Welcome to a Special Christmas Episode of Games Every Designer Should Play, the podcast that explores the world of game design by analysing some of the greatest games of all time. Join game design lecturers Stuart Lilford, Adrian Mills, and David Grant as they return to Shadow Moses to unpack the legacy of Metal Gear Solid — one of the most influential and idiosyncratic games ever made.

🚨 Spoiler alert for the game! We strongly recommend playing Metal Gear Solid before listening.

In this episode, we explore how Metal Gear Solid blends cinematic storytelling, memorable characters, and inventive stealth mechanics to create a landmark experience. We discuss its iconic boss fights and how they subvert player expectations, the way it famously breaks the fourth wall, and how countless small details — codec calls, animations, sound design, and contextual interactions — elevate the entire experience.

On the critical side, we examine the game’s portrayal of female characters, questioning how well it has aged, and debate whether the second disc adds meaningful tension or feels like unnecessary padding. We also reflect on how its setting, tone, and ambition defined The Rule of Cool.

🎧 Featuring listener feedback and the verdict: Is Metal Gear Solid still a must-play for every designer?

📧 Email us your comments or questions on the game discussed in the next episode at shouldplaypodcast@gmail.com

Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share! #GameDesign #Podcast #GamesEveryDesignerShouldPlay #MetalGearSolid #StealthGames #NarrativeDesign

Thank you for tuning in — and happy holidays! 🎄🎧✨

We are @ShouldPlayPod on Instagram, Twitter, BlueSky, Threads, and YouTube.

=== CREDITS === Music by Vasil Trofimov from Pixabay. Sound Effects by floraphonic from Pixabay. Thanks to Gary Mitchell for Technical Support.

Welcome to Episode 14 of 'Games Every Designer Should Play,' the podcast that explores the world of game design by analysing some of the greatest games of all time. Join experienced Game Design lecturers Stuart Lilford, Adrian Mills, and David Grant as they roll into the wacky, colourful world of Katamari Damacy.

🚨 Spoiler alert for The Game! We STRONGLY advise you to play before listening.

In this episode, we discuss how Katamari Damacy nails its core gameplay loop, providing constant feedback and a sense of progression through clever design. We explore its unique game feel — from whimsical sound effects to imaginative art direction — and how its playful mechanics, hidden side-challenges, and subtle depth keep players engaged. Plus, we look at all the extra touches the game affords, like the addition of the snorkel, the item descriptions, and the amazing end-credits level.

Featuring feedback from listeners and the verdict: Is Katamari Damacy a must-play for every designer?

📧 Email us your comments or questions on the game discussed in the next episode at shouldplaypodcast@gmail.com

It's David's turn to choose the game we must play for the next episode. Will it be beloved by all or could it be controversial? You'll have to listen to the end to find out! 👀

Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! #GameDesign #Podcast #GamesEveryDesignerShouldPlay #KatamariDamacy #IndieGames #GameMechanics #CoreGameplayLoop

Thank you for tuning in! 🎧✨

We are @ShouldPlayPod on Instagram, Twitter BlueSky, Threads, and YouTube.

=== CREDITS ===

Music by Vasil Trofimov from Pixabay.

Sound Effects by floraphonic from Pixabay.

Thanks to Gary Mitchell for Technical Support

Welcome to a Special Bonus Halloween Episode of 'Games Every Designer Should Play,' the podcast that explores the world of game design by analysing some of the greatest games of all time. Join experienced Game Design lecturers Stuart Lilford, Adrian Mills, and David Grant as they discuss Mouthwashing — a visceral indie game that shows us how to tell a powerful narrative.

🚨 Spoiler alert for The Game! We STRONGLY advise you to play before listening.

In this episode, we discuss how Mouthwashing demonstrates the value of starting small, using a compact scope to deliver a focused and memorable experience. We explore how removing player choice can strengthen narrative impact, how environmental storytelling and sharp dialogue build emotional depth, and how leaning into limitations — whether in animation, art style, or level design — can lead to bold creative decisions.

📧 Email us your comments or questions on the game discussed in the next episode at shouldplaypodcast@gmail.com

Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! #GameDesign #Podcast #GamesEveryDesignerShouldPlay #IndieGames #NarrativeDesign #Mouthwashing

Thank you for tuning in! 🎧✨

We are @ShouldPlayPod on Instagram, Twitter Blue Sky, Threads, and YouTube.

=== CREDITS ===

Music by Vasil Trofimov from Pixabay.

Sound Effects by floraphonic from Pixabay.

Thanks to Gary Mitchell for Technical Support