The Complexity of Games & The Simplicity of Christ

It's easy to get bogged down in the complexities of making games. A typical day for me consists of hopping between various programs to get my work done. For example, I currently have Unity, Rider (my IDE of choice), GIT Tower, Photoshop, Illustrator, Texture Packer, and Chrome open on my computer. I’m not an outlier here; ask around. Program names may differ, but every role in the industry requires proficiency in multiple tools and technologies today.


As a programmer, I try to fight the momentum of complexity and keep things as simple as possible. However, things inevitably become complex through the course of a project. This thrust toward complexity is technology’s natural bend. 


Throughout history, technology has built upon itself in ever-expanding layers. As game developers, we create on top of others’ work (complex hardware and software) as a base to create our own complex systems. With more platforms, growing budgets, and rising player expectations, I don’t foresee game development becoming simpler in the foreseeable future.


In an industry of ever-increasing complexity, the good news is God’s plan for us is refreshingly simple. In John 15, Jesus explains it this way, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” 


Stay connected with me, and you’ll bear fruit. No intensive training course, expensive software, or task management system is required. Just be in a relationship with me, and as we spend time together, you’ll become like me. Simple.

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
— John 15:5-8
 
 
 
Brock Henderson

Brock believes the world is a better place when we play together. As co-founder and CTO of PxlPug, he is excited to share that message with the world. PxlPug’s purpose is to create a healthy community where individuals are valued for who they are and are encouraged to grow into who they were created to be. The studio does this by crafting games that bring people together.

A designer, developer, and entrepreneur, he has a passion for creating video games and a proven track record with over 25 shipped titles and 3+ million downloads. Before entering the games industry, he co-founded the design firm Paper Tower where he served as creative director for over a decade. During that time, he designed interactive experiences for clients like Coca-Cola, Motorola, and Harvard.

Brock currently resides in a small town in Iowa with his beautiful wife Vanessa and their six children.

https://brockhenderson.com
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A Shared Language

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Video Games: A Medium After God’s Own Heart