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home / news / The Hot Seat Returns on March 25th: Strategy Icons and Industry Insights
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The Hot Seat Returns on March 25th: Strategy Icons and Industry Insights

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Published on March 18, 2026

The Hot Seat is back with a brand-new episode, continuing our monthly appointment designed to bring you closer to the heart of the strategy and indie gaming industry. On March 25th, we return with two of the most influential voices in the genre to discuss the challenges of modern game development.

Our first guest is Mariina Hallikainen, CEO of Colossal Order, the studio behind the genre-defining Cities: Skylines. Mariina will sit down with our Director of Publishing, Marco Minoli, to discuss how difficult it is to leave a lasting mark in a demanding genre like city builders. We’ll also dive into the challenges of meeting player expectations and explore the evolving landscape of the genre.

In the second half of the show, we are joined by Pawel Wojs, Game Director at Creative Assembly, renowned for his work on the Total War series. Pawel will provide an expert look into the technical and creative hurdles of modern game performance. From managing grand-scale strategy mechanics to the intricacies of development at a premier studio, no stone is left unturned.

These aren't just interviews; they’re open, insightful dialogues tackling the most pressing issues affecting the games you love and the industry that creates them.

Whether you’re a developer, a publisher, or a dedicated strategy fan, The Hot Seat offers a deeper understanding of the craft behind the games.

Mark your calendars: March 25th at 6 pm CET on YouTube and Twitch

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