Directing AAA Video Games with Brian Allgeier
From the archive · 2017-07-11
This original article or interview is preserved for reference. Product details, figures and professional roles reflect the time of publication.
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An American video game designer who is best known for his work as the lead designer and creative director on the Ratchet & Clank series developed by Insomniac Games for the PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation 4.
In 2017, he self-published the book Directing Video Games: 101 Tips for Creative Leaders. Written and illustrated by Brian, the book covers the top principles and tips for both aspiring and experienced creative directors.
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Listen to it on iTunes.
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Stream by clicking here.
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Download as an MP3 by right-clicking here and choosing “save as.”
Connect with Brian
directingvideogames.com
Twitter: @BrianAllgeier
Selected Links for the Episode
Games Mentioned:
Ratchet & Clank series
Girl with a Stick
Zelda
Edge of Nowhere
Companies Mentioned:
Naughty Dog
Sony
Insomniac
Ubisoft
People Mentioned:
Mark Cerny
Featured Show Highlights
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Learn about the distinct role of a creative director and their influence when providing structure and design support to their team.
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Brian discusses in detail how a Creative Director prepares a "Macro Plan" - which is a document that sums how all the pieces fit together and keeps the team informed of the vision and where things are going.
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Creative Directors are known for having a toolbox of ideas, such as how to solve problems using techniques familiar in both filmmaking and game design.
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Creative Director, Game Director and Project Manager work together to divide and conquer portions of the game. Teamwork is everything
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BONUS: Listen to hear a few techniques and tips during this interview about Brian's newly released book Directing Video Games: 101 Tips for Creative Leaders, Featuring 101 tips and techniques combined over his years of being a creative director.