In this episode of Type Speaks, Rae sits down with writer, YouTuber, and longtime games critic Quintin Smith (Quinns) for a wide-ranging conversation about play, culture, criticism, and the wonderfully weird worlds we build through games. From the shifting norms of reviewing video games, board games, and TTRPGs to the evolution of horror games, game-lore obsession, and the influence of streaming culture, Rae and Quinns explore how players engage with design, and how critics navigate communities that are passionate, protective, and sometimes a little spicy. They dig into why role-playing games feel so personal, how “made-for-Twitch” jump-scare horror shapes the market, the strange state of children’s games and platforms like Roblox, and why educational design deserves as much aesthetic care as any entertainment medium. They even manage to discuss Auburn’s beloved Aubie, TikTok algorithms, Jim Henson, and which mermaid powers best reflect one’s creative soul.
What is Type Speaks?
What is design? Who does it? And, more importantly, how and why do they do what they do?
From type and color to everyday objects and the games we play with friends, guests share their perspectives on the power of design. Through honest conversations, you’ll hear about the challenges and, the breakthroughs, and how design goes beyond looking good. It’s about solving problems…
Or, put simply: these are people Rae wants to talk to, and now you get to hear from them too!
Join host Rae on Type Speaks for conversations with the people behind the design.