Richard Launius, designer of Arkham Horror, gives incredible game design advice, talks Cthulu and what makes a great Cthulu game, and goes into how to make games that create epic experiences that stand the test of time.
This episode is packed full of wisdom from a game design legend.
3 comments on “Advice, Cthulu, and How to Create an Epic Gaming Experience with Richard Launius”
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Gabe,
I’m not sure how I missed this podcast until now. As you know Arkham Horror served as my gateway game, and I’ve always been enamored with cooperative games ever since my first play. Back in 2011, I went to FFG’s Arkham Nights and had the opportunity to meet, chat with, and play Elder Sign with Richard. He’s an incredibly gracious individual and he was clearly “at home” at FFG’s event.
The interview was, as expected, outstanding, and it’s fascinating to hear about more about his background and the things he encountered during his career (who knew Hallmark had a nascent board gaming section?). Also, I can definitely relate to the fact that I’m blessed (fortunate, lucky, etc), like Richard, to have a job which pays the bills, allowing me to design games that I want to design and offer to “pro bono” service as a developer to others.
It’s such an amazing industry, with hundreds of thousands of gamers; several thousands of folks passionate about the game that they have a presence on BGG; hundreds of designers and podcasters, including reviewers; and dozens of publishers…yet, it feels very intimate. If I’m at a convention, I can talk directly to Stephen Buonocore who publishes many Stronghold Games’ titles to a Brandon from the Brawling Brothers or Gabe from Board Game Design Lab and to a person, they’re receptive and accessible.
Anyway…again, a great interview!
Cheers,
Joe
Everyone I’ve talked to who has worked with Richard says he’s just an incredible guy. It was great having him on the show, and I can’t wait to interview him again down the road.
And you’re totally right about the gaming industry. Across the board, people are kind, genuine, and willing to help. It’s a great thing to be a part of.
And thanks for adding to it like you do, Joe!
Richard mentioned a game that he might go back to that was a deck building dice/building game. I would like to see this developed soon. I have been working on a game that would have a press your luck dice/deck building element. Can’t wait to see what he comes up with. Great interview!