Episode 37 of openindie is a treat for 2D Platformer fans! iV sits down with professional Graphic Designer gone Indie Game Developer Shphrd from Creative Waste Studio to talk about the ups and downs of solo game development.

After a decade in graphic design, Shphrd is now tackling his biggest creative challenge yet: making a cosmic horror-inspired pixel art platformer, "The Old One." Expect stories about an old wizard with bad knees who gets around using a clever teleportation mechanic, the rollercoaster that is Kickstarter, and the daily chaos of being a solo dev. Shphrd shares his passion for creating a 2D adventure, balancing deep combat with eerie atmosphere—all while keeping his sanity intact.

If you're into indie games, game development, or just enjoy hearing people talk about things they love, this episode has something for you.

Episode Timestamps:

Intro (00:00)

The Current State of The Old One (01:24)

What is The Old One? (04:35)

Inspirations for the Game (07:02)

Shphrd's Favorite Feature & Feedback (08:59)

It's not a Bug, it's a Feature! (13:15)

When will we get a Demo? (15:10)

Why Did Shphrd Want to Become an Indie Dev? (16:36)

Magic Moment as a Game Developer (18:18)

The Best Part of Developing Your Own Game... (23:58)

...And the Most Challenging Part (26:11)

Lessons Learned for the Kickstarter Re-Launch (28:46)

Story Behind the Name "Creative Waste Studio" (32:29)

Indie Games Community (34:50)

If You Are Looking for a Talented Designer, This Chapter Is for You (35:49)

Shphrd's Vision for His Game (37:15)

Advice for Fellow Game Devs (39:56)

Outro (41:58)

As always, have fun listening!

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