‘We Want to Have Games that People Will Remember Forever’: The BIG Show with Mike DeLaet

Why It Matters

DeLaet’s blend of high‑profile deals and a legacy‑focused game philosophy signals where the industry’s growth and player loyalty strategies are heading.

Key Takeaways

• DeLaet helped Ares raise $70M Series A funding
• He oversaw Scopely’s $4.9B sale to Savvy Games
• Emphasizes creating games that endure for decades
• Podcast blends business insight with personal gamer passion
• Industry shifting toward legacy‑focused game design

Pulse Analysis

The BIG Show podcast has become a go‑to venue for gaming executives to share both hard‑won business lessons and the personal motivations that drive their creative decisions. Mike DeLaet, president of Ares Interactive, exemplifies this dual narrative. Known for orchestrating Ares’s $70 million Series A financing and later serving as COO of Scopely during its $4.9 billion acquisition, DeLaet brings a rare mix of financial acumen and product passion. His appearance underscores how high‑stakes deals are increasingly tied to a vision of lasting player impact, a shift that resonates with investors seeking sustainable revenue streams beyond short‑term hits.

Beyond the balance sheet, DeLaet’s emphasis on “games that people will remember forever” taps into a broader industry trend: leveraging nostalgia and long‑term engagement to boost player retention. Titles like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda have demonstrated that emotional resonance can translate into decades‑long franchise value. Modern studios are therefore prioritizing design choices that foster deep, repeatable experiences, from live‑service ecosystems to narrative depth that rewards long‑term play. This legacy‑centric approach not only differentiates products in a crowded market but also creates ancillary revenue opportunities through merchandise, media extensions, and community‑driven content.

The podcast format itself is reshaping knowledge sharing within the gaming sector. By offering an informal, after‑hours setting, the BIG Show allows leaders to discuss strategic pivots, cultural influences, and emerging technologies without the constraints of a press release. As more executives like DeLaet join the conversation, the industry gains a richer, more nuanced understanding of how financing, acquisitions, and creative ambition intersect. For stakeholders watching the 2026 horizon, these insights hint at a future where financial muscle supports games designed to become cultural touchstones, driving both shareholder value and enduring fan loyalty.