Opportunities in Connected Ecosystems

With more than three billion active global players and advancements in cloud computing, player content creation, and the evolution of distribution channels, the gaming industry is at an inflection point. Signals of the massive opportunities ahead include the widespread adoption of game engines such as Unity and Unreal, M&A activities like Microsoft’s $68B acquisition of Blizzard, the rapid growth of player networks like Twitch and Steam Engine, and the emergence of specialized venture funds like A16z’s $600M GAMES FUND ONE. The scope for investors and startups is immense.

​Our speakers will focus on three foundations shaping the next phase of gaming technology: game transactions, privacy and security; authorship, generative AI, and new IP models; and decentralization, distribution, and extended gameplay. After the panel discussion there will be audience Q&A along with networking afterward.

 

Speakers

 

Ed Zobrist

​Former Head of Publishing, Epic Games and President, Sierra Online

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​J. Ayo Akinyele

​CEO, Bolt Labs

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​Robert Nashak

​Professor, USC Games and UPenn (ex- EA, Yahoo, Survios, Glu)

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​Cecil Kim

​Studio Art Director, That Game Company

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Producers

 

Robbie Nock

AVP, Entrepreneurship & Professional Practice

ArtCenter College of Design

 

Joe Sichta

CEO

VRI Studios

 

Coffee and Networking begin at 8:00 am.

Free Parking Underground: Right turn at signal on east side of Cahill (turn right at tennis courts); parking lot entrance 75 yards on right.