FUTUREPROOF.
Welcome to FUTUREPROOF. We're the podcast that delves into the future. From Augmented Reality to Artificial Intelligence to Smart Cities to Internet of Things to Virtual Reality, we speak with some of the sharpest minds to better help you understand what the next few years may look like.Brought to you by author Jeremy Goldman (Going Social, Getting to Like).For booking inquiries: vie@futureproofshow.com
FUTUREPROOF.
The New Rules of Consumer Behavior, Powered by Gaming (ft. author Bastian Bergmann)
Gaming isn’t just entertainment anymore—it’s the new frontier of consumer engagement. With more than three billion players worldwide and brands from Peloton to Burberry using game mechanics to build loyalty, gaming has become a mainstream business strategy.
In this episode of FUTUREPROOF., Bastian Bergmann, co-founder and COO of Solsten, explains why every company—not just game studios—needs to think like a game designer. He draws from his new book Press Play and his work with Solsten, which helps brands understand audiences on a psychological level to create immersive, resonant experiences.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🎮 Why gaming is becoming a must-have strategy for every industry
🎮 How luxury brands, fitness companies, and even media outlets are using play to connect with customers
🎮 The psychology of play and why it unlocks deeper loyalty than ads alone
🎮 Practical entry points for companies curious about gaming without overcommitting
🎮 How audience intelligence and psychology fuel better design and better business outcomes
Links & Resources:
- Bastian’s book: Press Play: Why Every Company Needs a Gaming Strategy (Harvard Business Review Press, Sept 9, 2025)
- Solsten: solsten.io
- Follow Bastian on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bastianbergmann