This is yet another episode in our series highlighting Australian success stories, aimed at inspiring the next generation of game makers. 

In this episode, Jens speaks with Jay Topping, Co-Founder and Creative Director of WeForge Studios, about the journey behind the co-op horror game Macabre. Starting as a lockdown project between friends with no prior games industry experience, WeForge gradually built a community around the game through continuous iteration, transparent communication and a deep understanding of audience engagement. Jay shares lessons on validating ideas early, using marketing to inform development, running a successful Kickstarter campaign, and navigating the challenges of self-publishing and launching an indie game. It’s an honest conversation about the realities of building a studio from scratch, and the persistence, adaptability and authenticity required along the way.