Dealing well with difficult feedback | Anna Barham and Sam Barham | NZGDC 2025

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The talk offers valuable insights into managing difficult feedback in a game development context, based on real experience. The speakers provide a clear, step-by-step process that is actionable and grounded in practical examples. They also incorporate psychological concepts to explain the emotional response to criticism, which adds depth. The argumentation is coherent and persuasive, though it relies heavily on anecdotal evidence rather than empirical data. The inclusion of specific details, such as the thematic analysis and the use of a mirror board, enhances credibility. However, the psychological explanations are simplified and not rigorously sourced, which slightly weakens the scientific rigor.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The talk is based on the speakers’ professional experience, which is a valid source for practical advice. However, it lacks formal citations or references to external research, except for a brief mention of Simon Sinek’s ‘Start with Why’. The title accurately reflects the content, and the talk stays on topic. The description mentions that the talk was expanded from a shorter version, but no additional sources are provided. The absence of verifiable sources limits the scientific rigor, but the practical nature of the content partially compensates for this.

The title accurately reflects the content, which focuses on strategies for handling difficult feedback in a game development context.

7/10

The talk is based on the speakers' direct professional experience and includes references to psychological concepts (fight-or-flight, grief stages) and a structured process. However, it lacks formal citations or empirical data, and the psychological explanations are simplified.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 02:00Introduction to Balancing Monkey Games and the game 'Beyond These Stars'.
• 05:00Receiving the harsh feedback from the publisher.
• 08:00Explanation of the psychological response to criticism.
• 12:00The five stages of grief applied to the feedback experience.
• 15:00The plan: prepare thoroughly, yeet the creative director, carve out time, brainstorm, check in, design, prototype, playtest, and check culture.
• 20:00Thematic analysis of the feedback and preparing the team.
• 25:00Brainstorming session with the team using a mirror board.
• 30:00Prototyping process: eight prototypes, separate branches, and testing with playtesters.
• 35:00Positive feedback from the publisher after the changes.
• 40:00Importance of company culture and guiding principles.

• Simon Sinek - Start with Why — Mentioned as a framework for understanding the importance of 'why' in communication.

• Simon Sinek - Start with Why — The speakers reference this concept to emphasize the importance of understanding the 'why' behind feedback.