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Deconstructor of Fun

Deconstructor of Fun

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Deconstructor of Fun podcast is created by games professionals for games professionals. We explore the business side of the games industry with the goal of bringing listeners content that is relevant, insightful, and entertaining on a weekly basis. Hosts: Michail Katkoff @mkatkoff www.linkedin.com/in/michailkatkoff/ Eric Kress @ekress www.linkedin.com/in/erickress/ Laura Taranto @laurataranto www.linkedin.com/in/laurataranto/ Phillip Black @econosopher www.linkedin.com/in/phillip-black-econo ...
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We all want to drink from the same Cup of Justice... and it starts with learning about our legal system. With tales from the newsroom and the courtroom, co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland invite you to gain knowledge, insight, and tools to hold public agencies and officials accountable. Beginning as bonus episodes to the Murdaugh Murders Podcast with analysis of the trials of Alex Murdaugh and co-conspirators, Cup of Justice launched as its own show in January of 2023. Mandy M ...
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The one newsletter to rule them all - not really, but it is good:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe The prodigal pair of Jen and Eric return from trotting around L.A. in the Jade Inferno mobile, while Laura laments the lack of Disco Ball. Phil stacks the chips on Zenless Zone Zero’s role in MiHoYo’s portfolio. Jen gives us the 411 on Disn…
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Last week marked the ninth anniversary of Stephen Smith’s death. Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about Mandy and Liz’s latest reporting in the case and the biggest mystery that exists in the original investigation. Also on the show, Mandy is dismissed from the frivolous defamation case filed against her by a …
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Join the industry's leading weekly newsletter: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe This episode is perfect for those interested in game development while managing significant brand collaborations. Join our host Mishka Katkoff as we delve into game development and IP licensing with Peter Hansen-Chambers, co-CEO of Hutch. Peter shares his journey to…
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Join us for a Whiskey Tasting at Gamescom: https://event.appsflyer.com/gamescomwwwtasting/DOF The Californians are out and it’s two-and-a half-Europeans running the show! Instead of talking about the ongoing European Football Championship or the election results in France and the UK, the trio will dive into Nintendo’s AI avoidance, hybridcasual puz…
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Every scandal begins with a lie. But the truth will come out. And then comes the fallout and the outrage. Scandals have shaped America since its founding. From business and politics to sports and society, we look on aghast as corruption, deceit and ambition bring down heroes and celebrities, politicians and moguls. And when the dust finally settles…
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Join host Mishka Katkoff on the Deconstructor of Fun podcast as he talks with Solsten founders Joe Schaeppi and Bastian Bergmann. They discuss the latest gaming industry trends, the importance of change management, and the critical role of audience resonance. Learn how AI enhances studio efficiency, the value of a measured approach, and how Solsten…
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So much news, and so little time! The crew discusses the acquisition of Singularity 6 and how it's one of the first superfunded star-studded studios that burned all the capital raised only to be acquired at a micenut valuation. We discuss Netflix Games' latest spin on how all is great despite the head of games leaving the organization and replaceme…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — listened to Dick Harpootlian’s (ridiculously long) farewell speech in the South Carolina Senate and needless to say, they have some thoughts on it. Especially when it comes to Dick’s tone-deaf defense of his own behavior defending Alex Murdaugh. Also on the show, several lawmakers a…
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Industry's leading newsletter: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe Join host Michail Katkoff on the Deconstructor of Fun podcast as he delves into the remarkable career journey of Kieran Donovan, founder of k-ID. Explore how Kieran transitioned from a screenwriter to a lawyer and then to a successful startup founder, raising $51 million in just 9 …
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With Miska discovering the true meaning of Tinto Verano, the crew convenes to celebrate Eric’s promotion to senior consultant. Meanwhile, Jen reminds us that Rocket League isn’t a real football game, and Eric finally finds a VC investment with scale. Phil stares down Fortnite numbers while Laura reminds us Switch is the train that keeps chugging. P…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — take a look at the lawsuit filed by Buster Murdaugh against documentary filmmakers and major networks, accusing them of defamation in their Stephen Smith reporting. Eric gives a quick primer about what defamation is and what Buster is going to have to prove in the courtroom. Mandy a…
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Sensor Tower State of Gaming 2024www.sensortower.com/state-of-gaming-2024 Data.ai Mobile App Market Forecast 2030 www.data.ai/en/go/mobile-app-market-forecast/ Don't miss out on this in-depth discussion — subscribe to the Deconstructor of Fun Podcast and newsletter for more expert insights. https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe In this episo…
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They say a week without TWIG is like a beach without sand. Well, it seems like there's sand in Squad Busters' growth engine. The game had the most bombastic launch of any Supercell game and is now experiencing the fastest fall as well. The crew analyzes early numbers and potential reasons behind the rapid decline. We also talk about Netflix Games, …
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We are honored once again to welcome Laura Richards, world renowned and award-winning Criminal Behavioral Analyst, formerly of New Scotland Yard. Every week Laura profiles behaviors and identifies the red flags to prevent murders in slow motion on her groundbreaking and award winning podcast: Crime Analyst. Laura Richards and Mandy Matney discuss t…
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The Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe Klang Games out of Berlin has raised 77M over 6 funding rounds from reputable investors like Supercell, LVP, North Zone, and Makers Fund. The company was established in 2013, 11 years ago. They haven’t shipped the game they have been raising against. So they can’t hav…
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We all want to drink from the same Cup of Justice ... and it starts with learning about our legal system. With tales from the newsroom and the courtroom, co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland invite you to gain knowledge, insight, and tools to hold public agencies and officials accountable. Beginning as bonus episodes to the Murdaugh Mu…
  continue reading
 
In this week's show, the crew dives into Voodoo's acquisition of BeReal and the Sandbox's 20M convertible note. With all the events taking place the crew discusses Xbox Showcase, Ubisoft Forward, and the Summer Game Fest. With Phil out and Miska in Spain, this is the first Nordic-free episode in a year. hosts: Jennifer Donahoe, Laura Taranto, Erick…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about the latest revelations in the Mica Miller case, which they’re now referring to as the Mica FRANCIS case (in honor of Mica’s attempt before her death to shed her married name and reclaim her identity). Last week, Mica’s family announced that they are determined to make sur…
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Gerard Miles (www.linkedin.com/in/gerard-miles) is a veteran executive headhunter, who shares his extensive 15-year journey with a special focus on the gaming industry over the past decade. We explore Gerard’s founding of Mission One (www.missionone.io), a company dedicated to sourcing top-tier executives globally, and delve into the significance o…
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Join the industry's spiciest newsletter:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeWith Mishka gobbling birthday whey cakes, the crew looks at Squad Busters’ week 1 returns, and it’s not pretty. The specter of Boom Beach is starting to cast its shadow.Meanwhile, Phil talks about Destiny 2 stumbling in its last hoorah, while Laura talks about Stumb…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — are back with their analysis of former Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill’s enormous lineup of ethics charges. Last week Becky was charged with 76 violations of the state ethics code for giving herself around $10K in bonuses with Department of Social Services money along with…
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Join us for an insider tour of Voodoo’s HQ and uncover the journey to hybrid casual success with Voodoo’s Gabriel Rivaud, VP of Gaming. Gabriel Rivaud:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-rivaud-21210744/Michail Katkoffhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michailkatkoff/Sign up for our weekly newsletter. You won't regret it!https://www.deconstructoroffun.com…
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Squad Busters is released and we have more thoughts about it. Ubisoft's XDefiant hits 1M unique users, bringing Phil immense joy. Crew debates who does Fall Guys better than Fall Guys? Stumble Guys...? We'll also warm you up for the upcoming Summer Games Fest on June 7. signup to our masterful weekly newsletter:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/su…
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Cup of Justice creator Mandy Matney welcomes filmmaker Erin Lee Carr to discuss high-profile cases involving suicide, online harassment, and domestic violence. They share personal experiences and insights into the legal and ethical questions surrounding these issues, emphasizing the importance of empathy and accountability. They also debate the sho…
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Phillip Black, Michail Katkoff, and guest analyst Matthew Emery deconstruct Supercell's 6th billion Dollar franchise just before it is launched to the global audience.To read the full deconstruction, go to:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/blog/2024/5/26/squad-busters-supercell-hits-the-apex-or-spins-off-track --- Support this podcast: https://pod…
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Anime corrections, baseless speculation about Applovin, Take-Two earnings, and the GTA 6 launch date window. We speculate on the reason for Squad Busters’ massive 40M pre-registrations. Phil can’t wait to talk xDefiant. Mishka cosplays Jen and covers ad creative. All that and more on today’s TWIG your hosts: Jen Donahoe, Eric Kress, Phillip Black a…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about Chiefs Kicker Harrison Butker’s controversial convocation speech, in which he essentially told women graduates that they have been told a “diabolical lie” about pursuing an existence beyond being wives and mothers. These comments and those that support them add context to…
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Join seasoned UA and marketing consultant Matej Lančaric as he shares his decade-long journey from being an employee to running a global user acquisition consulting business. Discover his transition to solopreneurship, client management tips, and leveraging AI tools. Gain insights on balancing work, creativity, and family life alongside the importa…
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The big topic of the episode is Netflix which struck a partnership with Roblox. What does this mean to Netflix Games? Hear our hypothesis. The crew has BIG debates about Eurovision, and Tencent's role is Supercell's turnaround as well as anime. Your hosts:Jen Donahoe, Michail Katkoff, Phillip Black, and Eric Kress Segments: 00.00 Shill & Banter 09:…
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Investigative journalist Liz Farrell — and everyone’s favorite attorney Eric Bland — sit down with lawyer (and journalist!) Julie Grant, host of Court TV’s “Opening Statements,” to talk about everything from Alex Murdaugh’s lies to Bill Cosby’s very worst behavior outside the courthouse to the emotional impact of the Colucci trial postponement. The…
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In this episode of the Deconstructor of Fun podcast, host Mishka Katkoff engages with Ben Porter, NewZoo's Director of Consulting, to delve into the profound shifts within the gaming industry reflected in NewZoo's latest report. They explore a variety of pressing topics such as the industry trends post-COVID-19, console market dynamics, opportuniti…
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Players prevail with Helldivers 2 vs Sony PSN, Nintendo announces Switch 2 is coming before the end of Q125, Unity gets a new boss, Squadbusters racks up the pre-registrations, and Turkish Spyke Games goes to the Moon (Active). Hosts: Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe, Laura Taranto & Phillip Black --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod…
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Listen and watch (there are visuals!) as industry veterans Jen Donahoe, Laura Taranto and special guest Ken Landen deep dive into 'Legend of Mushroom,' the idle action mobile game that's taken players (and revenue) by storm. We'll break down the game's mechanics, exploring what made this game into the success it is today.Whether you're a seasoned p…
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For starters, Cup of Justice has a new Instagram account @COJPOD so be sure to follow for all the updates on exciting new guests, the Colucci case, and more. Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about what went down when Eric and Sandy Smith met with investigators to talk about where things stand in the Stephen Sm…
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Recently hitting the milestone of 30 years working in game design, Spry Fox Chief Creative Officer Daniel Cook has long been a leading voice in the game industry. To celebrate his long and distinguished career-spanning games like Realm of the Mad God, Triple Town, Alphabear, and Cozy Grove. MIA host Ethan Levy returns to the mic to talk to Dan abou…
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The prodigal son, Ethan Levy, makes his return to the podcast as the team discusses Newzoo’s latest PC and Console data as well as Liftoff’s 2024 Casual Gaming Apps Report. Hold tight for your weekly dose of news! Hosts: Jen Donahoe, Laura Taranto, Phillip Black & Ethan Levy --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstr…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about how to handle one of the worst kinds of disputes … having beef with your neighbors. How do you keep a fight with your neighbor from turning into an episode of “Fear Thy Neighbor”? Also on the show, what the New York Court of Appeals decision overturning Harvey Weinstein’s…
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Andrew Rose, the Chief Product Officer of Voldex, shares his journey and experiences in the Roblox game development space. Voldex, a company that acquires and scales Roblox games, has seen success by applying traditional free-to-play game development strategies in the unique ecosystem of Roblox. --- Join our newsletter:https://www.deconstructoroffu…
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Get ready for your weekly dose of unfiltered game industry news. In this episode, the crew discusses Supercell's and Dream's latest titles. We also talk about the history and future of celebrity collaborations within games. Your hosts: Jen Donahoe, Eric Kress, Laura Taranto & Phillip Black our partners: AppsFlyer, Xsolla, Heroic Labs & Data.ai --- …
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Product Deep Dives looks at Playrix's Township to deconstruct how this game went from a farming sim to a multi-billion dollar success. Join Laura Taranto and Jen Donahoe as they reap what this game has to offer! Make sure to watch with video, as we have data and insights you won't want to miss. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.c…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney and Luna Shark Producer David Moses are joined by attorney and prosecutor Mandy Powers Norrell to discuss the complexities of prosecuting the first Colucci trial and her own experiences prosecuting domestic violence cases. On this 78th special episode of Cup of Justice, we discussed effective trial strategies fo…
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In today’s mature mobile gaming market, the importance of building a brand, storytelling, and creating distinct brand identities is crucial for success. This podcast delves into the journey of revitalizing Futureplay’s Merge Gardens through an emphasis on strategic IP creation, branding improvements, and effective storytelling. Guest: Martin Mohr, …
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Who are BIG gaming funds good for? Are the AAA game studios going to extinct? And why is Fallout such a damn good show? This and many more questions were mulled by the TWIG crew. Oh, and Eric Kress is back. That means that the profanities are flying once again. Your hosts: Eric Kress, Michail Katkoff, Jen Donahoe, and Phillip Black. Our partners: X…
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Dive into the world of Istanbul's venture capital scene with Laton Venture's Görkem Türk. Together we explore essential topics like investment strategies prioritizing founding teams' quality, the evolving role of culture in startups, and future trends in gaming such as AI and socialization-focused experiences. Don't miss out on industry insights. S…
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Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about the latest breakdowns in justice system, starting with Bowen Turner, the Orangeburg, South Carolina, man whose lawyer-legislator got him a sweet (and secret) plea deal in 2023 after three girls accused him of rape. In his latest (predictable) arrest, the world FINALLY get…
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What is the impact of privacy updates on ad revenue and user acquisition strategies? In this episode, Google’s Ross Brockman and Kwalee’s John Wright discuss the need for adaptation, innovation, and the importance of leveraging first-party data for customized user experiences. The conversation reflects a balance between acknowledging challenges and…
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Buckle up kids because this episode has barely any profanity. Kress is MIA while the team talks about Brawl Stars' Baby Shark collaboration and the state of the gaming market. Phil geeks out on inflation, Mishka talks about interest rates, Jen discusses toy lines and Laura is put on the spot to cover the latest layoffs news. --- Support this podcas…
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On today's episode Co-hosts Eric Bland and Mandy Matney got to interview one of our favorite guests so far on this show… Vinnie Politan of Court TV. Politan is an Emmy winning journalists AND a former prosecutor who combines his journalistic talents with his legal knowledge to cover some of the craziest cases in the American court system. We have a…
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Eric Kress sits down with Matt Wyble, COO of Second Dinner, to talk about Marvel Snap and what's next for Second Dinner. What does a studio do with $100M in the bank? The two spend some time talking about the state of Blizzard and the state of the industry. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deconstructoroffun/support…
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The rowdy crew is back at it talking about Lilith's decision to skip soft launch, Embracer's selling of Gear Box, and the New York Times move into gaming. We also talk about Discord's ad business. Because when in doubt do advertising. Hosts: Michail Katkoff, Jen Donahoe, Eric Kress and Phillip Black--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spoti…
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