What really goes into making a great game?

In this episode of Wired Nerdy, we sit down with Benson Russell, a veteran game designer with over 30 years in the industry and credits that include Uncharted 3, The Last of Us, and Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare. From the early days of breaking into a scrappy industry to shaping some of the most iconic modern AAA titles, Benson shares the real story behind game development.

We go beyond surface-level talk and dive into:

• How Benson got his start in game development

• The biggest lessons from 30+ years designing games

• What players don’t see behind AAA development

• Why modern games are so complex to build

• The truth about updates, delays, and shipping games

• Game-to-film adaptations, what works and what fails

• Fixing “development dysfunction” inside studios

• AI’s real impact on the future of gaming

• What excites (and concerns) him about where games are headed

If you love games, game design, or want to understand how the industry really works, this conversation gives you an insider’s perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.

About Benson Russell

https://www.unhandledexceptions.io/

Benson Russell is a veteran game designer and founder of Unhandled Exceptions, where he helps studios solve development challenges and ship better games. Over his career, he has contributed to some of the most influential AAA titles in modern gaming.

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In this episode of the Wired Nerdy Podcast, hosts Pixelhavok and Glockified dive into the latest in gaming and technology. They discuss the impact of AI on RAM prices, the future of gaming consoles, and the challenges of balancing work and gaming. The duo also shares insights on the Unreal Engine’s role in Hollywood and the benefits of using Mac for productivity. Join them for a deep dive into the world of tech and gaming, with a focus on quality over quantity as they kick off season four.

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https://www.instagram.com/wirednerdypodcast
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Also, check out the Wired Nerdy Website and Merch Store:

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The Game Genie wasn’t just a cheat device. It was a revolution. This short documentary uncovers the wild story behind the accessory that let players bend their NES and Genesis games to their will. From the tech that made the magic happen, to heated courtroom battles, to the cultural impact it left behind, we cover it all.If you love retro gaming, hidden history, or just want to know why this little gold cartridge caused such a stir, hit play.