Unleashing Creativity and Accessibility in Game Design with Dan

Greg, sits down with Daniel McCreadie, a senior game designer at Outright Games, to discuss the intricacies of creating games that resonate with children and families. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Dan shares his journey from a child gamer to a leading figure in the gaming industry, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and user experience in game design.

Episode Highlights:

• Dan's Early Gaming Memories: Dan reminisces about his childhood experiences with the Nintendo Entertainment System and how games like Super Mario Bros 3 sparked his curiosity and passion for gaming.
• Path to Game Design: Learn how a conversation in college led Dan to become a game tester, which eventually paved the way for his career in game design.
• Role of a Game Designer at Outright Games: Dan explains his role in developing games from concept to release, focusing on creating engaging experiences for preschool-aged children.
• Skill Sets for Game Design: Discover the importance of being a generalist designer with a lens on user experience and accessibility, and why empathy for the player is crucial.
• Transitioning to Children's Games: Dan discusses the shift from wanting to create the next big hit to designing games that bring joy to children, and how his own experiences as a father influence his work.
• The Importance of Playtesting: Insights into how observing children play games can lead to valuable design decisions that enhance the gaming experience.
• Staying Current with Gaming Trends: Dan shares his approach to keeping up with the latest technologies and trends in the gaming industry.
• Advice for Aspiring Game Designers: Tips on how to break into the industry, the importance of staying positive, and why it's never too late to pursue a career in game design.