When it comes to understanding what shapes the habits of a gaming industry leader, a closer look at their daily computing rituals can be telling. Stephen Kick, CEO of Nightdive Studios, balances his time between remastering classics and enjoying a diverse roster of games with his family. His approach to gaming illustrates not only professional dedication but also the role games play in family bonding and personal development. These candid reflections highlight both the nostalgia and modern habits that blend into his everyday digital life.
Other interviews and past articles exploring Kick’s gaming tastes often focused exclusively on his restoration of iconic titles, such as System Shock or Quake. Recent discussions, however, reveal more about his recreational gaming choices and draw attention to his use of gaming for family activities and personal growth. Nightdive Studios’ work has been celebrated, but less coverage has delved into Kick’s current favorite games and how they fit into his daily routine. By comparing this with earlier features, it becomes clear that Kick’s genuine enthusiasm for games predates and fuels his work as a preservationist.
What drives Stephen Kick’s current gaming routine?
Stephen Kick has played Dota 2 for over a decade, marking it as his go-to title for relaxation and social interaction. He first discovered the game through a Valve-sponsored design competition, which required players to create in-game content for Dota 2. Despite not winning, Kick credits this experience with drawing him into the community and converting the game into a regular family activity.
“Maybe if I win, I can make some extra money. That was basically my gateway into it,”
he reflected, underscoring the game’s lasting impact on his life.
Why does he return to classic and roguelike games?
Kick maintains an affinity for classic titles, with Doom and Doom II permanently installed on his system. His professional ties to these games only reinforce their significance in his personal history. Roguelike shooters like Witchfire, currently in early access, have also captured his interest, largely due to their interplay of repetition, adaptation, and evolving challenges.
Which titles and software does he consider indispensable?
Despite occasionally uninstalling Dota 2 when competition became overwhelming, Kick admits that games like Plants vs Zombies remain permanently on his devices due to the enjoyment they provide his family. He strives to use gaming as a tool for strategic learning and collaboration with his son, emphasizing the social significance of team-based play. In terms of non-gaming software, Kick relies heavily on Photoshop—integral to both his creative profession and personal relaxation. As he puts it,
“I create a lot of artwork just on my own, just for fun.”
Kick’s organized desktop provides a window into his workflow: gaming shortcuts kept tidy on one side, ongoing creative projects on the other. This structure supports both efficient leisure and productive design sessions. The balance between work and play, as well as the inclusion of family in his gaming habits, shows how personal experience and professional interests often overlap for industry figures.
For those interested in blending nostalgia, continuous learning, and family engagement into their digital lives, Stephen Kick’s approach offers practical insights. Maintaining access to favorite classic titles can foster both historical appreciation and interpersonal connection. Integrating creative software into everyday use enables not only productivity but also a means of relaxation and self-expression. Consistent organization of digital workspaces further supports these activities. Ultimately, individual gaming routines shaped by personal and familial priorities can coexist productively with professional demands.
