Thanks so much for watchin guys, and all your kind words! ► Get my 2D game kit, free: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-2D-game-kit ► Learn how to become a full time game dev, free: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-how-to-make-six-figures ► Enroll in my 3D workshop, free!: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-15-minute-3D-game ► Make your game instantly beautiful with my free workbook: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-instant-beauty-color-workbook ► Join my 2D character workshop, free: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-2d-character-art-workshop ► Wishlist Twisted Tower: store.steampowered.com/app/1575990/Twisted_Tower/ ► Learn how to make money as a TH-camr: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-indie-game-income-workshop
I saw real paranormal phenomena , hell is another dimension , is not empty the elite serve them , Jesus is the truth , I research real satanic books , was an atheist , big mistake , it risk my soul , now I try to save others.
Reason 1, in my experience, is a symptom of being shut in all day, everyday with barely any human contact that aren't my gf or my family. I need to see people outside. Interact with them. Theatre and acting really help me find my balance. When I do an entire week of homeoffice, I really feel like an outsider of humanity. EDIT: also, therapy helps me. Especially with impostor syndrome.
When you’re learning, giving up on projects is good. Fail fast and fail often is what they say. However, when you are making a commercial game to support your family, scraping a project that is 90% complete is about the worse decision you can make. Sometimes you just need to get out of your own head. Father has looked amazing from the start! And honestly, I think it looks way more interesting than the dog game. Glad you took a much needed break and are ready to get back in there!
After seeing Father for the first time I was feeling so proud for Thomas. I could not believe how great it was and that an indie game dev could make such game in such short time!!! It's a whole new level. Thomas stories are always super cool and deep. His graphics are always very ambient and beautiful. And now it's all in 3D and in much larger scale!! Thomas keep on going with it. I believe you are the future of Game Dev industry. Please believe in yourself because we do and we want to see you succeed again and then again. And also let some of us follow your path :))
Thank goodness you didn't actually cancel. I love what Father is trying to be. So excited for you and the team! Glad you found a solution to the anxiety. God bless you, man.
There's an important lesson here about how burnout even happens when we work on things we love. Thank you for sharing Thomas, your videos are always so down-to-earth and inspirational!
I really need one of those gummies... My Game Dev journey is riddled by insecurities. Everytime I work I realize how far I've come, but also how far I have to go and I'm constantly overwhelmed. I really appreciate you sharing your experiences. Hopefully, I'll find the courage and determination to see my project through to delivery.
So excited for you! You've been a huge inspiration to me as I've toyed with the idea of getting into game development for the last couple years (not very successfully because of dealing with my own doubts and limitations). Thanks for being vulnerable (and for this exciting news about Father!). Hang in there and take care!
Honestly man, this level or realism is why I followed you in the first place. Seeing successful devs go through the same things I've been battling with helps me not to feel so alone. And seeing another Christian struggle with self-doubt and the chosen direction for their game in the same way that I do, also is incredible. I think you're doing good stuff man. And I'm glad you've picked Father back up. But even if you decided to shelf the project forever, I know whatever you make is gonna be solid. Stay grounded, find time for rest, find time for the Word, and keep your chin up. :)
We are blessed with tons of content from you lately! It’s important to build the game that YOU want to play. “Age of Irata” is my passion project. It won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but I hope that if we continue putting our all into it, it will reach those people like me that are looking for more retro styled Metroidvania’s 😁. Thank you for sharing your story, my friend 😁🍻
Thank you so much for not dropping the game! You and the beautiful things you make are such an inspiration to me and to many others. I'm so excited to see you pull through! :)
The hours i spent watching ur dev father videos and the good times I had and also fixed few bugs with others really made me sad if this game was not gonna be published. I really am relieved that its not over! i love the atmosphere of this game and the gameplay art etc
Thanks again Thomas for showing behind the scenes of challenges in development. Glad you decided to get Father back on the menu. You showing vids like this makes me feel like its ok to seek help. I've been going to counseling for years, and i didn't realize until recently that it helps alot to talk about my struggles in development. Its unfortunate that we as the individual that is making sone turns out to be our worst critic. My wife however has helped me overcome being critical of my work. Hang in there Thomas thanks for showing you have the same struggles we do, and don't stop seeking help when you need it, we all need help.
I'm not someone who really keeps up with your videos, but when you first showed gameplay of Father it looked absolutely stunning. Your game looks great and you should feel proud to have achieved so much, best wishes!
I've had Father wishlisted forever! Been stoked for Father since you first started working on it. Cannot wait to play it. SO happy you didn't give up on it.
I had no idea you had that backstory, you don't really seem to feel out of place, you don't show it. I think it's these kinds of videos that motivate many indie developers, including me, to continue with those damn projects that seem like they'll never end, full of bugs, but that in the end will give you enormous satisfaction. Thanks for that.
I have found that it's good to take breaks from longer projects as longer you work on it the heavier the burden. Once you take a break the mind drifts away from that almost completely because that is what it needs. But at some point it usually can come up at back of your head and feel fresh again to continue ^^
Absolutely friggen wonderful video! Thanks for sharing your story in such a well produced way. I've recently started my game dev journey and knowing that even for someone as well established as you can succumb to doubts helps me realize that we're all susceptible to too much "head soup" (overthinking). Keep on keepin' on! You and your team rock, man :D
Thomas, it's one of the most touching, moving, humbling and at the same time hillarious videos you posted! Kudos! The cut with you naked or Alien section is pure gold :) With you all the best on your path!
@Thomas Brush I'm really glad you came back to this, because when I first saw the trailer I thought it was FREAKING AWESOME!! I also recently returned to a project I'd shelved for a few months, and it's really coming along well, promising to be my first actual release! Solidarity bro.
Thank you for sharing this, sincerely. I never would have suspected you to deal with these struggles based on your online persona, which is the beauty of you sharing so candidly. I've been following Father's development and could not be more excited and intrigued. So happy to see it's continuing, and more so, that you're happy to be making it again. Congrats to you and the team!
I’ll admit, you had me in the first half 😂 So glad you aren’t done with the game it looks way too awesome! Also the publishers are 100% right all the creepy plot about twisted religion is exactly why I would want to play the game.
Not going to lie you got me at the beginning! What a roller coaster of feelings when I've been watching it being built for so long. So I can't wait to play it
Glad you found your direction back to the project, while I think a lot of us can emphasize with the struggles you had, I think it's common for most people to doubt themselves and their projects at some point, it's good to hear that you found a way to overcome this period. I also think it would have been a shame, and not a great financial decision, to bury the project. I also really appreciate the honesty here! What you said at the end - just people asking about what you make and be interested in it - that gives me a ton of motivation too and some feeling of what I work on has a worth to others too.
Glad you took the time you needed, and also glad you came back to Father! Watching so much of the livestreams, it’s apparent that this game has your heart and soul in it and that is what makes it unique and likeable, even if that means it isn’t for everyone - no game with this kind of thematic depth should be for everyone in my opinion
Glad you published this video and Im glad your continuing to work on Father. I think a lot of people can relate in one way or another to you experience, especially the imposter syndrome.
Glad to hear all that work you put into your Father game will eventually lead to a finished product. Don't give up. It happens to all of us that we slowly dive into a pit of despair with our work and the fix is to step away for a break before coming back in. I still have this problem with my programming project but with my day-job, I take breaks throughout and don't ever fall into the pit of despair.
Hey I'm glad you were able to get back on track with your game, it looks incredible! A good friend and I just started meeting weekly to work on our game-goals, and I bought your 3D/2D courses. I have pretty bad ADHD and it's taken forever to try and start something, (in my thirties) but am hopeful of sharing my progress at some point. You are a voice of inspiration for us new comers, and I'm sure I speak for many when I say your honesty is truly unique and appreciated. We all have rough patches, but it's being able to reflect on them with an open mind that allows us to grow from them. 😊
It's funny how the things that may seem weird or unmarketable are what help it stand out. When you listed all those things my gut reaction was "This sounds amazing! And refreshing!"
I’m glad that you are sharing both sides of game dev. I thought only small devs or beginners feel this way. Thanks for sharing the other side of your journey too.
I know the feeling man. I wish you the best bud been following you for quite some time now and I'm really glad you're so open about this type of things.
I have been so excited for this game and have been following your progress from the beginning. Im glad you are revisiting this it looks badass and I cant wait to play it when it comes out!
After working in retail close to 10 years and only just discovering my passion for game development I've just got to say that channels like yours are very reassuring and great to see thanks for the content!
I work for a AAA studio - we have a 3 week long break in the winter and a 1-week break in the summer. It helps to get away from the project for a bit and clear your head. It's the only way to keep your creativity and confidence in the game
Brilliant game, great man, i always knew there was a reason why i was drawn to your videos... im a 33 year old new daughter dad and you inspired me to start a game development studio. you are awesome i cant wait to play the game, and i cant wait to show you mine!
Yaaaay! This sounds so fun and amazing. Like Neversong, I’ll continue to follow development and play this game once it comes out! And while I’m waiting, this has inspired me to get back to the video game making course I got from you. A little bit ago, I got a new job and I started school back up and I thought I wouldn’t have time or energy to continue learning how to make games. For a while I think that was true, all the changes and adjustments meant that I would work, commute home, do my schooling, take care of my dog, then pass out. Now, though, I’m starting to adjust, and with that adjustment I’m realizing that actually, learning how to make games is fun! I liked doing it before, and I feel it’ll help more than hurt to keep doing it now, even though I have considerably less time. I hope one day to release my own game. I have so many visions, and you are a constant inspiration!
Thanks for sharing your struggle, man! It's really inspiring cause I'm in a similar situation, though I have a dog plus a cat to take care of :) I will continue to struggle through this, finding time to learn and create my voxel art after my day job. Wish you all the best in your endeavors!
This is amazing man. So glad you were able to step back and feel like yourself again 🙌 you’ve been an INCREDIBLE source of inspiration to me through both your highs, and your lows. 💪
This hits me hard. I am in the same state of mind with my current development (mostly from scope creep overload) Anxiety creeps along with it all and the nagging imposter syndrome since this is the first game I am trying to publish solo... I know you have talked about this in past videos as well but thanks for bringing up the discussion again, it helps to keep moving forward. I also found some help with d8-9, CBD keeps the nerves level, overthinking and stress levels down. Just focused on finishing the vertical slice at a good pace now. Happy to hear the turnaround here with Father, I hope the release goes well, all the other games are fun!
Thomas, I had no idea this was going on, I signed up to your course, and admittedly went back to work in IT full time, so I put video game making on the back burner, but now I'm back as well, and just... no words. Thanks for this video, I kind of wondered what was happening, but I figured with your team, your audience, and your amazing talent and your school about how to be a full time game dev, you had this under control, but just goes to show that game dev is brutal mentally on the game devs. Glad to hear you are sticking with it, going back to Father! Even though it's not my type of game, I absolutely loved the trailer, like that's a trailer! And the game looks awesome... makes me wish it was the type of game I liked to play! Anyways, here's to the struggle! I guess even building what seems like a rather large empire, just makes it that much easier to hide true feelings behind it. I'm so glad that I learned all this from your continual struggles, on my first journey into this crazy world...game dev.
I can feel this. When I was in the final few months of development before I released my (Survive Into Night) on Steam I felt so isolated from EVERYONE. Every night I'd get the kids to bed and have to focus on the game over friends, and social events. It is an interesting experience especially close to release. Looking forward to seeing more of Father, really enjoyed those early dev logs.
this is a fantastic devlog. Very well done and really resonates with me. I hate my game and would want to continue making it but after working on it for six months, I feel like I have a love hate relationship with it. I think these videos are pretty important and you talking about these things is really important. Not many people do
Just wanted to comment about calling your dad when you're disappointed in yourself. That's pretty special to have a relationship with your dad like that. I've tried to do that with my dad and he's more of the judgmental type that thinks his opinion is always the right one. It's pretty special to have a dad like that with compassion. You tell him I said so!
So glad to hear Father is back on! I played the Demo and really enjoyed it! Ended up playing it three times in a row because i just wanted more of it! Keep up the good work and don't give up! Looking forward to the final game.
You are a great guy man, don't stop your journey and thank you for your honest experience. You are helping a lot of people even if you stop one day gamedev, your experience and your opinions still worth watching your videos. By the way you are the reason i bougth all BioShock games few days ago. Playing it first time i see why you are inspired by the game.
To be honest I feel you 100%. The anxiety is so overwhelming and volatile that its destroys all confidence and the project. I am relieved you got a solution. This is going to be a controversial topic but I smoke weed for my anxiety. It gives me the same effect as medication. Its silences my brain. And I can clearly focus on my goals. God bless Everyone who deals with anxiety as a game dev. Its truly hell on earth.
I'm glad you didn't give it up. It often happens when you take a break from something, you gain a new perspective, ideas mature in your head without even realizing. Good luck! And never forget how much you achieved, I can't believe we're the same age.
Oh my, Thomas, I thought you ditched but then... it's really nice to see you so happy and confident about the decision to continue with Father! I appreciate you sharing this inner struggles and all of it, I can relate and many can too I think. Be yourself and be it confortably even with all insecurities. I send you encouragement! :) Bye
I'm still working on my first game with the help of your Game Dev course. I've thrown out and deleted my project folder twice and restarted my bible... I've lost count. As a creative, I've always found difficulty in accepting my own work and seeing it through to completion, and now 7 months into my game dev journey I've recently killed my last kitten (writers know) and pivoted over to a whole new approach but I'm left feeling like a failure. I don't want to sound like "misery loves company," but this video really brightened my outlook. Thanks for sharing your struggles and how you overcame them. (I'm not trying edibles, though. CBD doesn't do anything to me and the other stuff makes me so paranoid I end up more stressed.)
It’s great to hear this story, man. I gave up on making games myself (couldn’t get coding) but this is inspirational to me as a writer to not give up. And if I do, to give it another shot after some time away.
My buddy and I contemplating leaving our lackluster careers to pursue game development. We are in our thirties, both have families, both struggle with fulfillment and anxiety and both also are believers. I have a couple years of hobby experience in Unity and am trying to get my friend up to speed as well. We have no lofty expectation that we will make an instant hit, but we have a really quirky story driven idea for a 2d game that has seemed to fall into place at every turn. Its been quite strange how well the idea's have come together (implementation another story). Its encouraging to see someone in such a similar situation and making it through. We are excited to "try" but are anxious about being able to still make a living and make a good game at the same time. I have a background in Film/Theater and am a musician (now a game dev) so if there is anything I can ever assist you with brother just let me know.
Hey Thomas, just wishlisted the game, can’t wait to buy it on launch day! I was wondering if you’d ever heard of Bioshock? The concept for this games seems pretty similar to it, it’s super fun, and I’d encourage you to check it it if you haven’t anyway! Thank you for the awesome video :)
Thanks so much for watchin guys, and all your kind words!
► Get my 2D game kit, free: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-2D-game-kit
► Learn how to become a full time game dev, free: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-how-to-make-six-figures
► Enroll in my 3D workshop, free!: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-15-minute-3D-game
► Make your game instantly beautiful with my free workbook: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-instant-beauty-color-workbook
► Join my 2D character workshop, free: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-2d-character-art-workshop
► Wishlist Twisted Tower: store.steampowered.com/app/1575990/Twisted_Tower/
► Learn how to make money as a TH-camr: www.fulltimegamedev.com/opt-in-indie-game-income-workshop
I saw real paranormal phenomena , hell is another dimension , is not empty the elite serve them , Jesus is the truth , I research real satanic books , was an atheist , big mistake , it risk my soul , now I try to save others.
Hey Thomas! Any chance that you share your pitch deck for me/us :)?
Reason 1, in my experience, is a symptom of being shut in all day, everyday with barely any human contact that aren't my gf or my family. I need to see people outside. Interact with them. Theatre and acting really help me find my balance.
When I do an entire week of homeoffice, I really feel like an outsider of humanity.
EDIT: also, therapy helps me. Especially with impostor syndrome.
When you’re learning, giving up on projects is good. Fail fast and fail often is what they say. However, when you are making a commercial game to support your family, scraping a project that is 90% complete is about the worse decision you can make. Sometimes you just need to get out of your own head. Father has looked amazing from the start! And honestly, I think it looks way more interesting than the dog game. Glad you took a much needed break and are ready to get back in there!
I think they both look fantastic.
I second this I was very much looking forward to Father
@@DarthMerlin Exactly very different but both with a great visual style, interesting tone and both make me want to play!
Now he has two games to sell!
Why have you forsaken me?
In your eyes forsaken me
In your forsaken me
In your heart forsaken me, oh
Father is one of the most marketable indie games I've seen in a while.
I was thinking I should make the main character a snail though. Thoughts?
Why have you forsaken me?
In your eyes forsaken me
In your thoughts forsaken me
In your heart forsaken me
@@thomasbrush 😂😂😂😂
Your transparency is admirable and encouraging - I was wondering where it went! So glad it's back in production :)
Or alternatively, a “Get my free course for a limited time” narcissistic grifter
@@apexprofessor3212 You okay, friend?
@@TheMattAMusic yes, but thank’s for the faux-concern 😘
After seeing Father for the first time I was feeling so proud for Thomas. I could not believe how great it was and that an indie game dev could make such game in such short time!!! It's a whole new level. Thomas stories are always super cool and deep. His graphics are always very ambient and beautiful. And now it's all in 3D and in much larger scale!!
Thomas keep on going with it. I believe you are the future of Game Dev industry. Please believe in yourself because we do and we want to see you succeed again and then again. And also let some of us follow your path :))
Thomas Was Not Alone after all!
Thank goodness you didn't actually cancel. I love what Father is trying to be. So excited for you and the team!
Glad you found a solution to the anxiety. God bless you, man.
I'm glad you picked yourself up, Thomas! You being so open about your struggles and journey is one of the reasons i look up to you
There's an important lesson here about how burnout even happens when we work on things we love. Thank you for sharing Thomas, your videos are always so down-to-earth and inspirational!
I still remember the interview that made you doubt it. Awesome that you're back at it!
I really need one of those gummies... My Game Dev journey is riddled by insecurities. Everytime I work I realize how far I've come, but also how far I have to go and I'm constantly overwhelmed. I really appreciate you sharing your experiences. Hopefully, I'll find the courage and determination to see my project through to delivery.
So excited for you! You've been a huge inspiration to me as I've toyed with the idea of getting into game development for the last couple years (not very successfully because of dealing with my own doubts and limitations). Thanks for being vulnerable (and for this exciting news about Father!). Hang in there and take care!
Honestly man, this level or realism is why I followed you in the first place. Seeing successful devs go through the same things I've been battling with helps me not to feel so alone. And seeing another Christian struggle with self-doubt and the chosen direction for their game in the same way that I do, also is incredible. I think you're doing good stuff man. And I'm glad you've picked Father back up. But even if you decided to shelf the project forever, I know whatever you make is gonna be solid. Stay grounded, find time for rest, find time for the Word, and keep your chin up. :)
We are blessed with tons of content from you lately!
It’s important to build the game that YOU want to play. “Age of Irata” is my passion project. It won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but I hope that if we continue putting our all into it, it will reach those people like me that are looking for more retro styled Metroidvania’s 😁.
Thank you for sharing your story, my friend 😁🍻
I've already wishlisted it 🙂🙂
@@defender5360 I appreciate that! It's so motivating to see the wishlist count growing! 😁
Cheers friend! 🍻🕹
Thank you so much for not dropping the game! You and the beautiful things you make are such an inspiration to me and to many others. I'm so excited to see you pull through! :)
Glad you decided to bring it back! I had been watching your progress videos and the game was looking great, can't wait to play it!
Good for you buddy! We'll done. Good luck with the development. It looks great!
After this video all i want is buy all your games to support your work because i love that you are so sincere and transparent in everything here
The hours i spent watching ur dev father videos and the good times I had and also fixed few bugs with others really made me sad if this game was not gonna be published. I really am relieved that its not over! i love the atmosphere of this game and the gameplay art etc
Keep it going Thomas💪!! Excited for "Father"🤩🙏
Thanks again Thomas for showing behind the scenes of challenges in development. Glad you decided to get Father back on the menu. You showing vids like this makes me feel like its ok to seek help. I've been going to counseling for years, and i didn't realize until recently that it helps alot to talk about my struggles in development. Its unfortunate that we as the individual that is making sone turns out to be our worst critic. My wife however has helped me overcome being critical of my work. Hang in there Thomas thanks for showing you have the same struggles we do, and don't stop seeking help when you need it, we all need help.
I'm not someone who really keeps up with your videos, but when you first showed gameplay of Father it looked absolutely stunning. Your game looks great and you should feel proud to have achieved so much, best wishes!
I just stopped working on a project after months of hard work.
This video really hit close to home.
Thank you !
Happy for you man! I'll sure buy your game as soon as it releases! Count me in!
Wow, this might just be my favourite video of yours. Something about this video and its story is so motivating and inspirational to me. Thanks!
I've had Father wishlisted forever! Been stoked for Father since you first started working on it. Cannot wait to play it. SO happy you didn't give up on it.
I had no idea you had that backstory, you don't really seem to feel out of place, you don't show it. I think it's these kinds of videos that motivate many indie developers, including me, to continue with those damn projects that seem like they'll never end, full of bugs, but that in the end will give you enormous satisfaction. Thanks for that.
So happy for you man! I watched all of the live streams for father and was extremely invested in it, still am and I cannot wait to play this game!
This is so relatable, thank you for posting these kinds of videos
Yea I gave two comments... Glad to see you got back on track again... wish you well and I hope it is a big success.
I have found that it's good to take breaks from longer projects as longer you work on it the heavier the burden.
Once you take a break the mind drifts away from that almost completely because that is what it needs.
But at some point it usually can come up at back of your head and feel fresh again to continue ^^
Absolutely friggen wonderful video! Thanks for sharing your story in such a well produced way. I've recently started my game dev journey and knowing that even for someone as well established as you can succumb to doubts helps me realize that we're all susceptible to too much "head soup" (overthinking). Keep on keepin' on! You and your team rock, man :D
Loved it. So much of a real man. Have fun first, goddammit. It's much more motivating than pleasing the audience
I admire your vulnerability,and gained some more love for you. Bless
So great to see you coming back and your mental state coming to a calm, brother
Thomas, it's one of the most touching, moving, humbling and at the same time hillarious videos you posted! Kudos! The cut with you naked or Alien section is pure gold :) With you all the best on your path!
@Thomas Brush I'm really glad you came back to this, because when I first saw the trailer I thought it was FREAKING AWESOME!! I also recently returned to a project I'd shelved for a few months, and it's really coming along well, promising to be my first actual release! Solidarity bro.
Thank you for sharing this, sincerely. I never would have suspected you to deal with these struggles based on your online persona, which is the beauty of you sharing so candidly. I've been following Father's development and could not be more excited and intrigued. So happy to see it's continuing, and more so, that you're happy to be making it again. Congrats to you and the team!
Very glad you've decided to continue working on this game, I'm big into shooters and was really looking forward to it!
I’ll admit, you had me in the first half 😂
So glad you aren’t done with the game it looks way too awesome! Also the publishers are 100% right all the creepy plot about twisted religion is exactly why I would want to play the game.
Happy that you got through that man. I'm excited to see more of the enhanced Father experience.
This video was a rollercoaster of emotion. I'm stoked! So happy things are working out for you!
Not going to lie you got me at the beginning! What a roller coaster of feelings when I've been watching it being built for so long. So I can't wait to play it
Glad you found your direction back to the project,
while I think a lot of us can emphasize with the struggles you had, I think it's common for most people to doubt themselves and their projects at some point, it's good to hear that you found a way to overcome this period. I also think it would have been a shame, and not a great financial decision, to bury the project. I also really appreciate the honesty here!
What you said at the end - just people asking about what you make and be interested in it - that gives me a ton of motivation too and some feeling of what I work on has a worth to others too.
Really needed this right now. Cheers, Thomas!
Glad you took the time you needed, and also glad you came back to Father! Watching so much of the livestreams, it’s apparent that this game has your heart and soul in it and that is what makes it unique and likeable, even if that means it isn’t for everyone - no game with this kind of thematic depth should be for everyone in my opinion
Glad you published this video and Im glad your continuing to work on Father. I think a lot of people can relate in one way or another to you experience, especially the imposter syndrome.
Glad to hear all that work you put into your Father game will eventually lead to a finished product. Don't give up. It happens to all of us that we slowly dive into a pit of despair with our work and the fix is to step away for a break before coming back in. I still have this problem with my programming project but with my day-job, I take breaks throughout and don't ever fall into the pit of despair.
Hey I'm glad you were able to get back on track with your game, it looks incredible! A good friend and I just started meeting weekly to work on our game-goals, and I bought your 3D/2D courses. I have pretty bad ADHD and it's taken forever to try and start something, (in my thirties) but am hopeful of sharing my progress at some point. You are a voice of inspiration for us new comers, and I'm sure I speak for many when I say your honesty is truly unique and appreciated. We all have rough patches, but it's being able to reflect on them with an open mind that allows us to grow from them. 😊
It's funny how the things that may seem weird or unmarketable are what help it stand out. When you listed all those things my gut reaction was "This sounds amazing! And refreshing!"
Wow! Your videos are works of art!
The music at the end was amazing. I would love to learn your design process for your YT videos.
sometimes rejection is good cause it sometimes helps inspire us all
Super powerful message and very inspiring. Looking forward to playing it.
I’m glad that you are sharing both sides of game dev. I thought only small devs or beginners feel this way. Thanks for sharing the other side of your journey too.
I know the feeling man. I wish you the best bud been following you for quite some time now and I'm really glad you're so open about this type of things.
I have been so excited for this game and have been following your progress from the beginning. Im glad you are revisiting this it looks badass and I cant wait to play it when it comes out!
After working in retail close to 10 years and only just discovering my passion for game development I've just got to say that channels like yours are very reassuring and great to see thanks for the content!
So weird,but I needed this video. Excited and happy for you as always dude!
I work for a AAA studio - we have a 3 week long break in the winter and a 1-week break in the summer. It helps to get away from the project for a bit and clear your head. It's the only way to keep your creativity and confidence in the game
Brilliant game, great man, i always knew there was a reason why i was drawn to your videos... im a 33 year old new daughter dad and you inspired me to start a game development studio. you are awesome i cant wait to play the game, and i cant wait to show you mine!
Yaaaay! This sounds so fun and amazing. Like Neversong, I’ll continue to follow development and play this game once it comes out!
And while I’m waiting, this has inspired me to get back to the video game making course I got from you. A little bit ago, I got a new job and I started school back up and I thought I wouldn’t have time or energy to continue learning how to make games. For a while I think that was true, all the changes and adjustments meant that I would work, commute home, do my schooling, take care of my dog, then pass out. Now, though, I’m starting to adjust, and with that adjustment I’m realizing that actually, learning how to make games is fun! I liked doing it before, and I feel it’ll help more than hurt to keep doing it now, even though I have considerably less time.
I hope one day to release my own game. I have so many visions, and you are a constant inspiration!
Thanks for sharing your struggle, man! It's really inspiring cause I'm in a similar situation, though I have a dog plus a cat to take care of :) I will continue to struggle through this, finding time to learn and create my voxel art after my day job. Wish you all the best in your endeavors!
This is amazing man. So glad you were able to step back and feel like yourself again 🙌 you’ve been an INCREDIBLE source of inspiration to me through both your highs, and your lows. 💪
This hits me hard. I am in the same state of mind with my current development (mostly from scope creep overload) Anxiety creeps along with it all and the nagging imposter syndrome since this is the first game I am trying to publish solo... I know you have talked about this in past videos as well but thanks for bringing up the discussion again, it helps to keep moving forward.
I also found some help with d8-9, CBD keeps the nerves level, overthinking and stress levels down. Just focused on finishing the vertical slice at a good pace now. Happy to hear the turnaround here with Father, I hope the release goes well, all the other games are fun!
Congratulations on your decision. I am rooting for you. God bless you.
Haven't seen any of your stuff in a while but I've been excited for this game. Sorry you had to go through all this.
Congrats on the revelation! Excited to see father launch (was pretty sweet at gdc).
Glad you you took a break, anxiety sucks in any capacity and I'm happy to see you got over it.
Also I'm incredibly hyped for father it looks awesome.
Thank god. Was so looking forward to this game : ) ! Keep it up Thomas!
Dude thanks for the Candid video! Was really helpful.
Tom, you're the man! Keep going! Love ya!
Excellent video! I'm excited to see you back to working on Father!
I liked what I saw of the dog game, but I really liked your demo.
Thomas, I had no idea this was going on, I signed up to your course, and admittedly went back to work in IT full time, so I put video game making on the back burner, but now I'm back as well, and just... no words. Thanks for this video, I kind of wondered what was happening, but I figured with your team, your audience, and your amazing talent and your school about how to be a full time game dev, you had this under control, but just goes to show that game dev is brutal mentally on the game devs. Glad to hear you are sticking with it, going back to Father! Even though it's not my type of game, I absolutely loved the trailer, like that's a trailer! And the game looks awesome... makes me wish it was the type of game I liked to play! Anyways, here's to the struggle! I guess even building what seems like a rather large empire, just makes it that much easier to hide true feelings behind it. I'm so glad that I learned all this from your continual struggles, on my first journey into this crazy world...game dev.
I can feel this. When I was in the final few months of development before I released my (Survive Into Night) on Steam I felt so isolated from EVERYONE. Every night I'd get the kids to bed and have to focus on the game over friends, and social events. It is an interesting experience especially close to release. Looking forward to seeing more of Father, really enjoyed those early dev logs.
You are aaaaawesome!!! Thanks for these kind of videos! Love your honesty!
Glad to see a turn! Awesome job man! The game looks sweet!
this is a fantastic devlog. Very well done and really resonates with me. I hate my game and would want to continue making it but after working on it for six months, I feel like I have a love hate relationship with it. I think these videos are pretty important and you talking about these things is really important. Not many people do
Just wanted to comment about calling your dad when you're disappointed in yourself. That's pretty special to have a relationship with your dad like that. I've tried to do that with my dad and he's more of the judgmental type that thinks his opinion is always the right one. It's pretty special to have a dad like that with compassion. You tell him I said so!
Father looks flippin' awesome. I hadn't seen the updated graphics until now. The dog game looks great too. Keep up the awesome work, dude!
I played the demo and I loved it, and hearing you are not going to ditch the game made my day.
So glad to hear Father is back on! I played the Demo and really enjoyed it! Ended up playing it three times in a row because i just wanted more of it! Keep up the good work and don't give up! Looking forward to the final game.
Hell yeah, Thomas! Congratulations!
You are a great guy man, don't stop your journey and thank you for your honest experience. You are helping a lot of people even if you stop one day gamedev, your experience and your opinions still worth watching your videos. By the way you are the reason i bougth all BioShock games few days ago. Playing it first time i see why you are inspired by the game.
You really inspired me to continue with my game. Thank you sir.
To be honest I feel you 100%. The anxiety is so overwhelming and volatile that its destroys all confidence and the project. I am relieved you got a solution.
This is going to be a controversial topic but I smoke weed for my anxiety. It gives me the same effect as medication. Its silences my brain. And I can clearly focus on my goals.
God bless Everyone who deals with anxiety as a game dev. Its truly hell on earth.
I'm glad you didn't give it up. It often happens when you take a break from something, you gain a new perspective, ideas mature in your head without even realizing. Good luck! And never forget how much you achieved, I can't believe we're the same age.
Thank you so much for this awesome video ^^
I really felt with you.
Father. Is. Back.?! Alright lets go! Thanks for your transparency and sharing with us. I am really looking forward to this game.
I felt so sad when u said that u gonna leave the game bcs u spent a lot of time & money that's not easy, I'm so happy that u keep it, go-on bro👏🏻💯
Oh my, Thomas, I thought you ditched but then... it's really nice to see you so happy and confident about the decision to continue with Father! I appreciate you sharing this inner struggles and all of it, I can relate and many can too I think. Be yourself and be it confortably even with all insecurities. I send you encouragement! :) Bye
I'm still working on my first game with the help of your Game Dev course. I've thrown out and deleted my project folder twice and restarted my bible... I've lost count. As a creative, I've always found difficulty in accepting my own work and seeing it through to completion, and now 7 months into my game dev journey I've recently killed my last kitten (writers know) and pivoted over to a whole new approach but I'm left feeling like a failure. I don't want to sound like "misery loves company," but this video really brightened my outlook. Thanks for sharing your struggles and how you overcame them. (I'm not trying edibles, though. CBD doesn't do anything to me and the other stuff makes me so paranoid I end up more stressed.)
Glad to hear that you continue the game🌟🌟🌟
It’s great to hear this story, man. I gave up on making games myself (couldn’t get coding) but this is inspirational to me as a writer to not give up. And if I do, to give it another shot after some time away.
there's one thing I've learned in life is just take a step back, relax, and when all else fails just go for it anyways. you can always recover.
My buddy and I contemplating leaving our lackluster careers to pursue game development. We are in our thirties, both have families, both struggle with fulfillment and anxiety and both also are believers. I have a couple years of hobby experience in Unity and am trying to get my friend up to speed as well. We have no lofty expectation that we will make an instant hit, but we have a really quirky story driven idea for a 2d game that has seemed to fall into place at every turn. Its been quite strange how well the idea's have come together (implementation another story). Its encouraging to see someone in such a similar situation and making it through. We are excited to "try" but are anxious about being able to still make a living and make a good game at the same time. I have a background in Film/Theater and am a musician (now a game dev) so if there is anything I can ever assist you with brother just let me know.
Sometimes taking a break from something, is the best thing you can do ;-)
As a fellow dev, I'm happy that you have found your passion again 🙂
You rock! Can't wait to play Father.
Even tho I don't play games anymore. I got really upset hearing that you quit, what a relief after hearing the second half of the video.
Loved the plot twist, glad you are sticking to your gut, sometimes authenticity is all we got! And to be honest it makes the best games.
I'm glad u didn't cancel "Father" Thomas, this has to be the closest any gamer has gotten to reviving their most anticipated game!!
Hey Thomas, just wishlisted the game, can’t wait to buy it on launch day! I was wondering if you’d ever heard of Bioshock? The concept for this games seems pretty similar to it, it’s super fun, and I’d encourage you to check it it if you haven’t anyway! Thank you for the awesome video :)
Great story. Best of luck Thomas