Ever feel like your toy or game idea is too niche or catch yourself wondering if you’ve really got what it takes to break into the industry? Maybe you’ve been sitting on a killer concept, or you’re already knee-deep in prototypes and second guesses.

In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m chatting with TCA alum and current Accelerator student Manish Punwani, who proves that with the right guidance and a whole lot of passion, even the most unexpected game themes can find their place in the market. Manish shares his journey from working in merchandising to launching Cricket or Nothing, a suspense-filled, strategy card game that turns the classic sport of cricket into a brainy, poker-like duel. 

You’ll hear why he walked away from his first concept and instead went all in on cricket. We talk about what it really takes to prepare for a Kickstarter campaign and how you can start laying the groundwork now. You’ll also hear why tapping into passionate cultural communities is a genius launch, and how TCA coaching helped Manish see both his idea and his audience in a brand new light.

This episode gives you a glimpse of what it really looks like to build a game from the ground up while learning, pivoting, and connecting with the right people along the way.

If you want to be a part of Toy Creators Academy and get the opportunity to join the Accelerator as a graduate, visit toycreatorsacademy.com today.

Listen for these Important Moments!

• [00:06:08] - Find out why Manish scrapped his original game concept and how trusting feedback can lead to a better product fit.
• [00:11:11] - Discover how this game turns cricket into a mind-game-packed, poker-style showdown that grabs attention even from non-cricket fans.
• [00:09:19] - Hear how Manish realized licensing wasn’t the only option and why launching it himself became the smarter move.
• [00:20:19] - Learn why marketing to fans who already love your theme (like cricket) is the fastest way to build a loyal audience.
• [00:27:06] - Get practical tips on how to use low-cost ads and landing pages to grow a ready-to-buy audience for your launch.

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About My NEW Podcast Art:
The podcast art for Season 6 of Making It In The Toy Industry features product illustrations of toys and games I helped guide in Toy Creators Academy and TCA Accelerator. Tap the brand name below to check them out!

Playcor by Courtney Smithee
9 to 5 Warriors by Brandon Braswell
Catoms by Kieche O'Connell
The Lunch Room by EAP Toys and Games founder, Chrissy Fagerholt