EP 40 | From solo dev to studio lead with Archangel Softworks

Mike from Archangel Softworks joins Marina Ryan to talk about his game development journey and upcoming title, Highway Noir.

They delve into what it’s like going from a solo developer to leading a team, managing complexity on larger-scale projects, the importance of prototyping, cohesive art direction, self-doubt, and much more.

Grab a coffee, and join us for a chat!

* * * * * * *

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:03:15) How Mike got into game development

(00:07:00) Mike’s upcoming game, Highway Noir

(00:13:10) Being a solo dev vs. being the captain of the freelance ship

(00:18:13) Managing responsibilities: coding, admin, art, marketing, music, and more

(00:23:15) Party selection: how hiring decisions are made

(00:27:48) Art direction and artistic cohesion

(00:33:15) Prototyping and practice: how experimentation and learning

(00:38:30) What has been the most challenging thing about working on highway Noir

(00:43:50) What has been the most fun?

(00:45:50) You’re sitting on the precipice of release, how are you feeling?

(00:47:58) What advice would Mike give his younger self?

(00:50:00) Outro

* * * * * * *

FOLLOW US

Mike’s socials: https://bsky.app/profile/archangelsoftworks.co.uk

Highway Noir Steam page: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3317730/Highway_Noir/

Marina’s socials: ⁠https://linktr.ee/marinaryan⁠

Live Show on Twitch: ⁠https://twitch.tv/marinahascoffeeQuest Markers: ⁠https://linktr.ee/questmarkers⁠

Music by Marina Ryan

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