Did you Know? Humans Exist in Game Dev | Chesna Gomes | NZGDC 2025

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The talk provides practical, experience-based advice on improving team dynamics in game development. Gomes’s argument is coherent and well-structured, using the onion metaphor from Shrek to illustrate the complexity of human beings. She effectively connects each element (authenticity, empathy, vulnerability, fun) to tangible team outcomes, such as better communication and conflict resolution. However, the argumentation relies heavily on anecdotal evidence and personal anecdotes, with limited scientific backing. The speaker acknowledges that the content is not new, but she frames it as a reminder of important principles. The inclusion of specific examples, like the ‘go team’ ritual, adds credibility and applicability.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The talk references a few sources, including Ranjay Gulati on authenticity, Craig Dickens on empathy, Timotei R. Clark on vulnerability, and Michelle Lin Meyer on joy in the workplace. However, these references are brief and not formally cited, and no URLs are provided. The speaker does not delve into the methodology or findings of these studies, so the scientific rigor is limited. The title accurately reflects the content, as the talk is about recognizing the human element in game development. The presentation is more of an inspirational talk than a rigorous scientific analysis, but it does offer practical insights based on the speaker’s experience.

The title is catchy and relevant, as the talk emphasizes the human element in game development, which is often overlooked.

6/10

The talk is based on personal experience and anecdotal evidence, with some references to academic and business literature (e.g., Ranjay Gulati, Craig Dickens, Timotei R. Clark, Michelle Lin Meyer) but lacks detailed citations or empirical data. The speaker acknowledges the content is known and clichéd, and the presentation is more motivational than rigorously scientific.

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

• 01:00Introduction: Speaker introduces herself and her background, emphasizing her multicultural identity.
• 03:00Introduces the onion metaphor from Shrek to explain human complexity.
• 05:00Discusses fostering authenticity, citing Ranjay Gulati and sharing personal examples.
• 08:00Explores empathy, referencing Craig Dickens and the importance of curiosity.
• 10:00Talks about vulnerability, citing Timotei R. Clark and the value of speaking up.
• 12:00Highlights the role of fun and joy, referencing Michelle Lin Meyer and the science of laughter.
• 15:00Shares practical examples from her team, including team time and silly rituals.
• 18:00Explains how these elements impact production, focusing on communication and alignment.
• 20:00Summarizes the talk and invites questions.
• 22:00Q&A: Handling conflicts between team members and managing expectations.

• Ranjay Gulati on authenticity in organizations — Referenced when discussing the importance of employees expressing individuality.
• Craig Dickens on empathy and curiosity — Referenced when discussing the link between curiosity and empathy.
• Timotei R. Clark on vulnerability and speaking up — Referenced when discussing the value of vulnerable behaviors like speaking up.
• Michelle Lin Meyer on joy in the workplace — Referenced when discussing the importance of fun and joy at work.

• Google's Project Aristotle on team effectiveness — Supports the importance of psychological safety and team dynamics.