  2. Successful platforms like Steam prioritize developer-centric attitude, predictability, and consumer stickiness.
  3. Latest game discovery news includes Sony's PS5 cloud streaming, return of Indie MEGABOOTH, and various game-specific updates.

Which PC genres convert pre-launch interest the best?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Cloud Hardware Market Streaming
  1. Consider that the best-converting PC genre tag is 'Escape Room', but creating these games may pose challenges like online co-op mechanics.
  2. While 'Sports' is another well-converting genre, success in niche games might not guarantee significant financial results.
  3. Cloud gaming competition concerns arise as Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard is cleared by the EU, with conditions, amid regulatory scrutiny.

IGN is unionizing

Updater, Shannon Liao's gaming newsletter • 137 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Tech industry Tech Partnerships AI
  1. IGN employees are forming a union with the majority of them signing union authorization cards due to current industry instability and a desire for protection.
  2. Xbox reassured employees in a town hall that they have no plans to stop making consoles amidst rumors of Xbox exclusives moving to the PS5.
  3. Disney is investing in Epic Games, hinting at a possible metaverse collaboration without using the term explicitly. The potential partnership is seen as a strategic move by Disney after past gaming industry setbacks.

Insomniac breach

SuperJoost Playlist • 218 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Data Breach Cybersecurity Tech industry Software Development
  1. The business of hacking video game publishers is growing, with recent incidents showing flaws in hackers' business fundamentals.
  2. Hacking video game companies does not always result in financial gain for the hackers, as evidenced by unsuccessful attempts to sell stolen data.
  3. Leaking information about upcoming video games may actually generate more excitement and interest in the games rather than spoil the experience for players.

Vol. 2, Issue 19 - Interview with Tsukasa Hosono

Johto Times • 59 implied HN points • 09 May 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Gaming Interviews Collectibles Media
  1. Tsukasa Hosono won a special Pokémon Snap photo contest in 1999, receiving unique Pokémon cards featuring his Charmander picture. These cards are very rare and hold significant value today.
  2. Pokémon GO is hosting a new event called 'Catching Wonders', offering bonuses for catches and spins. There’s also a long-term challenge with a Master Ball as a reward for dedicated players.
  3. The Pokémon trading card game has seen a rise in the value of cards, prompting collectors to take extra steps for safekeeping, like using fireproof safes.

Axie Classic Guilds are LIVE!

The Lunacian • 276 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Axie Classic Guilds are now live, allowing players to create or join guilds for competitive advantages.
  2. Players can now deposit AXS and SLP, withdraw SLP, earn Contribution Points, and hire fellow Guild members' axies.
  3. Register for the Grand Tournament to accumulate Guild Points and climb the Guild Leaderboard, with prizes up for grabs.

Vol. 2, Issue 15 - Dazz's Pokémon Memories

Johto Times • 79 implied HN points • 11 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming Memories Community Pop culture Events
  1. Dazz has been a big Pokémon fan since childhood, starting with Pokémon Red and Blue. He loved the games and anime, which helped him make friends after moving to a new school.
  2. His passion for Pokémon led him to create and contribute content for popular websites like The Spriters Resource and Did You Know Gaming. This allowed him to share his knowledge and connect with other fans.
  3. Dazz believes that Pokémon has been more than just a game for him; it has helped him grow and feel empowered. It played a big role in shaping who he is today.

Vol. 2, Issue 11 - Interview with Pokémon Zeo!

Johto Times • 99 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming Community Nostalgia Art Interviews
  1. Pokémon Zeo was a community where fans could create their own fake Pokémon cards. It had resources like templates and tutorials to help everyone get started.
  2. The website was not just about cards; it built a friendly community. Many people found a positive space there, making lasting friendships.
  3. Even though Pokémon Zeo closed down in 2014, the memories and connections still live on through social media and gatherings among former members.

Kaidro’s Pilots NFT Presale starts TODAY!

Ronin’s Newsletter • 24 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🔮 Crypto NFTs Blockchain Digital Assets Gaming
  1. The presale for Kaidro's Pilots NFTs starts today and runs for one day only. It's a special opportunity to buy tickets to potentially win a unique digital collectible.
  2. Each ticket costs 125 RON, and if you don't win, you'll get your money back. Make sure to grab your tickets before the presale ends tomorrow morning!
  3. These Pilot NFTs are not just collectibles; they also unlock exclusive game features and benefits within the Kaidro universe, making them valuable for players and fans alike.

Is Monopoly GO really "PROFITABLE"?

The GameMakers Letter • 137 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Gaming User Acquisition Marketing Mobile Gaming Monetization
  1. Monopoly GO seems to be a successful mobile game, generating significant revenue and downloads
  2. The concept of profitability in free-to-play games can be complex, with various factors influencing true financial performance
  3. There may be discrepancies in claims of profitability, as success in the game industry can be evaluated differently

Vol. 2, Issue 17 - Interview with Nick Roberts (Pokémon World Magazine)

Johto Times • 59 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Media Entertainment Gaming Community
  1. Pokémon World Magazine, which later became Pocket World, ran from 2000 to 2015 and was the first dedicated magazine for Pokémon fans in the UK. It included news, fan-created content, and community involvement, making it a special part of many childhoods.
  2. The magazine changed its name due to pressure from The Pokémon Company after they learned about it, causing sales to drop significantly. Fans wanted the magazine to focus on Pokémon only, but it had to cover other games to stay afloat.
  3. Nick Roberts, the former editor, emphasized the importance of supporting magazines and fan content because they are created by people who need to pay their bills. It's a reminder that content isn't really free as someone is always behind it.

Unity, divided

SuperJoost Playlist • 297 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Software Mobile Market Trends
  1. Roblox CEO emphasizes platform as a tool for communication and connection, amidst controversy and legal concerns.
  2. Unity's new fee structure based on installs sparks outrage among game developers, especially affecting smaller studios.
  3. Apple enhances high-end gaming on new iPhones, attracting popular franchises to mobile and competing with console versions.

Why games get big post-release discovery boosts

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 235 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Influencers Mobile games Digital Platforms
  1. Games can experience surges in popularity post-release due to factors like multiplayer additions and influencer attention.
  2. Steam wishlist conversion rates may vary slightly based on the age of the wishlist, but older wishlists still have good potential for conversion.
  3. Different strategies, such as launching at 1.0, adding multiplayer features, or aiming for viral multiplayer success, can lead to post-release boosts in game discovery.

Ronin is LIVE on Dune!

Ronin’s Newsletter • 24 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🔮 Crypto Blockchain Analytics Data Gaming Community
  1. Ronin is now accessible on Dune Analytics, allowing users to analyze on-chain transactions and build dashboards for various data insights.
  2. Creating dashboards on Dune is easy; just sign up, choose Ronin, and start building your queries to visualize data.
  3. The Dune API lets users get real-time data updates and notifications, making it simpler for developers and analysts to track important metrics.