Podcast Interview: Developing the browser-based MMO Horse Isle

Joe, from Horse Isle, talks about the challenges and opportunities of developing a casual browser-based MMO. Joe discusses developing a flash-based MMO.

You can download the podcast here…
http://www.indiegamepod.com/podcasts/horseisle-podcast.mp3

or listen to it here…
http://www.indiegamepod.com/dewplayer.swf?mp3=http://www.indiegamepod.com/podcasts/horseisle-podcast.mp3

Show Notes:
0:00 – 5:00 — Introduction and description of the browser-based game called Horse Isle

5:00 – 10:00 — Development needed and testing process to release the game

10:00 – 15:00 — Description of how the world works and the underlying technical design of the game including PHP architecture

15:00 – 20:00 — Benefits of rolling own backend server vs. commercial backend server. Future development and enhancements to the game. Techniques for marketing the game.

20:00 – 25:00 — Game/Community limitations based on targeting an under-13 audience. Issues with updating a game that is always live….and having a test server to ensure stable releases. Time spent on technical vs. business issues related to the game.

25:00 – 30:00 — Social elements of running a game. Lessons learned from developing a browser-based MMO. Suggestions for other indie game developers out there.

Take care,
Action