GDC 2025 Session Viewer
Tabletop Summit: From Cardboard to Pixels: The Challenges and Rewards
Krzysztof Zarczynski (Managing Director, Monster Couch)
Theresa Duringer (CEO, Temple Gates Games)
Scott Martins (President and Founder, Dire Wolf)
Cole Wehrle (Creative Director, Leder Games / Wehrlegig Games)
Location: Room 3024, West Hall
Date: Monday, March 17
Time: 4:40 pm - 5:40 pm
Pass Type: All Access Pass, Summits Pass - Get your pass now!
Track: Design
Format: Panel
Vault Recording: Video
Audience Level: All
In this panel, industry leaders Scott Martins (Dire Wolf), Theresa Duringer (Temple Gates Games), Krzysztof Żarczyński (Monster Couch), and Jaye Handel (Handelabra Games) explore the complexities of adapting physical board games into digital formats. Drawing from their experiences with successful games like Dune: Imperium, Dominion, Wingspan, and Spirit Island they discuss the technical, design, and business challenges unique to digital adaptations. The panelists will share insights into maintaining the core experience of the physical game, the role of AI in creating engaging solo experiences, and how digital tools can enhance the board game experience. Moderated by Cole Wehrle (tabletop designer of Root) this panel will explore the design gotchas and windfalls of bringing physical board games to digital.
Takeaway
Attendees will gain insights into the process of adapting physical board games into digital formats, from scouting for board games through licensing and development hurdles to marketing and player expectations. Developers will leave with strategies for preserving the essence of physical games while enhancing them with digital capabilities.
Intended Audience
This session is designed for game developers interested in adapting board games into digital as well as professionals on the physical side who want to know how to best play into the strengths and affordances of a digital incarnation. Familiarity with board game mechanics will enhance understanding of the discussion.
