The Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2024 marks a significant milestone as it returns to San Francisco’s Moscone Center. With an anticipated attendance of 30,000, along with over 300 sponsors and exhibitors, this event showcases the strength and vibrancy of the global game development community.
Economic Impact and Industry Significance
As a major contributor to San Francisco’s economy, GDC 2024 is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, highlighting its importance not only to the gaming industry but also to the local hospitality and tourism sectors.
Celebrating Game Development History and Innovation
This year, GDC focuses on preserving the rich heritage of the gaming industry while also spotlighting the latest innovations. From the Game History Gallery to the comprehensive archival efforts of the GDC Vault and the Gama Archive, the conference serves as a bridge connecting the past, present, and future of game development.
Spotlight on Challenges and Creativity in Game Development
GDC 2024 addresses the resilience of the game development industry, offering insights into overcoming economic uncertainties, ethical dilemmas surrounding AI, and the push for greater accessibility in games. These discussions underscore the ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation within the gaming community.
Generative AI, virtual reality, and augmented reality are exploding in the games space—and paving the way for the future. In our Future Realities track, learn to create amazing, immersive VR and AR experiences for games and entertainment. Be inspired, learn from experts, and share best practices to create augmented and virtual reality for games, films, and other forms of entertainment. In the Artificial Intelligence (AI) sessions, learn the latest tools and techniques for Generative AI and other AI.
Summits and Sessions
- Future Realities Summit takes place Monday-Tuesday (March 18-19). Find Future Realities Summit Sessions Here
- AI Summit takes place Monday-Tuesday (March 18-19). Find AI Summit Sessions Here
- VR/AR Core Concepts sessions take place Wednesday-Friday (March 20-22). Find All VR/AR Sessions Here
- Generative AI Core Concepts sessions take place Wednesday-Friday (March 20-22). Find All Generative AI Sessions Here
Roundtables
- AI Roundtable: Day 1 (Deep Dive With Experts), Day 2 (Quick Q&A For Beginners), and Day 3 (Open Discussion)
A Celebration of Video Game Music and Iconic Franchises
A highlight of the conference is the tribute to video game music, alongside exclusive sessions on Nintendo’s legendary franchises. These events exemplify GDC’s role as a platform for celebrating the artistic achievements that have defined and enriched the gaming experience.
Summits and Sessions
- Audio Summit takes place on Tuesday (March 19). Find Audio Summit Sessions Here
- Core Concepts sessions take place Wednesday-Friday (March 20-22). Find All Audio Sessions Here
Roundtables
- Diversity in Game Audio Roundtable
- Remotely Possible Roundtable: Building Your Game Audio Career From the Comfort of Your Own Home
- Audio Directors Roundtable: Day 1 and Day 2
- Game Audio Business Roundtable: Day 1 (Running a Freelance Business), Day 2 (Composer Agents), and Day 3 (Music Income Streams)
- Game Audio Programming Roundtable: Day 1 (Game Integration), Day 2 (Low-Level Topics), and Day 3 (Free-For-All)
Exploring Innovation with alt.ctrl.GDC and Community Events
With its showcase of unconventional game controllers and community-focused events like the Black in Gaming BIG Fest, GDC 2024 emphasizes the importance of creativity, diversity, and inclusion in shaping the future of gaming.
Summits and Sessions
- Fair Play Workshop takes place Tuesday (March 19). Find Fair Play Workshop Sessions Here (also shown below)
- International Game Developers Association is hosting a series of Roundtables covering a variety of topics. Find All IGDA Roundtables Here
- Core Concepts sessions take place Wednesday-Friday (March 20-22). Find All Advocacy Sessions Here
Fair Play Workshop (Tuesday, March 19)
- Harmonizing Multiplayer Experiences (9:00am-12:00pm)
- Crafting Thriving User Generated Content Communities (1:30-2:00pm)
- Non-Binary By Design (2:20-2:50pm)
- Designing for a Dark Night of the Soul (3:10-4:10pm)
- Kind Games: Designing for Prosocial Multiplayer (4:30-5:30pm)
- Digital Thriving in a Post-Pandemic World: A Prosocial Blueprint (5:50-6:50pm)
Roundtables and Other Workshops
- Building a Resilient Industry Through Worker Organizing & Empowerment Roundtable
- Climate Crisis Workshop: Use Your Game Developer Superpowers to Fight the Climate Crisis
- Games Industry Layoff Preparedness Roundtable
- Global Game Jam Roundtable
- Local Game Community Organizers Roundtable
Beyond the Conference: Discovering San Francisco
GDC 2024 invites attendees to explore the cultural and historical landmarks of San Francisco, enriching the conference experience with guided walking tours that offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant spirit.
As GDC 2024 unfolds, it promises to be a pivotal gathering for game developers worldwide, offering a wealth of opportunities for learning, inspiration, and collaboration.
Passes: All Access Pass will get you into all GDC 2024 sessions, roundtables, and workshops. Register for GDC 2024 here.
