Inside ‘Athletic Games’: An Interview With Jamaican Game Developer Josh-Tim Allen

Did you know that Jamaicans make video games? I’d wager that you didn’t. The truth is, few people know about the many games made by Jamaicans. I’m also willing to bet that you didn’t know that there is a Jamaican Game Developers Society. If you are interested in learning game development, definitely check them out and tell them that Jason sent you.

This article features an interview with Josh-Tim Allen, the founder of the Popular Mobile Game ‘Athletic Games’. I asked Josh a variety of questions about the game, how he got started, and more! Enjoy!

Interview with Josh-Tim Allen

The interview follows a question-and-answer format. I decided to write out my questions, then have the full audio clips played.

Jason: How did you come up with the name ‘Athletic Games’?

Josh:

Jason: Oh, you’re a former Summer Games player like myself. For everyone’s benefit, tell us about Summer Games.

Josh:

Jason: When was ‘Athletic Games’ made? Also, how old is the game?

Josh:

Jason: Do your players know the mastermind behind this game is a Jamaican?

Josh:

Jason: Are there any plans to add a story mode? For example, you start off as a young boy/girl from rural Jamaica, then you rise to becoming an Olympic Gold Medalist.

Josh:

Jason: Does the gear in-game make a difference? Does it allow me to run faster?

Josh:

Jason: Do you have plans to create a global leaderboard?

Josh:

Jason: Can you give us an estimate regarding when this online leaderboard and global ranking will be complete?

Josh:

Jason: Do you have plans to create in-game chat?

Josh:

Jason: What is the maximum number of Athletes that I can create?

Josh:

Jason: Is there an ‘efficient’ way for me to tap so that I run faster in events?

Josh:

Jason: What does that red line represent? You know the one in your running gauge?

Josh:

Jason: Does my athlete’s muscle, fat, height, or thinness affect my speed? What’s the ideal build?

Josh:

Jason: Does it matter if I dip at the line early?

Josh:

Jason: When will I be able to make my character bald?

Josh:

Jason: Does this game have online and local multiplayer? Tell me how those work. Also, can Android users only play multiplayer with other Android users?

Josh:

Jason: I saw some players complain that online multiplayer isn’t working. Can you say whether or not this is true?

Josh:

Jason: What can you tell me about the single player modes?

Josh:

Jason: Are there any plans for an ‘ad-less’ paid version of the game?

Josh:

Jason: Can I use real money to buy more coins?

Josh:

Jason: What can I use coins to buy in-game?

Josh:

Jason: I noticed that this game uses ads. Is there a more direct way to support the game? For example, in-app purchases or a HandyPay Donation Link on the website?

Josh:

Jason: Are there any plans to release Athletic Games on PC, PlayStation, Nintendo, or Xbox?

Josh:

Jason: When can players expect the next game update?

Josh:

Jason: Is there a chance that I can hear Jamaican music, for example, dancehall, play in Athletic Games?

Josh:

Jason: What are your PBs(Personal Bests) for each event?

Josh:

Jason: Is this the first ‘official’ game you ever made? If yes, why choose this as your first?

Josh:

Jason: How long have you been making games?

Josh:

Jason: Is there a Jamaican Game Developers Association? If yes, are you a member?

Josh:

Jason: Would you like to give a shoutout to a Jamaican Game Developer? Or highlight a Jamaican Game Developer doing great things?

Josh:

Jason: What did you use to create this game? Also, would you recommend it to beginners?

Josh:

Jason: Can you tell me how much money this game has made in its lifetime? Also, how much on average do you make monthly?

Josh:

Jason: What are your plans for Athletic Games?

Josh:

Jason: What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a game developer? Also, what if someone wants to create games full-time? Would you encourage them to take that path?

Josh:

Jason: Do you believe that one is born an athlete, or does one become an athlete through hard work?

Josh:

Jason: Are you a track and field fan?

Josh:

Jason: Are there any final words that you would like to tell players of Athletic Games? Or just anything final you would like to say?

Josh:

Start Small

I had a great time interviewing Josh. He answered the questions well and provided additional information. I know many of you must have found the interview insightful. Several people from my university cohort were interested in game development. Sadly, most gave up on that dream and settled for an adjacent role.

I would love to see the local game development industry get more public and private sector support. If the global game industry is worth US $188 billion, capturing just 1% of that market equals US $1.88 billion. Because Jamaica’s entire nominal economic output is roughly US $22 billion, that single 1% sliver of the gaming market would expand our entire national GDP by a massive 8.5%. This move would diversify our economy away from services and create new job opportunities.

If you’re interested in game development, start small. Your first game doesn’t have to be massive. And just like Josh said, there may be a market for your game idea. Are you currently working on a game? I would love to hear about it in the comments section. Know of any Jamaican game developers or games? Comment them aswell.

If you’re an Athletic Games Player, I would love to know your PBs(personal bests). Also, if you have suggestions for Josh, post them in the comments section.

About Author

Jason Williams

Jason Williams is a Software Developer, Web3 Enthusiast, Financial Literacy Advocate, and lover of books. He spends a lot of his time reading up on topics such as A.I., Economics, Blockchain Technology, and general business news. Like my work? Consider buying me a coffee by visiting https://buymeacoffee.com/jacen007 or selecting the coffee mug on the screen.

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