This is an EXCELLENT talk on game design process. It is dubbed over with maybe not the best vocal talent, but it’s also subtitled so you can catch everything both reading and listening.
I really do not like most games that are mechanical engines with themes slapped on them (looking at you Wingspan and Scythe) and am much more of a fan of THEME FIRST games like Pax Renaissance, Arcs and ROOT where everything in the design is in service of the theme.
This designer takes a different tack– pushing forward an idea that a games framework (not necessarily mechanics) comes first, then the theme, then the specific mechanics. Give it a watch as 1000water’s ability to express the challenges of modern game design and innovation are top drawer.
Also if you haven’t tried E-sports Godfather and like the MOBA’s but don’t want to click a mouse until your arm falls off, it’s a great game.