Fandom as Ocean: Building Authentic Communities for Art-Forward Games (w/ Bria Davis)

What does it really take to build a sustainable community around experimental games? In this essential conversation, we sit down with Bria Davis, Community Director at Young Horses, to explore the intricate dynamics of gaming communities and what art-forward creators need to know before diving in.

Bria brings a unique perspective to community building, having worked her way from Discord moderator to leading community strategy for some of gaming's most innovative studios. Her journey through projects like the cultural phenomenon Blaseball offers invaluable insights for creators bridging art and gaming audiences.

Key insights for experimental game creators:

• Why fandom is like an ocean—beautiful but requiring respect and careful navigation
• The crucial differences between Discord and Twitch communities and how they serve different creative goals
• How "intimate publics" form around shared media consumption and why understanding this matters for your artistic vision
• Practical strategies for launching your first gaming community without losing creative control
• Why the loudest voices aren't always the ones worth listening to

Whether you're preparing for your first Steam release or cultivating an audience for your interactive art project, this conversation reveals how authentic community building can amplify your creative vision while maintaining artistic integrity.

Bria's expertise spans community health, cultural engagement, and the delicate balance between creative expression and audience development—making this a must-listen for any creator serious about finding their people in the gaming space.

This episode was hosted by Jamin Warren. Music was provided by Lusine.

Twofivesix is a strategic consultancy that helps artists and cultural organizations engage with gamers. Founder and CEO Jamin Warren speaks to experts at the intersection of game-based art and marketing to help you find your audience.