Interview with Extra Credits' James Portnow

The Many Faces of Mr. Portnow

James Portnow is a huge presence in the video game industry and its advancement.  A professor at Digipen, a game designer (who has helped), and a writer and the main force behind the popular web series Extra Credits, James is a man of many hats and talents.

     

The Animated Extra Credits Team (From Left to Right
LeeLee, James, Daniel, and Allison)

       Extra Credits is one of the biggest resources the Internet has for game design, featuring the modulated voice of Daniel Floyd and the art of various artists, including Allison Theus and Elisa "LeeLee"Scaldaferri.  On each episode, the crew explores concepts in game design and culture, from the simplistic (like Achievements) to the complex (such as the Hero’s Journey and the relationship between story and mechanics).  With the visual aids of Scaldaferri and Theus’s art and Portnow’s writing, Extra Credits becomes a perfect learning tool for all those who are interested in the gaming industry. 

The EC team (From Left to Right: James, Dan, and Allison)

            In this interview, James and I discuss many things, including the first game to create his passion for gaming, his views on the gaming industry, and other topics.  An eloquent and in-depth interview with a man who is probably the biggest advocate for the artistic side  of video games in modern era.  Check it out!

LINKS

Interview: http://www.hulkshare.com/bcnj0tie8j5s

Mr. Portnow's Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamesPortnow

Extra Credits' Show Page: http://www.penny-arcade.com/patv/show/extra-credits

Extra Credits Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/ExtraCredits