Electric Hat Games
Lead Game Designer / Co Founder
Specs:
Company Name: Electric Hat Games
Location: Austin, TX, USA
Studio Size: 2 Developers + 4 Contractors
Platforms: PS4, PC
Time Frame: 09/2016 - …
Published Games: TO THE TOP, Unannounced
Launching Electric Hat Games with Dan Dunham was the result of our shared passion for games and a desire to make our mark on the industry. We founded the studio with the vision of creating distinctive, compelling games that could not only entertain but also challenge the conventions of gameplay. This adventurous spirit was embodied in our maiden project, TO THE TOP which went on to become a top-selling game on both Steam and PlayStation VR.
At the heart of our studio was a commitment to ingenuity and creativity. We built a lean, efficient team that valued open collaboration and innovation, allowing us to adapt quickly and experiment freely with new ideas. Our approach paid off when our debut game became an unexpected hit. Not only did it achieve impressive sales, but it was lauded for its unique blend of new mechanics and classic level design that effectively leveraged the VR platform to provide an immersive gaming experience.
Being both a designer and an entrepreneur brought its own set of challenges, from managing the complexities of game development to navigating the intricacies of publishing and marketing. Yet, this dual role also provided a unique perspective on the industry. It was incredibly satisfying to see a concept evolve from an idea to a fully realized game, and even more so to see that game be embraced by players around the world.
One of the key successes of Electric Hat Games was our ability to understand and leverage the potential of emerging platforms. Our focus on VR wasn't just a technological decision, but a design one as well. We believed that VR offered new possibilities for interaction and immersion, and we wanted our games to reflect that. The success of our VR game on both Steam and PlayStation VR validated our approach.
In essence, starting Electric Hat Games was a period of intense learning, creativity, and achievement. Our journey was one marked by challenges and triumphs, with each step enhancing our capabilities as designers and deepening our understanding of the industry.