IGDA Newsletter - February 2009
===============================
IGDA Newsletter - February 2009
===============================
=================
Table of Contents
=================
0: A Word From Jen MacLean
1: IGDA Action at GDC 2009 (+ party RSVP)
2: Leadership Forum 09 Call for Speakers (+ 08 DVD)
3: 25 GDC Student Scholarships Awarded
4: Global Game Jam: 1650 developers build 360 games in 48 hours
5: IGDA Announces Search for a New Executive Director
6: Columns Update
7: Chapter Meetings/Reports
x: Logistical Bits & Unsubscribe Info
=================
==========================
0: A Word From Jen MacLean
==========================
Dear Members and friends,
The end of my term as the Chair of the IGDA Board is approaching, and as I reflect on the past year, I can't help but be excited about what we've accomplished and what we're going to do in the future.
You'll see us carry over into 2009 (and beyond) many of our most important initiatives, like advocacy for game developers on important issues like credits and quality of life, launching a new web portal with enhanced chapter/SIG support and better tools to help connect developers everywhere, and continuing to increase the benefits of membership in the IGDA through additional services, discounts, and partnerships.
Fundamentally, these projects are building blocks for our larger strategic goals: establish the IGDA as the credible, essential, #1 organization for game developers worldwide. Our mission is to improve the lives of game developers everywhere, and we want to be a force to be reckoned with, not only within our industry but on a larger, global stage. These are lofty goals, and they can't be accomplished without the involvement of our membership.
Your participation, whether it's as simple as posting to a forum or SIG mailing list, or as deep as leading a chapter or IGDA committee, is crucial to the success of our mission. I personally will remain deeply involved with the IGDA as I transition to the role of Chair Emeritus and continue to serve on the Board, and I'm looking forward to contributing to our advocacy and international efforts.
I encourage you to find your passion within the IGDA, and to volunteer with whatever time you can. If your experience is anything like mine, you'll meet wonderful people and have the chance to contribute to the success of a group whose most important success is to make a unique, tangible difference in the lives of game developers everywhere.
- Jen MacLean
Chairperson, IGDA
SVP, Business Development, 38 Studios
***************************
** Ad: GDC Mobile at GDC **
***************************
2009 marks the resurgence of mobile games worldwide. Take advantage from the knowledge of pioneers in iPhone game development as well as top hardware and development studios such as, SEGA, Mofactor, Take Two Software, Zeebo, Qualcomm, Pervasive Games, and EA Mobile onhow you and your company can re-enter and make a impact in this market. All at GDC.
Learn more about GDC Mobile via:
http://www.gdconf.com/conference/gdcmobile.html?cid=GDC09_QUENX4
For more info on GDC in general, jump to:
http://www.gdconf.com/?cid=GDC09_QUENX4
***************************
=========================================
1: IGDA Action at GDC 2009 (+ party RSVP)
=========================================
Each year the IGDA works hard to maximize the GDC experience for our members and the game development community. Here's an outline of all the stuff the IGDA has cooking for the 2009 GDC.
- Members-Only Party on Tuesday night from 8pm to 1am at the Westin on Market, which you can now RSVP for:
http://www.igda.org/gdc09/rsvp_gdcparty_09.php
- IGDA Annual General Meeting on Thursday during lunch break
- Education Summit
- Localization Summit
- 28 SIG and committee meeting roundtable sessions
- 12 social gatherings
- Student Scholarship Program
- IGDA booth and members' area
- Members-Only t-shirt give-away
- Membership ribbons
- VIP Luncheon on Wednesday (by invite only)
- Chapter Coordinators Workshop on Monday (by invite only)
- SIG Leaders Workshop on Monday (by invite only)
- $150 member discount
For details and updates on the above IGDA activities, please jump to the dedicated IGDA@GDC info page:
http://www.igda.org/gdc09/
*****************************************
** Ad: IndieCade: Call for Submissions **
*****************************************
Independent game artists and designers from around the world are invited to submit interactive media of all types, from art to commercial, ARG to abstract, mind-bending to mobile, serious to shooter for consideration. Work-in-progress is encouraged.
A jury of industry leaders will select entries for top prizes and inclusion in international events. Submissions Deadline: April 30, 2009 at Midnight PT
IndieCade announced this open call for game submissions for its 2009 international festival, October and a half-dozen global exhibitions and showcases.
For more information and to submit:
http://www.IndieCade.com/
*****************************************
===================================================
2: Leadership Forum 09 Call for Speakers (+ 08 DVD)
===================================================
We invite your participation in the third annual IGDA Leadership Forum (set for November 12-13 in San Francisco), focused on advancing the state of the art in game production and management. The conference is valuable for people in leadership positions in game development, and for individuals who want to develop their leadership skills. This includes producers at all levels, discipline leads, project managers, studio directors, and all others seeking to become better leaders, create successful games, and learn from other working professionals in the game industry.
The Program Committee welcomes session proposals from qualified speakers for all three areas. Please review the entire call-for-speakers via:
http://www.igda.org/leadership/?p=140
During last year's Leadership Forum, 28 conference sessions were recorded and are now available for purchase on DVD. The 5-disc set of hi-res video is priced at $99 (plus shipping). If you would like to purchase a copy, please email us via sales@igda.org and we'll forward you the order form. Copies of the 2007 Leadership Forum DVD are still available as well.
Alternately, you can watch the freely available lo-res videos hosted at Google Video, all linked via the "context index" page (just click on the speaker photos or "video" links for each session):
http://www.igda.org/leadership/?page_id=137
*******************************************************************
** Ad: Love writing Amazon reviews? Get a free copy of Game Feel **
*******************************************************************
Game Feel: A Game Designer's Guide to Virtual Sensation by Steve Swink, demystifies the key element of game design, exploring what draws players in and makes them addicted to game play. Sounds awesome, right? Well, we need your help to spread the word about this exciting new title...
If you'd like to review Game Feel on Amazon.com or BN.com and you're one of the first ten people to respond, you'll get a free copy of the book!
http://www.focalpress.com/Book.aspx?id=6742
While you're there, you can view chapter samples, video tutorials, and podcasts, or sign up for the latest tips and discounts newsletter.
*******************************************************************
======================================
3: 25 GDC Student Scholarships Awarded
======================================
The IGDA recently announced the recipients of the 2009 GDC Student Scholarship Program. The 25 college students will receive conference passes to this year's GDC, along with doing a local studio tour and being matched with a mentor. The recipients represent a diverse range of disciplines and cultures, including recipients from Australia, Asia, Europe and North America - they are:
- Ricardo A Arango Slingsby - University of Aalborg Conpenhagen (Denmark)
- Tobias Baumann - Zurich University of the Arts (Switzerland)
- Isik Baris Fidaner - Bogazici University (Turkey)
- Sarah Brown - Cornell University
- Theresa Chen - Carnegie Mellon University Entertainment Technology Center
- Kerry Wayne Enfinger - DeVry University
- Zack Freedman - Stevens Institute of Technology
- Rachel Larsen - Art Institute of California - Orange County
- Christopher Jordan Lynn - University of Georgia
- Doug Macdonald - DigiPen Institute of Technology
- Brittnay Muckenmuller - University of South Alabama
- Alexander Mulder - Utrecht School of the Arts (The Netherlands)
- Gwendolyn Murray - Savannah College of Art & Design
- Andrew Papadopoulos - University Of Wollongong (Australia)
- Michelle Parent - Great Northern Way Campus (Canada)
- Lukasz Pasek - University of Derby (UK)
- Aylwin Po Villanueva - University of California- Irvine
- John Richardson - Emerson College
- Dan Rosenthal - American University, Washington College of Law
- Nicholas Rudzicz - McGill University (Canada)
- Karen Schrier - Columbia University
- Florian Schwarzer - University of Technology Ilmenau (Germany)
- Joseph Serra - International Academy of Design & Technology, Troy
- Daniel Starck - Blekinge Institute of Technology (Sweden)
- Matthew M. White - Memorial University of Newfoundland (Canada)
For full details on the Scholarship Program can be viewed online:
http://www.igda.org/scholarships/
===============================================================
4: Global Game Jam: 1650 developers build 360 games in 48 hours
===============================================================
A congratulatory note from the Global Game Jam organizers:
"Technology has given us the ability to share in an experiment in creativity and innovation with over 1600 participants. Nothing but passion and hard work has prepared us for the stamina and metal it takes to mentally and physically create a game in 48 hours. To do so you must have a unified vision and the ability to communicate, lead and follow. In the course of a weekend you test your agility and humor, kindness and patience. Season that with variables of personality and skill complimented with warrior strength to stay awake to finish the task...nothing prepares you for a game jam like living through one. This past weekend has been a tremendous success on so many levels, we are very happy with the results. For those that participated, we applaud you, we are jealous of you and we think you are brilliant. You have done well and have attempted to make (300+) games in one weekend. Some of them are genius, some of them of funny, some poignant, silly and some... not so successful. You did better than you imagined, you learned new things, made new friends and you were a member of the 1st Annual Global Game Jam, congratulations. Now go get some sleep, play some games and tell everyone what you did."
More news and coverage via:
http://globalgamejam.org/content/media-coverage
http://globalgamejam.org/content/press-releases
=====================================================
5: IGDA Announces Search for a New Executive Director
=====================================================
The IGDA recently announced that Jason Della Rocca will step down as Executive Director effective March 31. Having served the IGDA since September 2000, Della Rocca, who is departing to focus on a new venture, will assist the Board of Directors in the search for his successor. He will remain involved after March 31 to facilitate the transition process.
Full press release and details available via:
http://www.igda.org/newsroom/press_020209.php
=================
6: Columns Update
=================
Monthly columns have been updated:
Famous Last Words
-----------------
"Ideas, NDA's and Getting Ripped Off"
http://www.igda.org/columns/lastwords/lastwords_Feb09.php
Culture Clash
-------------
"The Guythagorean Theorem - Female characters have come so far, have so far to go"
http://www.igda.org/columns/clash/clash_Feb09.php
The Games Game
--------------
"Should I Stay or Should I Go"
http://www.igda.org/columns/gamesgame/gamesgame_Feb09.php
===========================
6: Chapter Meetings/Reports
===========================
Complete list of chapter reports and upcoming meetings:
http://www.igda.org/chapters/updates.php
Ottawa
Thursday, February 26 > Game Speaker: Mathew Kumar
http://www.igda.org/ottawa/index_files/MKInvite.pdf
Montreal
Wednesday, February 25 > "The Next Generation Player" with Clint Hocking
http://www.igda.org/montreal/archives/2009/02/february_25_the.html
Vietnam
Report, February 13 > Inaugural Meeting!
http://www.igda.org/wiki/Meeting_Report_:13/02/2009
Montreal
Report, January 28 > LittleBigPlanet "Jam" report and video
http://www.igda.org/montreal/archives/2009/02/jamming_with_li.html
Finland
Report, January 28 > January Gathering: Promises for the New Year
http://igda.fi/?p=474
Finland
Report, January 27 > Score’s 2008 Wrap Up
http://igda.fi/?p=476
Malaysia
Report, January 24 > IGDA Informal Meet Dec 19th
http://www.igda.org.my/?p=224
Albuquerque
Report, January 19 > NM Media Industries MIX
http://www.nm-mix.org/
==================
x: Logistical Bits
==================
Unsubscribe/Subscribe to Newsletter
-----------------------------------
To unsubscribe simply send an email with the subject "unsubscribe" to igda@igda.org.
Or, you can update your newsletter subscription details via your MyProfile page:
http://www.igda.org/membership/myprofile.php
Thanks to our Partners
----------------------
The IGDA extends its sincerest thanks to all our Partners! Especially those who just joined us, or recently renewed their commitment to support the game development community:
- Morgan Kaufmann / Focal Press
- Snader & Associates, Inc.
Without their support the IGDA simply would not survive - let alone thrive.
Further details and a complete list of Partners are available online:
http://www.igda.org/partners
Contact Information
-------------------
Please contact us if you have questions, comments or input:
http://www.igda.org/contact.php
19 Mantua Road
Mount Royal, New Jersey
USA 08061
RSS Feeds for IGDA News and Chapter Updates
-------------------------------------------
The IGDA web site has RSS feeds for IGDA news (eg, org announcements, committee work, etc) and chapter updates (eg, upcoming meetings, event reports). Those using RSS readers can point to:
IGDA News: http://www.igda.org/igda_news_rss.php
IGDA Chapter Updates: http://www.igda.org/igda_chapters_rss.php
-------
- end -
------m
IGDA Newsletter - February 2009
===============================
=================
Table of Contents
=================
0: A Word From Jen MacLean
1: IGDA Action at GDC 2009 (+ party RSVP)
2: Leadership Forum 09 Call for Speakers (+ 08 DVD)
3: 25 GDC Student Scholarships Awarded
4: Global Game Jam: 1650 developers build 360 games in 48 hours
5: IGDA Announces Search for a New Executive Director
6: Columns Update
7: Chapter Meetings/Reports
x: Logistical Bits & Unsubscribe Info
=================
==========================
0: A Word From Jen MacLean
==========================
Dear Members and friends,
The end of my term as the Chair of the IGDA Board is approaching, and as I reflect on the past year, I can't help but be excited about what we've accomplished and what we're going to do in the future.
You'll see us carry over into 2009 (and beyond) many of our most important initiatives, like advocacy for game developers on important issues like credits and quality of life, launching a new web portal with enhanced chapter/SIG support and better tools to help connect developers everywhere, and continuing to increase the benefits of membership in the IGDA through additional services, discounts, and partnerships.
Fundamentally, these projects are building blocks for our larger strategic goals: establish the IGDA as the credible, essential, #1 organization for game developers worldwide. Our mission is to improve the lives of game developers everywhere, and we want to be a force to be reckoned with, not only within our industry but on a larger, global stage. These are lofty goals, and they can't be accomplished without the involvement of our membership.
Your participation, whether it's as simple as posting to a forum or SIG mailing list, or as deep as leading a chapter or IGDA committee, is crucial to the success of our mission. I personally will remain deeply involved with the IGDA as I transition to the role of Chair Emeritus and continue to serve on the Board, and I'm looking forward to contributing to our advocacy and international efforts.
I encourage you to find your passion within the IGDA, and to volunteer with whatever time you can. If your experience is anything like mine, you'll meet wonderful people and have the chance to contribute to the success of a group whose most important success is to make a unique, tangible difference in the lives of game developers everywhere.
- Jen MacLean
Chairperson, IGDA
SVP, Business Development, 38 Studios
***************************
** Ad: GDC Mobile at GDC **
***************************
2009 marks the resurgence of mobile games worldwide. Take advantage from the knowledge of pioneers in iPhone game development as well as top hardware and development studios such as, SEGA, Mofactor, Take Two Software, Zeebo, Qualcomm, Pervasive Games, and EA Mobile onhow you and your company can re-enter and make a impact in this market. All at GDC.
Learn more about GDC Mobile via:
http://www.gdconf.com/conference/gdcmobile.html?cid=GDC09_QUENX4
For more info on GDC in general, jump to:
http://www.gdconf.com/?cid=GDC09_QUENX4
***************************
=========================================
1: IGDA Action at GDC 2009 (+ party RSVP)
=========================================
Each year the IGDA works hard to maximize the GDC experience for our members and the game development community. Here's an outline of all the stuff the IGDA has cooking for the 2009 GDC.
- Members-Only Party on Tuesday night from 8pm to 1am at the Westin on Market, which you can now RSVP for:
http://www.igda.org/gdc09/rsvp_gdcparty_09.php
- IGDA Annual General Meeting on Thursday during lunch break
- Education Summit
- Localization Summit
- 28 SIG and committee meeting roundtable sessions
- 12 social gatherings
- Student Scholarship Program
- IGDA booth and members' area
- Members-Only t-shirt give-away
- Membership ribbons
- VIP Luncheon on Wednesday (by invite only)
- Chapter Coordinators Workshop on Monday (by invite only)
- SIG Leaders Workshop on Monday (by invite only)
- $150 member discount
For details and updates on the above IGDA activities, please jump to the dedicated IGDA@GDC info page:
http://www.igda.org/gdc09/
*****************************************
** Ad: IndieCade: Call for Submissions **
*****************************************
Independent game artists and designers from around the world are invited to submit interactive media of all types, from art to commercial, ARG to abstract, mind-bending to mobile, serious to shooter for consideration. Work-in-progress is encouraged.
A jury of industry leaders will select entries for top prizes and inclusion in international events. Submissions Deadline: April 30, 2009 at Midnight PT
IndieCade announced this open call for game submissions for its 2009 international festival, October and a half-dozen global exhibitions and showcases.
For more information and to submit:
http://www.IndieCade.com/
*****************************************
===================================================
2: Leadership Forum 09 Call for Speakers (+ 08 DVD)
===================================================
We invite your participation in the third annual IGDA Leadership Forum (set for November 12-13 in San Francisco), focused on advancing the state of the art in game production and management. The conference is valuable for people in leadership positions in game development, and for individuals who want to develop their leadership skills. This includes producers at all levels, discipline leads, project managers, studio directors, and all others seeking to become better leaders, create successful games, and learn from other working professionals in the game industry.
The Program Committee welcomes session proposals from qualified speakers for all three areas. Please review the entire call-for-speakers via:
http://www.igda.org/leadership/?p=140
During last year's Leadership Forum, 28 conference sessions were recorded and are now available for purchase on DVD. The 5-disc set of hi-res video is priced at $99 (plus shipping). If you would like to purchase a copy, please email us via sales@igda.org and we'll forward you the order form. Copies of the 2007 Leadership Forum DVD are still available as well.
Alternately, you can watch the freely available lo-res videos hosted at Google Video, all linked via the "context index" page (just click on the speaker photos or "video" links for each session):
http://www.igda.org/leadership/?page_id=137
*******************************************************************
** Ad: Love writing Amazon reviews? Get a free copy of Game Feel **
*******************************************************************
Game Feel: A Game Designer's Guide to Virtual Sensation by Steve Swink, demystifies the key element of game design, exploring what draws players in and makes them addicted to game play. Sounds awesome, right? Well, we need your help to spread the word about this exciting new title...
If you'd like to review Game Feel on Amazon.com or BN.com and you're one of the first ten people to respond, you'll get a free copy of the book!
http://www.focalpress.com/Book.aspx?id=6742
While you're there, you can view chapter samples, video tutorials, and podcasts, or sign up for the latest tips and discounts newsletter.
*******************************************************************
======================================
3: 25 GDC Student Scholarships Awarded
======================================
The IGDA recently announced the recipients of the 2009 GDC Student Scholarship Program. The 25 college students will receive conference passes to this year's GDC, along with doing a local studio tour and being matched with a mentor. The recipients represent a diverse range of disciplines and cultures, including recipients from Australia, Asia, Europe and North America - they are:
- Ricardo A Arango Slingsby - University of Aalborg Conpenhagen (Denmark)
- Tobias Baumann - Zurich University of the Arts (Switzerland)
- Isik Baris Fidaner - Bogazici University (Turkey)
- Sarah Brown - Cornell University
- Theresa Chen - Carnegie Mellon University Entertainment Technology Center
- Kerry Wayne Enfinger - DeVry University
- Zack Freedman - Stevens Institute of Technology
- Rachel Larsen - Art Institute of California - Orange County
- Christopher Jordan Lynn - University of Georgia
- Doug Macdonald - DigiPen Institute of Technology
- Brittnay Muckenmuller - University of South Alabama
- Alexander Mulder - Utrecht School of the Arts (The Netherlands)
- Gwendolyn Murray - Savannah College of Art & Design
- Andrew Papadopoulos - University Of Wollongong (Australia)
- Michelle Parent - Great Northern Way Campus (Canada)
- Lukasz Pasek - University of Derby (UK)
- Aylwin Po Villanueva - University of California- Irvine
- John Richardson - Emerson College
- Dan Rosenthal - American University, Washington College of Law
- Nicholas Rudzicz - McGill University (Canada)
- Karen Schrier - Columbia University
- Florian Schwarzer - University of Technology Ilmenau (Germany)
- Joseph Serra - International Academy of Design & Technology, Troy
- Daniel Starck - Blekinge Institute of Technology (Sweden)
- Matthew M. White - Memorial University of Newfoundland (Canada)
For full details on the Scholarship Program can be viewed online:
http://www.igda.org/scholarships/
===============================================================
4: Global Game Jam: 1650 developers build 360 games in 48 hours
===============================================================
A congratulatory note from the Global Game Jam organizers:
"Technology has given us the ability to share in an experiment in creativity and innovation with over 1600 participants. Nothing but passion and hard work has prepared us for the stamina and metal it takes to mentally and physically create a game in 48 hours. To do so you must have a unified vision and the ability to communicate, lead and follow. In the course of a weekend you test your agility and humor, kindness and patience. Season that with variables of personality and skill complimented with warrior strength to stay awake to finish the task...nothing prepares you for a game jam like living through one. This past weekend has been a tremendous success on so many levels, we are very happy with the results. For those that participated, we applaud you, we are jealous of you and we think you are brilliant. You have done well and have attempted to make (300+) games in one weekend. Some of them are genius, some of them of funny, some poignant, silly and some... not so successful. You did better than you imagined, you learned new things, made new friends and you were a member of the 1st Annual Global Game Jam, congratulations. Now go get some sleep, play some games and tell everyone what you did."
More news and coverage via:
http://globalgamejam.org/content/media-coverage
http://globalgamejam.org/content/press-releases
=====================================================
5: IGDA Announces Search for a New Executive Director
=====================================================
The IGDA recently announced that Jason Della Rocca will step down as Executive Director effective March 31. Having served the IGDA since September 2000, Della Rocca, who is departing to focus on a new venture, will assist the Board of Directors in the search for his successor. He will remain involved after March 31 to facilitate the transition process.
Full press release and details available via:
http://www.igda.org/newsroom/press_020209.php
=================
6: Columns Update
=================
Monthly columns have been updated:
Famous Last Words
-----------------
"Ideas, NDA's and Getting Ripped Off"
http://www.igda.org/columns/lastwords/lastwords_Feb09.php
Culture Clash
-------------
"The Guythagorean Theorem - Female characters have come so far, have so far to go"
http://www.igda.org/columns/clash/clash_Feb09.php
The Games Game
--------------
"Should I Stay or Should I Go"
http://www.igda.org/columns/gamesgame/gamesgame_Feb09.php
===========================
6: Chapter Meetings/Reports
===========================
Complete list of chapter reports and upcoming meetings:
http://www.igda.org/chapters/updates.php
Ottawa
Thursday, February 26 > Game Speaker: Mathew Kumar
http://www.igda.org/ottawa/index_files/MKInvite.pdf
Montreal
Wednesday, February 25 > "The Next Generation Player" with Clint Hocking
http://www.igda.org/montreal/archives/2009/02/february_25_the.html
Vietnam
Report, February 13 > Inaugural Meeting!
http://www.igda.org/wiki/Meeting_Report_:13/02/2009
Montreal
Report, January 28 > LittleBigPlanet "Jam" report and video
http://www.igda.org/montreal/archives/2009/02/jamming_with_li.html
Finland
Report, January 28 > January Gathering: Promises for the New Year
http://igda.fi/?p=474
Finland
Report, January 27 > Score’s 2008 Wrap Up
http://igda.fi/?p=476
Malaysia
Report, January 24 > IGDA Informal Meet Dec 19th
http://www.igda.org.my/?p=224
Albuquerque
Report, January 19 > NM Media Industries MIX
http://www.nm-mix.org/
==================
x: Logistical Bits
==================
Unsubscribe/Subscribe to Newsletter
-----------------------------------
To unsubscribe simply send an email with the subject "unsubscribe" to igda@igda.org.
Or, you can update your newsletter subscription details via your MyProfile page:
http://www.igda.org/membership/myprofile.php
Thanks to our Partners
----------------------
The IGDA extends its sincerest thanks to all our Partners! Especially those who just joined us, or recently renewed their commitment to support the game development community:
- Morgan Kaufmann / Focal Press
- Snader & Associates, Inc.
Without their support the IGDA simply would not survive - let alone thrive.
Further details and a complete list of Partners are available online:
http://www.igda.org/partners
Contact Information
-------------------
Please contact us if you have questions, comments or input:
http://www.igda.org/contact.php
19 Mantua Road
Mount Royal, New Jersey
USA 08061
RSS Feeds for IGDA News and Chapter Updates
-------------------------------------------
The IGDA web site has RSS feeds for IGDA news (eg, org announcements, committee work, etc) and chapter updates (eg, upcoming meetings, event reports). Those using RSS readers can point to:
IGDA News: http://www.igda.org/igda_news_rss.php
IGDA Chapter Updates: http://www.igda.org/igda_chapters_rss.php
-------
- end -
------m
Last updated:
09/28/2009 - 1:25 PM
Links
Poll
How often should the chapter meet, realistically?
| Once a month | 191 |
| Once a quarter | 105 |
Total votes: 296