Dungeons & Dragons at New College Leading to a Career in Videogames with David Goldfarb

This fascinating episode of the Palm Court Podcast takes listeners on a journey through David Goldfarb's experiences at New College of Florida and his life and career since then. As an alum who did not finish his degree at New College, Dave provides a unique perspective into the experimental nature of the school in the late 80s and early 90s. The conversation begins with Goldfarb reminiscing about his time at New College, the punk rock ethos on campus, and the intense academic and social environment. Things then take a dark turn as the group frankly discusses the high-stakes risks and lack of safety nets at the school during that era. Goldfarb shares his own story of failure and lessons learned that eventually led him to a successful career. We discover interesting ways in which Stanley Fish is woven into the tale. The highlight of the episode is when Goldfarb vividly describes his obsessive Dungeons & Dragons gaming marathons that would go on for days. This immersive roleplaying experience clearly made a lasting impact, informing his work later as a video game designer who ultimately founded his own studio with successful titles like the "rhythm shooter" Metal: Hellsinger. Listeners get a fascinating fly-on-the-wall perspective into the creative subculture at New College. We even chop it up a bit about the tunes on the jukebox in the pub in the early 90s along the way. Overall, this episode pulls back the curtain on a provocative time at New College that many alumni tiptoe around discussing. Goldfarb's reflections are candid, thoughtful, and amusing. His unique trajectory illustrates how the experimental nature of the school, for better or worse, unleashed creative potential. Listen and subscribe for more uncensored perspectives on the ever-evolving culture of New College.