Eric Lang — Designing for Payoff, Ritual Play, and Returning to Your Roots (#100)

Eric Lang — Designing for Payoff, Ritual Play, and Returning to Your Roots (#100)

Author: Justin Gary February 17, 2026 Duration: 1:23:55

About Eric Lang

Eric Lang is one of the most influential designers in modern tabletop gaming, known for bold thematic systems and highly interactive play. Over his career, he has designed or co-designed titles including Blood Rage, Rising Sun, Ankh: Gods of Egypt, Chaos in the Old World, and numerous licensed and collectible card games. His work spans hobby and mass-market audiences alike, blending deep strategic frameworks with strong narrative identity. In this episode, Eric shares how he approaches conflict-driven design, why player psychology matters more than mechanics alone, and what it takes to build games that feel both competitive and emotionally resonant. If you’re interested in designing for tension, identity, and memorable table moments, this conversation offers a masterclass from one of the industry’s most distinctive voices.



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Ever wonder how a great board game comes together, or what it takes to craft a video game that captures the world's imagination? Think Like A Game Designer pulls back the curtain on those creative mysteries. Hosted by Justin Gary, an award-winning designer and the CEO of Stone Blade Entertainment, this conversation series sits down with world-class creators from game design and other creative fields. The discussions go far beyond simple rules and mechanics, though. Justin and his guests deconstruct the entire creative process, tracing how cultural shifts, emerging technologies, and business realities shape the games we play and the stories we experience. You'll hear specific, actionable advice drawn from real projects, alongside unique perspectives on problem-solving and innovation. This isn't just a niche show for industry insiders; it's for anyone curious about how creative minds work. By listening to this podcast, you gain a toolkit for thinking more strategically and imaginatively, whether you're building a game, launching a product, or just looking to understand the artistry behind your favorite pastimes. Each episode feels like a masterclass, offering deep insights that apply far beyond the game table.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Think Like A Game Designer
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