From Animation to Award-Winning Games: The Ember Lab Brothers & Building Your Own Door

To start this one off... did you know that Black History Month didn’t start as a month?

It actually started as Negro History Week. Founded in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, it was created to highlight the achievements of Black Americans in the United States — specifically the descendants of enslaved Black people in America (what some today refer to us Foundational Black Americans). Dr. Carter G. Woodson wanted to make sure our achievements weren’t erased, minimized, or forgotten.

So when we talk about Mike and Josh Grier, the brothers behind Ember Lab... this isn’t just about celebrating a successful studio. It’s about documenting a blueprint — everything needs a starting point.

And trust me… this blueprint doesn’t require permission, and it definitely doesn’t require going into debt for a degree. There are more accessible ways to learn now than ever. So if you're a creator at heart, this one’s for you!

 They Didn’t Start Where You Think 

Ember Lab was founded in 2009 in Orange, California. But they didn’t start as a game studio.

They started in animation, but... this wasn’t messing around on a laptop. Their short films, including Dust and the now-legendary Majora’s Mask: Terrible Fate, were polished, cinematic, and precise. That Zelda fan film alone made people stop scrolling, and it has over 15 million views so far.

Mike Grier sharpened his craft as a digital artist in Japan. Josh Grier handled operations, writing, and production — which (let’s be honest), is the part many creatives forget about until things get chaotic.

Now to be clear… yes, formal education was part of their journey — but in today’s landscape, that same level of skill can be built through online platforms, targeted courses, and real-world practice without taking on long-term debt.

They weren’t waiting for someone to hire them with fingers crossed... they made their next move their best move and it paid off. They built proof of their capabilities and it caught the eye of Sony.

Proof travels faster than resumes.

 From Proof to The Game Awards 

That proof turned into Kena: Bridge of Spirits in 2021. Best Independent Game + Best Debut Title and the Game Awards stage! That’s not a lucky break... it stemmed from their growing skillset.

Now in 2026, they’re preparing to release Kena: Scars of Kosmora, continuing a franchise that started from what some would’ve called an “untraditional” background.

But here’s the thing… there is no traditional path anymore. SDGT Entertainment didn’t come from a traditional path either. If we had to wait around for a greenlight, we wouldn't exist.

 You Don’t Need a Specific Door 

Some people think the only way into game development looks like this:

College → Internship → Studio Job → Promotion → Maybe Direct a Game

But the Grier brothers showed something more important than a path — they showed what matters:

Skill → Portfolio → Visibility → Opportunity → Ownership

Now how you get that skill? Well... I'm glad you asked.

You can go the traditional route (which I don't advise)… or you can build your skills head on:

Learning (Unreal Engine + Udemy) → Skill → Portfolio → Visibility → Opportunity → Ownership

or Learning (Unreal Engine + Udemy) → Skill → Create → Visibility → Self-Publish → Ownership

Same destination… without the debt.

When you build your own door, you let yourself in. And that’s the beauty of creating your own opportunity. Results will vary, but if this is something you're passionate about... give it your best!

It doesn't always have to be your door if it's open to you... and it's where you want to be.

See Careers at Ember Lab

 Unreal Engine: The Great Equalizer 

Let’s talk tools.

Here’s what that means today:

The engine used by AAA studios is downloadable right now. (BIP!)

Blueprint scripting allows you to build logic without deep coding knowledge. (BOOM!)

Marketplace assets allow you to prototype fast. (BAM!)

Tutorial ecosystems are massive. (POW!)

Documentation is public. (BANG!)

And most of this can be learned for $0 to less than $100 if you move smart. Don't miss this part... we've thumped these drums for awhile now because the barrier isn’t access anymore.

But like anything... it will require discipline, but think about what it will lead to. You'd literally create your own world, characters, and story! Whole fanbases exist because some are just that awesome!

 Portfolio Over Permission 

It doesn't matter what the industry says, a number of studios are out of touch. If you want to create a game, there are faster, more affordable ways to get started today than spending years in college and taking on massive debt. Portfolio's matter more than a degree. If opportunities are hard to come by… research, learn, and build.

And that’s the heart of this story. The Grier brothers didn’t ask if they belonged... they showed up, showed out and the gamers came.

If you want to get into game development? Build... something. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be massive. But it would be your first build... and then you build upon that. Tweak, test, play.

Those ambitious steps forward create that much needed... momentum.

 Representation and Responsibility 

Black developers are still underrepresented in the industry. So if you ever needed motivation that adds to that percentage... Mike and Josh Grier are prime examples, along with the Kena franchise. (By the way, they aren't related to David Allen Grier... I checked!)

But yeah... that’s why visibility matters. When creators see founders who look like them... winning and building on those wins, something shifts. Possibility becomes practical.

So the bottom line is... you don’t need:

• A perfect roadmap
• A massive budget
• Institutional validation

You need:

• Willingness
• Learning
• Skill stacking
• Persistence

Ember Lab didn’t wait for entry... they built it. You can too! No lie, you can literally get started here with the Unreal Engine that takes you from Step 1 to Step 5 (with help from Epic Games):

Step 1 - Download and Install Unreal Engine

• Install Unreal Engine from the Epic Games Launcher.

Step 2 - Your First Hour in Unreal Engine

• Get hands-on with UE in this interactive video course.

Step 3 - Create Your First Game

• Learn how to develop the basic mechanics of a first-person game.

Step 4 - Explore Tools and Features

• Check out the Stack O Bot sample to see how Unreal uses a number of features within a project.

Step 5 - Package, Publish, and Distribute!

• Ready to share your project? Learn how to package your project for distribute.

"Let's go!" - Epic Games

 + Sophi 

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Dear Developers: Did TopSpin 2K25 sabotage TopSpin 2K26?

TopSpin 2K25 may look polished, but its long-term success hinges on one thing: intuitive, responsive controls. Without them, frustration overshadows presentation, and players remember the struggle more than the fun. This is something we've pointed out before, but TopSpin 2K25 is a prime example.

 The Promise of TopSpin 2K25 

After more than a decade away, the TopSpin franchise returned with TopSpin 2K25, promising authenticity, sleek visuals, and the thrill of competitive tennis. Reviews highlight its strong presentation and realistic atmosphere, but beneath the surface lies a critical issue: controls that feel more like a barrier than a gateway.

Games like this thrive when players can pick up a controller and immediately feel connected to the sport. Tennis is about rhythm, timing, and instinct. If the controls demand excessive memorization or punish players with inconsistent mechanics, the immersion collapses.

 When Controls Become a Roadblock 

Players have voiced frustration with TopSpin 2K25’s timing-based system. Even with an in-game coach guiding newcomers, the learning curve is steep. Worse, mechanics like the swing meter don’t always respond to button release as expected. Landing in the “perfect” zone but watching the shot misfire isn’t just disappointing—it’s discouraging.

This isn’t a matter of difficulty alone. It’s about trust. When players feel the game doesn’t respond to their inputs reliably, paranoia sets in. They remember the frustration, and future titles inherit skepticism before they’re even played.

 Why Controls Matter More Than Graphics 

No matter how stunning the visuals or how authentic the animations, controls are the foundation of player experience. A game can look like Wimbledon in 4K HDR, but if swinging a racket feels like wrestling with the controller, players won’t stick around.

Good controls:

• Empower instinctive play. Players should feel like they’re reacting to the ball, not fighting the interface.

• Encourage mastery. A learning curve is fine, but it should reward practice, not punish persistence.

• Build loyalty. When controls feel natural, players return for more matches, more seasons, and more sequels.

 A Plea for Accessibility 

This was meant to be a review at the time of the release, but the controls turned it into a letter. Developers, if you want the TopSpin 2K franchise to thrive beyond its launch window, make the controls a partner, not an obstacle.

• Simplify mechanics so timing feels fair and responsive.

• Ensure meters and release points behave consistently.

• Offer scalable difficulty that teaches without overwhelming.

Players don’t need hand-holding, but they do need confidence that their inputs matter. Without that, the game risks being remembered not for its revival, but for its frustration.

TopSpin 2K25 had the potential to be the definitive tennis game of this generation. But success isn’t about graphics, authenticity, or even career modes—it’s about controls that invite players in and keep them engaged in the action. If the controls remain a stumbling block, the franchise risks alienating the very audience it worked so hard to win back. Having an option for arcade-style controls would've even helped those who wanted in on the fun without the complication. The only way I see them winning back some supporters is for them to release a demo ahead of the next release to showcase improved controls.

Want to try the game yourself? Play for free for a limited time, now!

 + Sophi 

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Dear Developers: Why Sony’s Concord... Didn’t Have to Fail!

In this installment of Dear Developer, I have to start by saying... Sony's Concord flop didn't have to occur. 

You heard me right. (Yeah... I said it!)

This guy looks like the alien version of Nathan Drake mixed w/ Yondu!

Knowing When Enough is Enough

Developers must recognize when a particular concept has reached its saturation point at a particular time. With the abundance of PvP games on the market, how was Concord going to successfully compete? Instead, it could have been a single-player experience featuring a cast of memorable, badass characters on an unforgettable adventure. The concept was there as seen in the trailer, and this can still be salvaged and flipped because the structure is still there. For $400,000,000... I would sure as heck try to flip it.

Missed Opportunities

Imagine the blockbuster single-player title with a compelling storyline that this could have been. It’s disheartening to see so much investment go down the drain when this could have been a viable alternative. While I’m being vague (unless Sony pays for more details), it’s clear that a different approach could have yielded better results. Again, it doesn't have to be over (but make it download only).

Balancing online and Single-Player Elements

There could have been an aspect of the game that allowed for competitive online play, but... a full-blown PvP game in today’s saturated market, especially with numerous solid free-to-play options, was a risky move. I would have been surprised if it succeeded. I wouldn't even add PvP personally, competition would be served up in a different way.

A Different Perspective

This isn’t coming from the angle of a hater. $400,000,000 is a lot (like aloooooottttt) of freaking money to lose. The reaction from gamers might have been different if I had been involved in the decision-making process regarding the genre and direction of the game though and I highly doubt they'd be sitting in discount bins for $1. I can say that with a straight face. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can make all the difference.

Overall, Sony’s Concord game had potential, but a different approach might have led to a more successful outcome. The assets can and should be whipped up to make single player magic, everything doesn't have to be multiplayer and this didn't have to be a... PvP hero shooter. It's okay to salvage or give it away.

 + Sophi 

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Dear Developers: How to Create an Indie Game Using Udemy Courses and Unreal Engine - A Step-by-Step Guide

Indie development in 2026 looks very different on the surface—but the core struggles remain the same.

Now more than ever, indie developers are getting their well-deserved recognition. Without the vast resources and budgets of larger game developers, indie creators rely on creativity and hard work, hoping gamers will embrace their games. When that happens, it’s a sigh of relief, as the success of a game can change developers’ lives.

That’s why we promote affordable courses that help aspiring developers create their own games. Whether you’re a solo developer or part of a team of friends, classmates, or like-minded strangers with a solid contract, you can tap into your dreams without waiting for established game studios to open their doors. Gamers are open to great games from indie teams, and if your game is awesome, it will get the love it deserves if it doesn't fly under the radar. So, salute to the indie developers out there, and for the rest of you aspiring to take that step.. be motivated by this Indie World Showcase + Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase:

 Utilize the information below, and we look forward to checking out your game one day! 

 A Reality Check for New Indie Developers 

• Finish a tiny project first

• Build in public early (screenshots, dev logs)

• Plan marketing before your game is done

• Don’t rely on storefront algorithms to save you

• Treat scope like a budget — once it’s gone, it’s gone

  
  

 Step 1: Learn the Basics with Udemy Courses 

Udemy offers a variety of courses that can help you get started with game development. Here are some top recommendations:

1. Unreal Engine 5: The Complete Beginner’s Course: This course covers the fundamentals of game development using Unreal Engine 5. By the end of the course, you’ll have built an entire demo game from scratch.
2. Unreal Engine 5 C++ Developer: Learn C++ & Make Video Games: Learn how to create and mod video games using Unreal Engine 5, even if you’re a complete beginner.
3. Unreal Engine 5 Megacourse: Create Games in UE5 & Blender: This course covers everything you need to know to get started in creating your own game in Unreal Engine, including pre-production, prototyping gameplay, and creating finalized props and characters in Blender.

 Step 2: Master Unreal Engine 

Unreal Engine is a powerful tool used by both AAA studios and indie developers worldwide. Here are some steps to master it:

1. Understand the Interface: Familiarize yourself with the Unreal Engine Editor and its components. Learn how to navigate and customize the interface to suit your workflow.
2. Learn Blueprints: Blueprints are Unreal Engine’s visual scripting system. They allow you to create game logic without writing code. Start with basic Blueprints and gradually move to more complex ones.
3. Practice with Projects: Apply what you’ve learned by working on small projects. This hands-on experience is crucial for mastering Unreal Engine.

 Step 3: Upgrade Your Hardware 

Creating an indie game requires a solid hardware setup to ensure smooth development and testing. This will cost a lot less than tuition when it comes to persuing a degree related to game development, and this is actually your equipment to keep and create games on. Here are the essential hardware components you’ll need:

Processor (CPU): A powerful CPU is crucial for handling the complex tasks involved in game development, such as compiling code, rendering graphics, and running simulations.

• Intel Core i7 or i9: These processors offer excellent performance for most game development tasks.

• AMD Ryzen 7 or 9: Known for their multi-threading capabilities these CPUs are great for handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
  
  

Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU is essential for rendering high-quality graphics and running game engines efficiently.

• Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 or higher: These GPUs provide excellent performance for both 2D and 3D game development.

• AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT or higher: Another great option for high-performance graphics rendering.
  
  

Memory (RAM): Sufficient RAM is necessary to handle large assets and complex scenes in your game.

• Minimum 16GB: Suitable for smaller projects and basic game development.

• We Suggest 32GB or More: Idea for larger projects and more demanding tasks. If you stay ready, you don't have to get ready.

Storage: Fast and ample storage is crucial for storing your game assets, project files, and software.

• SSD (Solid State Drive): At least 512GB for the operating system and software, plus an additional 1TB or more for project storage. SSDs offer faster load times and better performance compared to traditional HDDs. They're more afforable now, so it wouldn't be a stretch to get a good one at a "solid" price. :p

Monitor: A high-resolution monitor helps you see your game in detail and makes development easier.

• 27-inch or larger: Provided ample screen space for multitasking. Aim for two.

• 4K resolution: Offers sharp and clear visuals, which is especially useful for detailed work. You want to see your 4K game if you're presenting it as a title with 4K visiuals.

Peripherals: Quality peripherals can enhance your development experience.

• Mechanical Keyboard: For comfortable and efficient typing.

• Precision Mouse: For accurate control and navigation.

• Graphics Tablet: Useful for artists working on game assets and textures. There are some great options that are affordable and actually rival the biggest names around, so don't sleep on options like Xencelabs.

Backup Solutions: Regular backups are essential to prevent data loss.

• External Hard Drives: For manual backups.

• Cloud Storage: For automatic backups.

 Step 4: Develop Your Game 

Once you have a solid understanding of Unreal Engine, it’s time to start developing your game:

1. Pre-Production: Plan your game. Define the concept, story, characters, and gameplay mechanics. Create a game design document to guide your development process.
2. Prototyping: Build a prototype of your game. Focus on core gameplay mechanics and test them to ensure they are fun and engaging.
3. Production: Develop the full game. Create assets, implement gameplay features, and continuously test and refine your game.
4. Polishing: Focus on polishing your game. Improve graphics, fix bugs, and optimize performance to ensure a smooth gaming experience.

Step 5: Launch and Market Your Game

After developing your game, the next step is to launch and market it:

1. Create a Marketing Plan: Define your target audience and create a marketing plan to reach them. Use social media, gaming forums, and other platforms to promote your game.
2. Launch on Platforms: Choose the right platforms to launch your game, such as Steam, Epic Games Store, or itch.io.
3. Engage with the Community: Build a community around your game. Engage with players, gather feedback, and continuously improve your game based on their input.

Creating an indie game is a challenging but rewarding journey. By following these steps and utilizing resources like Udemy courses and Unreal Engine, you can turn your game development dreams into reality. Just know that challenges are real, but luck favors the prepared. Remember, the indie game community is supportive, and gamers are always on the lookout for great games, regardless of their humble beginnings.

So, plan and proceed, and we look forward to playing your game one day!

 + Sophi 

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