I've had a lot of folks across all sides of the games industry reach out, eager to discuss where I see the biggest business opportunities and trends. I’ve openly and gladly shared my feedback, gut checks, and industry hot takes, all for free.
Turns out if you’re good at something, never do it for free.
Welcome to Level Cap Consulting, currently offering short-form strategy consulting, business plan reviews, white paper feedback, and even limited game evaluations. I’m keeping the scope focused and high-impact. No large research programs (for now), but plenty of sharp, honest insight.
I’m available for targeted engagements that benefit from experienced, objective insight.
~ Michael DeFreest
Custom Research
There no project too big, too small, or too bespoke. From more foundational market sizing and segmentation, to deep-dive usability testing, ethnography studies, and concept exploration and validation, we can provide insights at every step of your customers' journey. We take pride in having no black box methodologies, and approach every question with a novel creativity that can meet the scale and budget of each client
Opportunity Assessments & Game Evaluations
Surveys and focus groups are invaluable, but having partners with a deep, developer-focused understanding of game design is also key. We provide expert analysis and third-party reviews at every point in the development cycle. From design doc and prototype diligence to milestone mock reviews and competitor/market landscape planning, we can de-risk your design decisions to provide the best chance of a hit game
Internal Proficiency Development
In a GDC survey, 26% of small to mid-size developers said they wish they did more research, while a staggering 32% said they do no research at all. We can audit tools, build research roadmaps, and act as hiring advisors to help you build your in-house research team and capabilities, and connect you with the right sample and logistics partners to take research into your own hands
