Why we make games

Diagnostic Gaming was born from a life-long love of gaming and a desire to create new outlets for creativity, imagination, strategic thinking, and fierce competition. We at Diagnostic Gaming believe that some of life’s greatest memories are formed from a congregation of friends and family meeting around the gaming table for friendly competition and challenging adventures. We strive to bring you games that will challenge your intellect while also providing experiences to remember for a lifetime with those who matter the most to you. 

Our philosophy

Pillar 1

Quick to learn:

Clear rules and table-ready references so you can learn quickly.

Pillar 2

Strategic thinking:

Tight loops and tactical choices that reward intuition and timing.

Pillar 3

Built to replay:

Shuffles, setups, and powers that remix every session.

The team

Michael Maldonado

Founder, Lead Designer

Michael Maldonado

Michael Maldonado is the creator of Diagnostic Gaming. As a lifelong avid gamer across a myriad of platforms and genres, Michael founded Diagnostic Gaming as a way to develop new gaming experiences in the hopes of helping others create enduring memories with family and friends together around a table.  

Michael obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University before attending Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine where he received his Medical Doctorate along with a plethora of honors and awards. Afterwards he completed his Residency in Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology at VCU Health followed by a Fellowship in Neuroradiology at UVA Health. He currently practices medicine as a private practice neuroradiologist in Virginia. Michael was inspired to pursue medicine and then radiology because both required a heavy dose of critical thinking and problem solving and always felt akin to the puzzle solving and strategy required in some of his favorite game genres. 

Having never lost his love of gaming, Michael felt that creating Diagnostic Gaming would be the perfect way to blend his passion for gaming with his professional skill sets. 

Stay in the loop

Join our list for early access, print‑and‑play files, and launch discounts. We respect your inbox, unsubscribe anytime.

We’ll never share your email. One to two updates per month.

News & events

  • Prototype Night: Downtown playtest, Sept 14
  • Synapse print‑and‑play v0.4 now available
  • Cultz closed alpha signups opening soon