The Game Developers Conference (GDC) has announced its rebranding as the "GDC Festival of Gaming," set to take place in San Francisco from March 9th to 13th. This evolution aims to broaden the conference’s scope while maintaining its core focus on industry professionals. The event will feature a revamped pass structure, an expanded content program, and new networking opportunities, all designed to foster a more celebratory atmosphere for game development.
Key Takeaways
- New Pass Structure: Introduction of "Festival Pass" and "Game Changers" pass, offering different levels of access and benefits.
- Expanded Program: Content spread throughout the week, with new formats and evening events.
- City Integration: Increased use of San Francisco venues beyond the Moscone Center.
- Focus on Networking: Enhanced opportunities for deal-making and curated connections.
Evolving the GDC Experience
The GDC Festival of Gaming will retain its industry-only focus, with the Moscone Center serving as its anchor. The traditional expo floor has been transformed into the "Festival Hall," organized into five distinct neighborhoods: Game Development, Future Tech, Indie & Education, International, and Monetization & Player Engagement. These areas will host demos, micro-sessions, and informal meeting spaces.
New Pass Tiers
A new "Festival Pass" offers access to the core sessions, the Festival Hall, and networking, priced at $1199 (early bird $649). For senior figures and those looking to pitch games, the "Game Changers" pass ($2499, early bird $1699) includes access to a three-day executive-targeted Luminaries Speaker series, private meeting spaces, and the "GamePlan" networking platform for facilitated one-on-one meetings.
A digital pass remains available for online networking and access to the GDC Vault ($799). Additionally, "Early Stage Indie & Start-Up" passes are offered at a reduced rate ($649, early bird $449) for qualifying smaller companies and academic institutions.
Expanded Content and Networking
The content program has been extended and diversified, with sessions previously confined to the start of the week now spread throughout. New formats like fireside chats and debates are being explored, alongside potential keynote sessions. The "GDC Nights" brand will encompass a week of evening events, including an Opening Night Social Mixer, the Developers Concert, and separate IGF and GDC Awards ceremonies.
Mark DeLoura, GDC’s Executive Director for Innovation and Growth, described the rebrand as "additive," emphasizing that it’s not about introducing a consumer audience but rather embracing the city more broadly. "The festival part of the GDC Festival is that we’re broadening out what the conference is and does, but not into a consumer space. It’s still by developers for developers focused on developers," he stated. The event aims to be a celebration of development, integrating more with hotels and other city venues for meetings and events.
Sources
- GDC organisers reveal details of new "GDC Festival of Gaming", GamesIndustry.biz.
