The Last Day

Well, Ray's week at Gearbox is at a close now - he's lived the dream and gotten to see the inside of a game development company from the top down, something many aspiring game developers could only wish for. Along the way, he's met talented team members, sat in on design meetings, witnessed important decisions and the day-to-day management of Gearbox. I asked him to write a final blog to sum up his experiences - oh and don't forget to check out his forums thread for Q&A!

Ray's Blog: The Last Day

This has been a memorable week. It has been a grueling marathon of stress caused by individual excitement and day to day activities. There is much to be thankful for.

First, I thank Randy Pitchford for extending this unprecedented opportunity to me. He has been exceptionally gracious. When I am eighty years old, sitting on my rocking chair playing a game of Brothers in Arms 51, I will think, "Man, that Randy was one cool cat." Second, I thank the people of Gearbox for their humor and patience throughout, and for opening up their world to me. They have been a real blast to be around as I have peered over their shoulders and listened intently to their conversations. Third, but not at all least, I wish to thank the community of fans of Gearbox for bearing with me as I have struggled through this week. You have been a great bunch by accepting me and helping me along.

I take away from here an experience that will last a lifetime. The insight that Randy has shared with me is priceless. Whether it is how to build a game that is relevant, what books I should be reading, how to deal with business issues such as planning and relationships, how to treat employees, how to develop skills that carry weight, how to develop those skills serially or in parallel, and many other gems of knowledge, the man has given me a crash course on what really matters about what I want to do in the game industry.

The Week Ends

We're all glad that Ray had such an eye-opening experience at Gearbox this week, and hope that you all learned something about the industry as well! Thanks for joining us this week!