Mastering the Long Game: Persistence and Consistency in Video Game Development

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Are you ready to challenge the myths of immediate success and explore the untold virtues of persistence and consistency in the demanding world of video game development? Strap in as we debunk the illusion of instant triumphs and shine a light on the true essence of enduring excellence. We delve into captivating narratives of unyielding creators, such as the developers of Among Us, who braved through obscurity and challenges with unwavering faith in their creation. We delve not only into the power of resilience, but also the art of delayed gratification that shapes the intricate world of game development.

As we journey deeper, we equip you with practical tips and strategies designed for both budding and seasoned developers. From setting long-term goals to celebrating minor victories and fostering a culture of lifelong learning, we tackle it all. We emphasize the significance of building a supportive network and maintaining a healthy balance between personal well-being and professional demands. In a realm filled with emotional roller coasters and financial risks, we remind you that it's not just about creating exceptional games, but also carving out your niche in the annals of gaming history. Join us as we unfold the secrets to mastering the long game in the dynamic universe of video game development.

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Episode Transcript

Speaker 1 (00:20):
Hey there, press starters and welcome to the
press start leadership podcast,the podcast about game changing
leadership, teaching you how toget the most out of your product
and development team and becomethe leader you were meant to be
leadership coaching andtraining for the international
game industry professional.

(00:40):
Now let me introduce you toyour host, the man, the myth,
the legend, christopher Mifsud.

Speaker 2 (00:50):
Hey there, press starters and welcome back to
another awesome edition of thepress start leadership podcast.
In today's episode, we'reexploring a crucial aspect,
often overshadowed by the allureof instant success the power of
persistence and consistency incrafting legendary games.
Let's unravel why mastering thelong game is essential in the

(01:11):
world of video gaming, whereshortcuts are merely an illusion
.
In our current era, where viralsensations and instant
gratification often steal thespotlight, it's easy to overlook
the timeless virtues ofpersistence and consistency.
However, in the ever-evolvingand demanding realm of video

(01:32):
game development, these virtuesare more than just beneficial
they are essential.
Contrary to the glamoroushighlight reels that flood our
social media feeds, the truepath to achievement in game
development is rarely astraightforward journey of
uninterrupted successes.
More often, it's a winding pathfilled with setbacks and

(01:53):
valuable learnings, and asteadfast determination.
Today, we're delving deep inthe why.
In the world of video games,there truly are no shortcuts to
long lasting success.
Let's talk about persistence.
It's that unwavering commitmentto a goal or vision, the kind
of grit that keeps you movingforward when others might choose

(02:15):
to step back.
It's about embracing failurenot as a dreaded outcome but as
a stepping stone, a teacher thatoffers insights, refined
strategies and builds resilience.
Think about the creators ofAmong Us.
Before their game skyrocketedto fame, they faced years of
obscurity, refining andbelieving in their creation.
And then there's the power ofdelayed gratification.

(02:38):
Remember the StanfordMarshmallow test from the 60s?
It showed us the link betweendelaying gratification and
subsequent success.
In the game industry, this is adaily reality where long
development cycles test thepatients and resolve the
developers at every step.
Moving on to consistency, theunsung hero, it's that

(03:00):
disciplined regularity ofactions, regardless of how
motivated you feel.
It's about showing up day afterday, even when the initial
excitement has faded.
Consistency is foundational inhabit formation and, for game
developers, translates intodaily efforts in coding,
designing and testing, leadingto mastery and eventual success.

(03:21):
Author Darren Hardy talks aboutthe compound effect, the
principle of reaping significantrewards from a series of small,
smart choices In gamedevelopment.
It's those consistent everydayefforts that cumulatively create
a polished and successful game.
Now let's address the elephantin the room the video game

(03:44):
industry's demanding nature.
Projects span years, requiringsynchronized effort from large
teams.
That final 10% of gamedevelopment, often as time
consuming as the initial 90%, isall about polishing and
refining, demanding the highestlevels of persistence and
consistency.
The industry is also rapidlyevolving, which means developers

(04:06):
must continually adapt andupscale.
Shortcuts here can render adeveloper or even a game
obsolete in the blink of an eye.
And in today's creditmarketplace, standing out
requires more than just a uniqueidea.
It demands the persistence toperfect it and the consistency
to mark it and update iteffectively.
But what does this mean toaspiring game developers and

(04:30):
industry veterans?
Here are some actionablestrategies 1.
Sit clear long term goals.
Knowing your direction iscrucial for staying motivated,
especially during challengingtimes.
2.
Celebrate small wins.
Acknowledging milestones fuelsthe journey, any motivation and
a sense of progress.

(04:50):
3.
Embrace lifelong learning.
The gaming landscape is alwayschanging and staying ahead means
dedicating time to continuouslearning and skill building.
4.
Build a support network.
Surround yourself with peoplewho encourage you, share
learnings and provide diverseperspectives.

(05:10):
The gaming industry is a realmof emotional roller coasters,
financial risks and infamouscrunch times.
It's not just about thetechnical challenges, but also
about managing emotionalinvestments, maintaining
persistence during tough timesand balancing consistent effort
with personal well-being.
Leading a team in this industrygoes beyond managing timelines

(05:32):
and budgets.
It's about embodying the valuesof persistence and consistency
and inspiring the same in yourteam.
It's setting the rightexpectations, fostering a
culture of consistency and beingthe anchor during tumultuous
times.
The rewards, however, aremanifold Building a legacy,
experiencing immense personalgrowth and establishing industry

(05:53):
credibility are just a few ofthe accolades waiting at the end
of this long, arduous journeyTo wrap up.
The path to success in thedynamic and competitive world of
video gaming is paved withchallenges, but it's these very
challenges that craftmasterpieces and legends.
The stories we adore in thegames we cherish are born from
relentless persistence andunyielding consistency.

(06:15):
As we conclude today's episode,let's remember whether you're
an aspiring developer or aseasoned industry veteran, the
core values of hard work,dedication and commitment remain
timeless.
By embracing persistence andconsistency, You're not just
crafting remarkable games,you're carving out your niche in
the annals of gaming history.

(06:36):
Thank you for joining me ontoday's journey into the heart
of game development.
Remember, the road might betumultuous, but the destination,
with its blend of achievementand fulfillment, is worth every
hurdle.
Until next time, keep pushingbatteries, stay consistent and
continue to press.
Start on your journey togreatness.
Alright, and that's this week'sepisode of Press Star

(06:59):
Leadership Podcast.
Thanks for listening and, asalways, thanks for being awesome
.