In a captivating interview with Mike Bilder, the CEO of Jackbox Games, we dive into the remarkable journey of the company as it celebrates ten years of its groundbreaking Party Packs. In a world where apps were the norm, Bilder reveals how Jackbox’s decision to let players use their smartphones as controllers changed the game forever.

The Birth of a Game-Changer

Jackbox Games, initially founded in 1989 as Learn Television, underwent several transformations before finding its niche as a creator of party games. With a rich history, the company first made waves in the ‘90s with the trivia sensation, *You Don't Know Jack*. However, the transition to console gaming posed a significant challenge.

Bilder explained that in the early days of digital gaming, getting players to download an app was a major barrier. In a moment of inspiration, Jackbox decided to forgo traditional apps in favor of a browser-based solution. The shift coincided with the explosion of couch co-op gaming, sparked by the popularity of the Nintendo Wii, which allowed Jackbox to tap into a burgeoning market for engaging party games.

Creating Games That Get Laughs

Over the years, Jackbox has developed a unique approach to game creation. Every year, the entire studio is encouraged to pitch game ideas, democratizing the creative process. Each pitch undergoes a rigorous vetting process, ultimately leading to various outcomes: greenlit, needs improvement, or rejected.

"We focus on minimizing barriers to access," said Bilder. "We want as many people as possible to join the fun without the hassle of downloading apps." This philosophy is not only what propelled Jackbox to success but has also allowed for the creation of interactive and hilarious games like *Quiplash*.

The Legacy of Quiplash

When asked about the most popular game in the Jackbox lineup, Bilder instantly cited *Quiplash*. The game was born from a simple prototype that evolved into a phenomenal party game, known for its quick and accessible humor. The team recognized early on that a game is only successful if it can prompt laughter—"Time to laughter is like zero," Bilder recounted.

A Deep Comedy Connection

One major advantage that Jackbox has is its connections to Chicago's vibrant comedy scene. Many of the voices and writers for Jackbox games have roots in institutions such as Second City or ImprovOlympics. This commitment to comedy talent infuses the games with a specific brand of humor that resonates with players.

From Concept to Tee K.O.

Bilder also shared a glimpse into one of Jackbox's most innovative ideas: the ability to print custom-made T-shirts directly from the game *Tee K.O.*. This concept was initially a fun challenge proposed to interns, leading to a successful print-on-demand system that continues to be a novelty for fans. Laughingly, he added, “Some designs get so wild they should never see the light of day!”

What’s Next for Jackbox?

Looking ahead, Jackbox Games remains committed to evolving its gaming experiences. With the rise of streaming platforms like Twitch, the company's inclusion of audience modes— which allow thousands of online participants to join the fun— has further solidified its place in gaming culture.

As Mike Bilder wrapped up the conversation, he confirmed Jackbox's mission: "We’re here to create moments of joy and laughter, and we plan to keep that going for years to come.”

In the ever-expanding world of video games, Jackbox Games stands out as a shining example of innovation, fun, and community. The decade-long journey not only showcases the company’s resilience but also its dedication to bringing people together, one laugh at a time.

If you’ve ever wondered why your friends can’t stop playing *Quiplash* or why you keep laughing during family game night, now you know—the magic lies in the frictionless design and pure comedic genius that Jackbox Games has mastered. Get ready for a future full of new games and endless laughter!