In episode 153 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with Brent Beck, better known as Grandpa Beck, the co-founder and face of the publisher Grandpa Beck’s Games and the game designer of 3-2-1 Countdown.

Together we talk about what inspired Brent to start an independent game publishing company, the story behind the Grandpa Beck character, and how 3-2-1 Countdown evolved from an existing game concept into something fresh, accessible, and well-rounded. We also discuss his journey from airline pilot to game publisher, why it matters to design for your primary audience, and why keeping a game simple is sometimes the best design choice.

Brent shares insights into the publishing side of game design, from choosing player counts and finding the right creative collaborators to investing in conventions and building a recognizable brand through distinctive artwork and social media. We also get into the realities of entrepreneurship, the trials and tribulations of trademarks, evolving games after publication, and why running a business is a whole different “game” than working for someone else. We also chat a bit about Talk Like a Pirate Day and finding fun ways and interesting holidays to celebrate your games year-round!