Introducing Ludocene: A Game-Changing App for Gamers
In an age where gamers often find themselves inundated with countless titles, the quest to find the perfect game can be overwhelming. With nearly 19,000 new games debuting in 2024 across various platforms and frequent digital sales, players frequently struggle to connect with games that genuinely interest them. To bridge this gap, journalist Andy Robertson has launched an innovative solution: Ludocene.
A New Approach to Game Recommendations
Ludocene takes a novel angle on game discovery by functioning like a dating app for gamers, matching users with titles tailored to their preferences rather than just the most popular options. “There’s a better way to connect people to games rather than just what’s popular or what the algorithm is serving,” says Robertson. This app aims to reveal lesser-known gems that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The Foundation of Ludocene
Robertson, who previously created the Family Gaming Database—a resource for parents seeking suitable games for their children—already possessed a rich inventory of lesser-known games to populate Ludocene. The app features a visually engaging card format to showcase these titles, where each card displays gameplay footage and essential information, allowing users to swipe through and discover new favorites.
Functionality and User Experience
Each game card in Ludocene provides a comprehensive overview, featuring gameplay footage, a summary, genre details, platform availability, and more. As users input games they’ve enjoyed in the past, the app curates a list of recommendations based on gameplay characteristics like genre and visual style. For instance, a fan of adventure games will be presented with similar options tailored to their taste.
The ace in its hand is the addition of paid experts to help curate your matches.
The Role of Experts
One of the standout features of Ludocene is its collaboration with a network of industry professionals, including journalists, streamers, and podcasters. These experts contribute curated game cards based on their preferences, enriching the recommendation process. Users can select their favorite experts, allowing the app to refine suggestions even further based on shared tastes.
A Commitment to Accessibility
Designed as a free app, Ludocene aims to maintain a user-friendly interface without advertisements, ensuring it remains accessible to a wide audience. Funded through an ongoing Kickstarter campaign, Ludocene will first launch as a web app, followed by a dedicated mobile version six months post-funding. “It being free is very important,” Robertson emphasizes, highlighting the drive to eliminate barriers and jargon as much as possible.
Conclusion
As gamers increasingly seek new experiences beyond mainstream titles, Ludocene offers a refreshing way to discover games that resonate with individual tastes. With its unique matchmaking approach and expert curation, the app stands poised to redefine how players engage with the vast array of options in today’s gaming landscape.