Beyond the Algorithm: Creating When the Platforms Aren't On Your Side
From DIY platforms to captivating indie games, we're building digital spaces that can't be algorithm-ed away. While Discord eyes its IPO and the internet chaos continues, our community proves one thing: creating your own corner of the web isn't just smart—it's essential.
Hello Waffle Community,
Man, is it just me or does the world seem like it's having one hell of a dumpster fire party lately? 🔥 Yet here we are—still making cool stuff, still pouring batter into hot irons, still trying to spread a little sweetness in this increasingly bitter world.
Look, all these platforms are doing their platform-y things—changing algorithms, moving goalposts, moderating conversations in ways we can't control. It's enough to make you want to flip tables (or waffles). But here's the deal: we can't control their sandbox, but we sure as heck can build our own.
This has been my hill to die on forever, and I'm not budging. While all the decentralized platform buzz is finally catching on (took y'all long enough!), nothing beats having your own little corner of the internet where nobody can tell you your syrup-to-waffle ratio is wrong.
So let's keep building our own digital waffle houses. Let's help other indie creators do the same. And maybe—just maybe—we can serve up some genuine good in this world that desperately needs it.
Stay crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside.
Discord Exploring IPO
It was only a matter of time before the powers at be within Discord would start to think about that funding influx of going public with an IPO. We've seen it so many times from many companies going from private to public, becoming beholden to those mighty shareholders which have nothing but the best for the companies bottom line every quarter.
Emma Roth
The growth of the company goes from researching new innovative features that would make users experience better or to add something quite new that could bring in new users, now the focus shifts into how much money can be made every quarter by any means and in making that line go up.
If Discord does decide to IPO we'll see a press release following the decision of how the company culture will never changes and the user experience is their number one focus. We all know that this is only good for maybe a year following the IPO before we see massive layoffs, Nitro pricing increases, Boost pricing increases, and features either being placed behind the paywall or being completely removed entirely.
Either way you look at it, Discord in its current form will be ending. Server admins would be wise in making sure that they have a backup plan in looking for alternatives for their community to move too when that day comes.
Getting Comfy With The Fediverse
Over the past several weeks Fireside Fedi, hosted by Ozoned, has been interviewing developers, pioneers, and creators within the Fediverse on this relaxed podcast. Offering a more personal talk with his guests on how they experiencing the Fediverse or bringing initiatives into the ActivityPub world.
Have been enjoying the released episodes and learning a lot about different people and how the Fediverse shapes their lives and bringing a new or different way of thinking in regard to their projects. Not only sharing their experiences with the Fediverse but also sharing experiences from within their personal lives.
I would highly recommend checking out Fireside Fedi via their released episodes on their Peertube, Castopod (or wherever you listen to podcasts) or even catch a live stream.
GAME OF THE WEEK: CONTROL
Looking for your next gaming obsession? In our latest deep dive on 2tonwaffle.com, we explore Remedy Entertainment's supernatural action-adventure masterpiece, Control. This mind-bending journey puts you in the shoes of Jesse Faden as she navigates the shifting architecture of the Federal Bureau of Control while battling an interdimensional threat with telekinetic powers.
Our full review examines what makes this 9/10 experience so special, from its distinctive brutalist setting and satisfying paranormal combat to its bold narrative choices and connection to Remedy's larger universe. We've also included practical tips for new Directors just entering the Oldest House.
Check out the complete analysis at CONTROL: A Mind-Bending Journey Through Reality's Fractures and discover why Control stands as one of gaming's most unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a fan of supernatural storytelling, distinctive visuals, or action games that respect your intelligence, this one deserves a spot in your library.
THIS WEEK'S INDIE SPOTLIGHT: THE HEADLINERS
Looking for a game that perfectly balances terror, teamwork, and a dash of dark humor? Let me introduce you to "The Headliners" – one of the most refreshing co-op horror experiences I've stumbled across this year.
In this adrenaline-pumping adventure by KAFI, you and up to 7 friends become the journalists nobody asked for but everyone secretly wants to be. Picture this: New York City has gone full apocalypse mode with mysterious creatures roaming the streets, and instead of running away like sensible people, you're running TOWARD the danger, cameras in hand.
What makes The Headliners stand out is its brilliant risk-reward system. Each expedition costs you one of your limited press cards, and the only way to earn more is by capturing photos spectacular enough to make the front page. Should you play it safe in the shadows or risk becoming creature food for that perfect shot of your buddy being dragged into the darkness? The choice is yours, but remember – you can't publish if you're dead.
The game's gotten "Very Positive" reviews across the board, with players particularly loving the balance of genuine scares and laugh-out-loud moments that inevitably happen when someone's brilliant plan goes horribly wrong. The tension of deciding whether to save your teammate or capture their demise for more headline points creates deliciously uncomfortable moral dilemmas.
Currently 20% off until March 12th, this is the perfect time to gather your most expendable friends and discover if you've got what it takes to capture the story of the century – or become tomorrow's obituary.
Remember: In The Headliners, the real monster might just be your career ambition.
Interesting Topics
- Cog - Free and Open-Source Local Only Music Player - AppAddict
- Photo Sharing Websites - Linkage lol
- Apples and Androids - Monsterlady's Diary
- The Process of Leaving Gmail - Living Out Loud
- Top 7 Best Open Source Skype Alternatives In 2025 - It's FOSS
Wrapping Things Up...
Well folks, that's all I've got for this edition. Remember, even with the world looking like a hot mess, we're still out here making things that matter—creating ripples of good in a pond that sometimes feels pretty murky.
Keep building your own platforms, keep owning your content, and keep lifting up other creators who are doing the same. The more of us who claim our own digital territory, the less power the big platforms have over our creative lives.
Next time you feel overwhelmed by all the noise out there, just remember: what we're doing isn't just about content—it's about community. And that community we're building together is the real treasure in this whole creative journey.
Until next time, stay true to your voice, keep making awesome stuff, and don't forget to appreciate the people who support you along the way.
Cooking up more good stuff soon,
-Josh
P.S. If this newsletter brought even a tiny smile to your face, consider it a victory. And if you know someone else who could use that same smile, forward this their way. Our community always has room for more good people.
