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I love GDC, not for the conference but for the people. It’s the one time a year that I hang with my old peeps and discuss how fucked is the games industry. It’s not a “yes or no” question, but rather a “just *how* much” question.

I made a deal with Jen — I can go out every night in exchange for watching Royse in the mornings. As a result, I’m unlikely to have much time to post. I have heard about some cool new stuff, and if I get a chance I’ll post them for ya. Maybe some photos?

(Length: 100 words on the nose)

I’m doing some work with Zynga Games, helping them throw a developer bash Monday night as Jillian’s in the Metro, across from Moscone West, from 5:30 to 8:30pm. If you’re interested in casual, indie or social games, you’ll want to stop by.

(Length: 42 words)

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Oh, sweet baby Jesus, this game is pure crack. Spin the Blac Circle sounds innocent enough:

Lead a ball through a rotating maze full of deadly traps.

But don’t let its simplicity fool you. Alejandro Guillen’s little puzzle box will steal your free time, then your sleep and finally your sanity. Stay away! STAY AWAY!

(Length: 55 words)

Ian and I chatted today about a hypothesis floated between he and Jeremy Liew: if crappy games do so well on FB, think of what real games would do.

My take:

• Most of these are game-like.
• They are basically ads for themselves. They’re memes.
• Most dies fast, but a few Energizer bunnies and old women screaming, “where’s the beef!” will last for years.
• As soon as you try to monetize them through sales, you are screwed. This is beyond casual, this is inertia.

Occasionally, 100 words really sucks, so I’m cheating. Chat transcript on permalink
(Length: 100 words)

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