Sean at Nordic Game, 2025
Founders
Sean Carton is an expert in lane-pushing games, and a former modder whose work includes Dota Outland (2003) and Rise of Winterchill (2007). During these projects, he pioneered many design features now seen in commercial titles — including vector-targeting and merc camps.
He also spent 10+ years at CareersPortal.ie, Ireland's national career guidance resource which supports learners and educators in advancing career goals.
He authors the website Lane-Pushing Games, the leading game design and history resource in its genre.
He is an ambassador for Women in Games, and an associate member of the Esports Research Network.
Advisory Board
Guido Schmidt is Director of Design at Rovio, former Executive Producer at Remedy, and former Game Director at Paradox Interactive. He has 20+ years industry experience and is the author of Game Design: Impossible, a book about leadership and production in the game industry.
Dr. Julia Hiltscher has 20 years experience running esports events and initiatives at ESL Faceit Group. She is a former professional gamer, a devcom speaker, and is passionate about environmental sustainability. She is a founding member of the Esports Research Network.