Alexander Thumm
Position: Founder and CEO
Company: Lamplight Forest
Location: Adelaide, South Australia
LinkedIn Profile: [Dr Alexander Thumm - Octoverse Studios](https://au.linkedin.com/in/althumm)
Twitter Profile: [Alexander Thumm (@al_thumm)](https://twitter.com/al_thumm)
Personal Website: [alexanderthumm.com](http://alexanderthumm.com/about.html)
Professional Overview
Alexander Thumm is a multi-disciplinary artist and the founding CEO of Lamplight Forest, a game development studio based in Adelaide, South Australia. He also leads the micro-studio Orchid of Redemption, which operates under Lamplight Forest. He holds a PhD in Game Design and Sonic Arts and has a rich background in game design, coding, and art direction.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Dr Alexander Thumm has been instrumental in creating all game design, coding, and art direction for Lamplight Forest's projects for the past 8 years.
- He serves as the Creative Lead on projects like Joon Shining and Pallas of Vines.
- In addition to his executive role, Alexander is actively involved in game design consulting.
Key Projects
1. Pallas of Vines:
- Status: Work In Progress
- Description: A revolutionary performance game exploring shared identities and nested worlds.
2. Joon Shining:
- Description: An award-winning golf-like platformer with a fantasy twist, combining traditional golf & mini-golf with elements of puzzle platforming.
3. The Lifetime:
- Description: A puzzle platformer Metroidvania with a unique time mechanic where leftover time from one level is carried over to the next, promoting non-linear gameplay.
4. The Wakers:
- Description: A point-and-click adventure with unique level-based gameplay featuring magical machinery, narrative adventure elements, and an interconnected world of puzzles.
Past Accomplishments
- Chameleon Wake (2014): A hybrid game/composition project involving acoustic performers and interactive musical soundscapes.
- Crescent Rain (2013): A triple-album of panoramic electronic improvisations.
- In Sound Surrounds (2013): A laptop improvisation project documented during travels around Australia.
- Streamland (2012): A sampling and improvisation project involving solo performer recordings.
- Earthbound (2008): First solo album presenting synaesthetic storytelling through contrasting environments.
Orchid of Redemption Projects
- Under Orchid of Redemption, Alexander has developed multiple innovative game concepts that emphasize non-violence and minimum lovable product principles. Notable projects include The Lifetime, Joon Shining, and The Wakers.
Public Engagement and Industry Participation
- Conferences and Expos: Alexander has presented his work at various professional-focused game conferences like Unite L.A and public conventions including PAX Australia. These events provide platforms for connecting with gamers and receiving real-time feedback.
Professional Interests
- Alexander Thumm focuses on integrating video games, music, visual arts, and narrative into interactive storytelling experiences.
- He emphasizes co-creative play and aims to develop games that offer rich, multi-sensory experiences.
- His work aligns with the indie game ethos, where innovation, minimalism, and non-violence play crucial roles in design and development.
Recent Interviews and Media Presence
- Interview with SyndicateY (Oct 18, 2022): Detailed talk about his work, development process, and future projects.
- Social Media Engagement: Active on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and has a personal website where he shares insights about his projects and research.
Alexander Thumm represents a blend of creative vision and technical expertise, positioning himself as a thought leader in the niche of experimental and performance-based video games. His work's consistency and innovation make him a valuable contact for sales and collaborative opportunities within the game development and creative industries.
