Stop Building Trapware: Honest Game Design

We have discord now! https://discord.gg/vS4vqVkKMm Test Digicity: City Builder: https://testflight.apple.com/join/ueaq8JD1

Performative declarations and zero-sum mindsets don't solve real systemic problems—whether in global trade or software architecture. In this episode, we examine the friction between surface-level optics and functional systems, starting with political performativity before diving deep into hands-on game development.

Follow along as we break down the process of building an indie city-builder coded from a blank text editor without relying on commercial engines. We explore the architectural decisions behind modeling real-world anti-forces—like air, water, and sound pollution—and discuss the engineering friction of replacing legacy infrastructure as cities transition across technological eras.

We take a firm stance against the pervasive trapware dominating modern app stores. By rejecting ad-driven engagement tricks in favor of a clean, pay-once model, software can prioritize therapeutic, open-ended creativity over psychological manipulation.

Ready to rethink your approach to software architecture, game mechanics, and honest monetization? Stream the full episode today, check out the project build in the description, and jump into our Discord server to connect with fellow builders.

(00:00) Hello! (00:02) Launching a new community Discord server (00:51) Executive declarations and executive branch overreach (04:40) Why zero-sum economics ruins real trade (08:54) Building an indie city-builder from scratch (11:25) Modeling air, water, and sound pollution (13:35) Rejecting predatory trapware and ad monetization (16:50) Upgrading energy infrastructure across technological eras (19:40) Designing collaborative trade between player cities (23:45) Handling legacy systems and urban growth (31:10) Examining regional nuances in West Coast culture

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/SiSZAhpL6qg?si=eaT3tzgNr6iAgNlO

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