Edmund has the best analogy for why AAA games suck and what parenting taught him about how to make games better.
FULL INTERVIEW
Watch: https://youtu.be/EWVsMAVhy38?si=8dQEyaeoTSDrtdGF
Listen: https://www.theexaminedgame.com/why-you-shouldnt-give-players-what-they-want-edmund-mcmillen-the-binding-of-isaac-mewgenics/
Today I'm talking with indie game designer Edmund McMillen (The Binding of Isaac, Mewgenics, Super Meat Boy) about the way he approaches making games. Edmund has a pretty simple philosophy when it comes to game design, even if the games themselves are extremely complex and multilayered. He designs games to please himself, and so far that's worked remarkably well as a business model because it turns out there are millions of other players who want to play the kinds of games he wants to make.
We discuss everything from the twisted idea behind Mewgenics, the resurgence in popularity of The Binding of Isaac, and what he's learned about the mindset of players. We also talk about why you'd lose your mind trying to please everyone, and the importance of understanding what players are really asking for when they give feedback on his games.