“My Background in Physics and Coding Gives Me a Superpower”
As a creative producer at Playsense, Sergey Dmitrenko brings stories to life through innovative gaming experiences. Based in Georgia, his journey into gaming production is fueled by a passion for storytelling and an eye for detail, crafting projects that truly resonate with audiences. In this episode of Lifesense: Personalities, we explore Sergey’s creative process, his favorite games that inspired his career, and how he balances the demands of the gaming industry with his personal life.
You’ve been in Georgia since the start of the year, right? What made Georgia the perfect fit for you?
Actually, I had plans to move to Poland, but the visa process was tougher than expected. I looked at a few other places like Serbia and Montenegro, but Georgia just felt right. The combination of the climate, the beautiful nature — especially the mountains — and how friendly the people are here sealed the deal. I’ve been able to dive into hiking and exploring the outdoors, which I love doing on weekends.
Before Wargaming, you were directing music videos, commercials, and short films. How did that diverse background shape your role at Playsense?
You’re right. My journey into video editing and producing started long before Wargaming. Producing naturally ran alongside my directing work. I also have a background in physics and coding, which I think gives me a bit of a ‘superpower’ — I can navigate both technical and creative concepts with ease. This mix of skills made my transition to Wargaming in 2017 feel natural.
At Wargaming, I was able to combine my directing and technical knowledge, but with a stronger focus on production. In both Wargaming and now at Playsense, the producer’s role involves balancing managerial responsibilities with creative direction. After spending five years at Wargaming and then a spin-off, I was drawn to Playsense because of its innovative concept. I believed in it from the start, which made joining the team an easy decision.
How do those experiences influence your approach now at Playsense?
They’ve definitely shaped me in significant ways. At Playsense, I strive to foster a collaborative environment where creativity can truly thrive. I draw on my past experiences — both the challenges I’ve faced and the successes I’ve achieved — to guide the team toward growth and innovation. And, you know, each experience has provided valuable lessons that inform my decisions and interactions with the team.
Balancing the producer’s role with creative direction is essential for our success, and those skills are even more important here. I focus on encouraging open communication and collaboration among team members, allowing everyone to share their ideas and insights. This not only sparks creativity but also strengthens our collective vision. I’m all about using my background to build a fun space where everyone feels excited to pitch in.
Let’s talk about the gaming industry — what do you see as some of its biggest challenges right now?
The rapid pace of technological change is both exciting and challenging. It opens up so many possibilities, but it also requires constant learning and adaptation. Another challenge is maintaining authenticity while trying to engage a diverse global audience.
And how do you personally strike the right balance between creativity and the business side of things?
You know, it’s all about synergy. I believe in fostering an environment where the team feels empowered to take creative risks and think outside the box. Creativity thrives when individuals are encouraged to explore new ideas and approaches without fear of failure. However, it’s equally important to ensure that our creative endeavors remain aligned with the overarching business goals, right? This means that while we aim for innovation, we also continuously assess how our ideas can drive business success.
By keeping projects focused on delivering value, my team creates innovative campaigns that resonate deeply with our audiences and produce measurable results for the company. This dual focus helps us blend imagination with practicality, making it easier to thrive in a competitive landscape. Finding this balance means we regularly chat about our goals, ensuring our creative strategies not only inspire but also align with what we want to achieve as a business. In the end, it works!
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of Playsense and the gaming industry?
I’m thrilled about the growing potential for immersive and interactive storytelling in games. With advancements in technology, we have incredible opportunities to craft narratives that players can connect with on a deeper level. At Playsense, we’re always pushing boundaries to create engaging experiences. We’re exploring fresh ideas that allow players to influence the storyline and shape their own adventures.
Yes, the gaming industry is evolving rapidly, and it feels like we’re just beginning to tap into our full potential. With innovative tools like VR and AR, the future looks so bright! (Laughing). I’m super excited to see how we can keep leveling up our storytelling and give players epic experiences they won’t forget!
