In episode 152 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with game designer and inventor of Dodecadonuts, Andrew Davis, about his self-published title, Fantasy Food Fight.

We talk about the origin story of Dodecadonuts, Andrew’s handmade, wooden donut-shaped dice holders inspired by his longtime woodworking experience, and how this episode’s featured game began as a family project with his kids that evolved from characters to theme to mechanics. We discuss how his background in accessories, creative direction, and marketing gave him an industry foothold and shaped his approach to game design and self-publishing.

We tackle current industry trends, including what games people are choosing to buy and the move towards smaller boxes and lighter games; why game cost needs to match the experience; the value of honest feedback from fellow designers and strangers; and how learning time, playtime, and shifting player habits influence game design. Andrew also shares his insights into the convention vendor experience and what it means to show up as both a publisher and a peer.