Episode 41 of Buona La Prima is out, and this time we went straight into the fire.

Not the PR version. Not the “synergies and opportunities” brochure. The real story.

We break down three uncomfortable angles everyone is tiptoeing around:

1️⃣ Netflix’s subscription model vs the brutal economics of AAA

You can’t run blockbuster game development like a content treadmill. Someone will get hurt.

2️⃣ The truth about gaming subscriptions

It’s a $11B slice in a $190B market. Growing, yes — but is there really room for another big player?

3️⃣ The impact on people

With the industry already facing 16,000+ layoffs, adding a mega-deal promising billions in “synergies” won’t calm the waters.

It’s a huge move with massive implications: for studios, workers, IP, and the future direction of gaming as a whole.

Sony cambia tutto. Dopo anni di difesa strenua delle esclusive, l’azienda giapponese ha ufficialmente confermato che porterà i suoi titoli di punta anche su altre piattaforme. Ma cosa significa veramente?Nel nuovo episodio di Buona la Prima, ne discutiamo soprattutto con Sergio, veterano con 30 anni di esperienza nel game development, per capire:-Quali sono i titoli coinvolti?-Si tratta solo di PC o anche Xbox e Switch?-Cosa significa a livello tecnico (engine, salvataggi, crossplay)?-Quali sono le motivazioni economiche dietro questa apertura?-È davvero la fine della guerra delle esclusive o solo una mossa tattica?Un episodio denso, ma anche ironico, in cui proviamo a capire se questa è una svolta storica o solo marketing ben confezionato.🎧 Ascoltateci e fateci sapere la vostra nei commenti!

In questo episodio di Buona La Prima parliamo del caso Horses, l’horror psicologico dello studio italiano Santa Ragione bannato da Steam senza una singola spiegazione.
Una decisione che rischia di far saltare l’intero lancio del gioco e forse la sopravvivenza dello studio.

La domanda è semplice e scomoda: quanto è sano un mercato PC dove un solo attore può decidere il destino di un progetto, senza alcuna trasparenza?
Soprattutto quando altre piattaforme — Epic, GOG, Itch e Humble — hanno approvato il titolo senza problemi, e quando il gioco ha ottenuto regolarmente PEGI ed ESRB.

Nell’episodio analizziamo:

• la storia dietro il ban di Steam,

• l’impatto dei “monopoli di fatto” sul mercato indie,

• cosa succede quando la creatività sbatte contro muri invisibili,

• e cosa questa vicenda dice sul futuro delle piattaforme digitali.

Un episodio che fa arrabbiare, riflettere e discutere.
Se vi interessa capire come funziona davvero l’ecosistema del PC gaming… questo è per voi.

Explore the groundbreaking collaboration between Unity and Epic Games, as they join forces to enhance interoperability and redefine the gaming landscape. Discover how this partnership opens new opportunities for developers and reshapes market dynamics. #Unity #EpicGames #GamingInnovation

🎤 Ever felt overwhelmed by the self-publishing landscape? 🤔

You're not alone! In our latest episode, we discuss the common fears and pressures that creators face.

Learn why finding the right audience can feel like a daunting task. What’s your experience with publishing? Share below!

#Podcast #IndieDev #SelfPublishing #CreativeJourney #GameDesign #Visibility #AudienceBuilding #GamingIndustry #CommunitySupport

Sony cambia tutto. Dopo anni di difesa strenua delle esclusive, l’azienda giapponese ha ufficialmente confermato che porterà i suoi titoli di punta anche su altre piattaforme. Ma cosa significa veramente?

Nel nuovo episodio di Buona la Prima, ne discutiamo con Sergio, veterano con 30 anni di esperienza nel game development, per capire:

• Quali sono i titoli coinvolti?

• Si tratta solo di PC o anche Xbox e Switch?

• Cosa significa a livello tecnico (engine, salvataggi, crossplay)?

• Quali sono le motivazioni economiche dietro questa apertura?

• È davvero la fine della guerra delle esclusive o solo una mossa tattica?

Un episodio denso, ma anche ironico, in cui proviamo a capire se questa è una svolta storica o solo marketing ben confezionato.
🎧 Ascoltateci e fateci sapere la vostra nei commenti!

Join us in this fascinating episode as we sit down with Celia Hodent, cognitive scientist, UX expert, and former UX Director at Epic Games, to explore the psychology behind video games. Known for her groundbreaking work on Fortnite and her insights into the human brain, Celia shares her journey from academia to the gaming industry and how cognitive science shapes game design.

In this episode of My Name is Mario!, we dive into the heated debate surrounding AI’s role in video game localization with two industry experts:

Together, we tackle bold claims made by AI localization companies, such as delivering "human-level" quality. Our conversation explores:

Belén and Diana bring unique perspectives from their respective LSPs, both deeply committed to the craft of high-quality, culturally sensitive localization. Whether you're a developer, a translator, or just curious about the intersection of AI and gaming, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at where we are—and where we're headed.

💬 What do you think? Can AI truly replace human creativity and nuance in localization? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

📢 Learn more about our guests and their companies:

#Localization #AIvsHuman #VideoGameIndustry #TerraTranslations #NativePrime #GamingLocalization #MyNameIsMarioPodcast

Breaking Barriers with AI Localization: Meet Mikolaj Marcisz | My Name is Mario! 🎙️

In this episode of My Name is Mario!, I sit down with Mikolaj Marcisz, founder and CEO of Vavel Games and Uncanny AI, to discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming video game localization. Born in Chicago and raised in Poland, Mikolaj's journey from gamer to game creator is as unique as it is inspiring.

We explore:

🌍 Curious about Uncanny? Check it out here: Uncanny AI

This episode dives into the fascinating intersection of AI, gaming, and creativity, with plenty of thought-provoking moments about the evolving role of technology in storytelling.

💬 Don’t miss this insightful and engaging conversation with a true innovator!

💡 Enjoyed the episode? Hit the like button, subscribe for more, and leave your thoughts in the comments below!

#MyNameIsMario #MikolajMarcisz #UncannyAI #GameLocalization #VideoGameIndustry #Podcast #AIandGaming #Innovation

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Cyril Barrow, a seasoned leader in the gaming industry and the founder of Village Studio Games. Originally from France, Cyril has lived in Finland for nearly 20 years and brings a wealth of knowledge from his diverse career, which spans aircraft engineering, factory management, and leadership roles in some of the most renowned game studios. 🚀 Key Topics Covered: Cyril’s journey from engineering to the gaming industry and his work with major companies like Digital Chocolate, Rovio, and Electronic Arts. Founding Village Studio Games and exploring blockchain's potential in gaming. Balancing family life with a fast-paced career in gaming, and how his hobbies—collecting vintage Finnish design, running marathons, and restoring items—keep him grounded. Transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Cyril also shares personal stories about his family, life in Finland, and his passion for design and running. This episode is packed with insights on the gaming industry, leadership, and the importance of maintaining balance in life.