Welcome back to season two of Game Wise, where we are highlighting Australian success stories, aimed at inspiring the next generation of game makers.

This episode is a frank discussion with Jens and Bryce Szandro, CEO and Founder of Paragon Interactive. Bryce and Jens explore the journey behind Bryce's career into games, from 3D art beginnings to managing a full-service game development studio.

Bryce shares key points from his career, highlights from the projects he's worked on to the people he's met, and how sometimes the best way network is to just get in front of people, and get remembered as "that Aussie Guy".

This is yet another episode in our series highlighting Australian success stories, aimed at inspiring the next generation of game makers.

In this episode, Jens speaks with Jay Topping, Co-Founder and Creative Director of WeForge Studios, about the journey behind the co-op horror game Macabre. Starting as a lockdown project between friends with no prior games industry experience, WeForge gradually built a community around the game through continuous iteration, transparent communication and a deep understanding of audience engagement. Jay shares lessons on validating ideas early, using marketing to inform development, running a successful Kickstarter campaign, and navigating the challenges of self-publishing and launching an indie game. It’s an honest conversation about the realities of building a studio from scratch, and the persistence, adaptability and authenticity required along the way.

In this special episode of Game Wise, Jens sits down with Peter Xi, Partner at RSM specialising in R&D Tax and Government Incentives, and Roisin Arkwright, National Tax Technical Director at RSM, to unpack what the latest Federal Budget means for Australian game studios. Together, they explore the proposed changes to the R&D Tax Incentive, including the shift toward “high-intensity” R&D, the removal of supporting activities, and what studios should start doing now to prepare for the changes expected from 2028 onwards.

The discussion also dives into the broader investment landscape, including the proposed capital gains tax reforms and what they could mean for founders, investors, and early-stage studios seeking funding. Along the way, the episode offers practical guidance on documentation, structuring, compliance, runway management, and how studios can make the most of existing incentives and tax concessions.