Get Ready for GamesBeat Next 2024: A Hub for Industry Insights and Innovation
San Francisco, CA – The countdown is on for the highly anticipated GamesBeat Next 2024, set to unfold on October 28-29 in the vibrant city of San Francisco. This year’s conference promises to delve deep into the nuances of the gaming industry, an arena characterized by robust financial performance yet marked by unpredictable game releases and a staggering 32,000 layoffs over the past three years.
With an impressive lineup of over 600 attendees, including 150 CEOs and top-tier industry leaders, this event is poised for sell-out success. GamesBeat Next 2024 features an astounding 97 speakers, with a remarkable 65% representing diverse backgrounds, including 41% women. Attendees can look forward to 42 engaging sessions and roundtables designed to ignite discussions and facilitate networking.
One of the hallmark events is the ninth Women in Gaming Breakfast, which is expected to attract hundreds of participants. This initiative aims to foster community and provide support amidst the pressures many face in today’s demanding industry climate.
Exploring Growth and the Future of Gaming
The theme of this year’s conference focuses on "returning to growth" — not only in terms of revenue and player base but also in revitalizing job opportunities for game developers. The packed agenda includes discussions on the latest developments in game engine technology and the growing influence of creators within game marketing.
A highlight of the first day will be a virtual conversation with Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, who returns to share insights on the journey towards an open metaverse and advancements in Unreal Engine and Fortnite. Joining him will be Neal Stephenson, famed for coining the term "metaverse" in his seminal work, Snow Crash. Stephenson will share his vision for the future of gaming and how today’s technological innovations are shaping that reality.
Riz Virk, a simulation theory expert from Arizona State University, will facilitate a critical discussion with Stephenson, probing how rapidly evolving technologies are collapsing the walls between science fiction and reality.
Among other notables, former chairman of Sony Interactive Studios, Shawn Layden, and Play CEO Christina Macedo will discuss the importance of creating quality games and their integration with Web3 technologies.
Day Two Highlights: Empowering the Next Generation
Kicking off the second day is the Women in Gaming Breakfast, featuring a fireside chat that centers on nurturing the next generation of leaders in the gaming sector. Dametra Johnson-Marletti, corporate vice president of digital gaming within Microsoft, will address how major firms can support diversity and inclusion while fostering lasting success for upcoming talents.
Throughout the day, attendees can participate in sessions that focus on mobile monetization strategies, diversity in gaming, and the ethical use of AI in game development. The diversity panel, featuring entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, is set to inspire and provoke thought on inclusion in the gaming community.
Game Changers: Celebrating Innovation in Gaming
As GamesBeat Next wraps up, the spotlight will shine on the “Game Changers” session. This segment celebrates extraordinary startups in gaming and interactive technology, culminating in an awards ceremony where winners from various categories, including generative AI and extended reality, will be announced.
Join the Conversation
Looking forward, GamesBeat Next 2024 aims to highlight not just the challenges but the immense potential for growth and innovation in the gaming sector. The event stands as a testament to resilience in a turbulent landscape, bringing together industry veterans and emerging voices alike.
For more updates and insights from the event, keep an eye on the GamesBeat Next agenda and coverage. This is not just an event; it’s a gathering of minds pushing the boundaries of what gaming can achieve.
