Calendar
The Future of Gaming
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
J. Ayo Akinyele
CEO, Bolt Labs
Robert Nashak
Professor, USC Games and UPenn (ex- EA, Yahoo, Survios, Glu)
Cecil Kim
Studio Art Director, That Game Company
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.