IGDA Newsletter - May 2009
==========================
IGDA Newsletter - May 2009
==========================
=================
Table of Contents
=================
0: A Word From Bob Bates
1: Game Design Concepts Update
2: IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; 2008 LF DVDs
3: New IGDA Magazine Update
4: New Visual Arts SIG Seeks Logo
5: First Triangle Game Conference Surpasses Expectations
6: Annual Austin Picnic Announced; sponsors sought
7: Event Action: E3, Brighton
8: Columns Update
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
10: Logistical Bits & Unsubscribe Info
======================================
========================
0: A Word From Bob Bates
========================
Dear members and friends,
In the two months since I’ve become Chair, I’ve noticed a big difference in the IGDA from my first term several years ago. The issues are bigger, the controversies go deeper, the passions run hotter. Why is this? I believe it’s because games have begun to *matter*, not just to us, but to everyone.
We’ve all seen the statistics on the growth of our industry, but what the numbers don’t indicate is that people have begun to *care* about games and gaming.
** Books like John Beck’s “Got Game” tell us that the business landscape is being changed by a new generation of gamers who employ different problem-solving techniques, are more collaborative, and have better leadership skills than those who came before.
** Universities all over the world have started programs both to study games and to teach students how to make them.
** The State of California asked the U.S. Supreme Court this week to reinstate a California law that bans the sale of violent video games to minors.
** NPD reported in March that almost 64 percent of Americans have played a video game in the past six months (versus only 53 percent who have gone out to see a movie).
What does that mean for us? It means the work that IGDA members do is more visible and has more importance than ever before. We are having a greater impact on people’s lives. That makes this an exciting time to be a game developer.
It’s also an exciting time to bring in a new Executive Director. Finding the right person to help guide the IGDA into the future has been a challenging task, but our Search Task Force, led by Tobi Saulnier, has identified several excellent candidates, and the Board is conducting final interviews. We will be announcing our new ED as soon as an offer has been made and accepted.
Happy Gaming,
--Bob Bates
Chairperson, IGDA
************************************************************************************
** Ad: G2S.com: A Fresh Perspective on Ecommerce Solutions for the Games Industry **
************************************************************************************
G2S.com is a premium provider of the technology for games publishers and developers to market and sell their products online. We aim to help you sell more by providing an exceptional personalized service and knowledge of the industry and its needs. Our competitive rates and optimized checkout process will boost your conversion rate and profitability. Dedicated customer service – we know our clients’ needs and we’re good at what we do. Inquire now!
URL: http://www.g2s.com/en/landing/blue.mhtml
*************************************************
===============================
1: Game Design Concepts: Update
===============================
Ian Schreiber, industry veteran and contributor to the IGDA Education SIG, is offering a FREE online summer course on game design. Game Design Concepts is a large-scale online version of a course normally taught in a university classroom, focusing on both the theory and practice of core systems game design. As of this point, over 500 people have registered from over 35 different countries. Participants include high school and college students, college educators, and professionals both inside and outside the game industry. Class begins on June 29 and continues until September 6. Registration is still open. For complete schedule, syllabus and registration instructions, visit the official course blog at http://gamedesignconcepts.wordpress.com
=========================================================================
2: Save the Dates for IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; Get your DVDs from 2008
=========================================================================
The planning committee for Leadership Forum 09 is putting together an outstanding program. Registration will open in just a few weeks, so make sure you watch the igda.org website for details and also save the dates on your calendar. The third annual IGDA Leadership Forum is set for November 12-13 in San Francisco. This event focuses on advancing the state of the art in game production and management. 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
===========================
3: New IGDA Magazine Update
===========================
It's not too late to feature your company's ad in the premiere issue of IGDA MAGAZINE. Ours is a sprawling organization, with many efforts that no one ever hears about. This magazine is one attempt to get the word out. To get a sense of what we’re doing, download the PDF of the prototype issue here: http://www.box.net/shared/uebdhs0xvv. If your company is interested in advertising in the magazine, you’ll find the rate card at:
http://www.box.net/shared/dn6347l2cd
**************************************************
** Ad: SIGGRAPH 2009, 3-7 August in New Orleans **
**************************************************
SIGGRAPH 2009 will bring an anticipated 20,000 computer graphics and interactive technology professionals from six continents to New Orleans, Louisiana, for the industry's most respected technical and creative programs focusing on research, science, art, animation, music, gaming, interactivity, education, and the web from 3 - 7 August. SIGGRAPH 2009 includes a three-day exhibition of products and services from the computer graphics and interactive marketplace, More than 200 international exhibiting companies are expected. Register now: www.siggraph.org/s2009.
*******************************************************************
=====================
4: New SIG Seeks Logo
=====================
IGDA's newly formed Visual Arts SIG seeks a SIG logo. If you can help, please send your logo designs to Chris Mielke at Chris.Mielke@epicgames.com. Thanks for your help!
========================================================
5: First Triangle Game Conference Surpasses Expectations
========================================================
The NC Triangle IGDA held a landmark April meeting by kicking off the first ever Triangle Game Conference. TGC exceeded the chapter's expectations by drawing attendees from the West Coast and Europe, packing in loads of content with almost 70 speakers across five conference tracks, and doubling organizers' expected registration numbers. The chapter extended its thanks to all the studios and partners who offered support and invited IGDA members to save the dates for next year's show: April 7-8, 2010.
***************************************************************************
** Ad: Love writing Amazon reviews? Get a free copy of Game Art Complete **
***************************************************************************
Game Art Complete: All-in-One: Learn Maya, 3ds Max, ZBrush, and Photoshop Winning Techniques by Andrew Gahan is a compilation of key chapters from the top Focal game art books available today - in the areas of Max, Maya, Photoshop, and ZBrush. The chapters provide the CG Artist with an excellent sampling of essential techniques that every 3D artist needs to create stunning game art. Sounds awesome, right? Well, we need your help to spread the word about this exciting new title...
If you'd like to review Game Art Complete 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/giveaway.aspx?ekfrm=6736
While you're there, you can view chapter samples, video tutorials, and podcasts, or sign up for the latest tips and discounts newsletter.
*******************************************************************
==================================================
6: Annual Austin Picnic Announced; sponsors sought
==================================================
IGDA's Austin Chapter announced that its Annual Picnic at Richard's place will take place on Saturday, July 25. Bar B Q, Ice Cream, Cold Beer and the most fun for you and the family all summer! Once again, bigger and better than ever. Sponsorships are now open – contact Mike McShaffry at mrmike<insert @ here>mcschaffry.com for details. Want to volunteer? We can help with that too. Contact Amy Goldenburg at amy<insert @ here>goldenburg.com for information.
=============================
7: Event Action: E3, Brighton
=============================
Member discounts at upcoming events include:
- 20% member discount for E3 Expo in Los Angeles, CA (2-4 June)
- 10% member discount for Develop in Brighton, UK (14-16 July)
Full discount details and links available online:
http://www.igda.org/events/
==================
8: Columns Update
==================
Monthly columns have been updated:
Famous Last Words
-----------------
"Use of Games Music Beyond Games"
http://www.igda.org/columns/lastwords/lastwords_May09.php
Culture Clash
-------------
"Avast, Ye Scurvy Scallywag"
http://www.igda.org/columns/clash/clash_May09.php
The Games Game
--------------
"Getting nowhere fast"
http://www.igda.org/columns/gamesgame/gamesgame_May09.php
============================
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
============================
Complete list of chapter reports and upcoming meetings:
http://www.igda.org/chapters/updates.php
Berlin:
Wednesday, June 3 > Shark 3D / Interlinear Storytelling
http://igda.org/berlin/
Munich:
Wednesday, June 3 > IGDA Munich Summer Meeting
http://www.igda-munich.de/
Philadelphia:
Sunday, June 14th > New studio update
http://www.igda.org/philly/archives/2009/05/june_meeting_announcement.html
Salt Lake City:
Report, May 12 > GDC Share 2009
http://www.igda.org/slc/may09mr.htm
===================
10: 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:
- Green-Ear
- Emergent Game Technologies
- Jones and Bartlett Publishers
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 -
-------
This message was sent by: IGDA, 19 Mantua Road, Mt Royal, NJ 08061
Powered by iContact: http://freetrial.icontact.com
Manage your subscription:
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IGDA Newsletter - May 2009
==========================
=================
Table of Contents
=================
0: A Word From Bob Bates
1: Game Design Concepts Update
2: IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; 2008 LF DVDs
3: New IGDA Magazine Update
4: New Visual Arts SIG Seeks Logo
5: First Triangle Game Conference Surpasses Expectations
6: Annual Austin Picnic Announced; sponsors sought
7: Event Action: E3, Brighton
8: Columns Update
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
10: Logistical Bits & Unsubscribe Info
======================================
========================
0: A Word From Bob Bates
========================
Dear members and friends,
In the two months since I’ve become Chair, I’ve noticed a big difference in the IGDA from my first term several years ago. The issues are bigger, the controversies go deeper, the passions run hotter. Why is this? I believe it’s because games have begun to *matter*, not just to us, but to everyone.
We’ve all seen the statistics on the growth of our industry, but what the numbers don’t indicate is that people have begun to *care* about games and gaming.
** Books like John Beck’s “Got Game” tell us that the business landscape is being changed by a new generation of gamers who employ different problem-solving techniques, are more collaborative, and have better leadership skills than those who came before.
** Universities all over the world have started programs both to study games and to teach students how to make them.
** The State of California asked the U.S. Supreme Court this week to reinstate a California law that bans the sale of violent video games to minors.
** NPD reported in March that almost 64 percent of Americans have played a video game in the past six months (versus only 53 percent who have gone out to see a movie).
What does that mean for us? It means the work that IGDA members do is more visible and has more importance than ever before. We are having a greater impact on people’s lives. That makes this an exciting time to be a game developer.
It’s also an exciting time to bring in a new Executive Director. Finding the right person to help guide the IGDA into the future has been a challenging task, but our Search Task Force, led by Tobi Saulnier, has identified several excellent candidates, and the Board is conducting final interviews. We will be announcing our new ED as soon as an offer has been made and accepted.
Happy Gaming,
--Bob Bates
Chairperson, IGDA
************************************************************************************
** Ad: G2S.com: A Fresh Perspective on Ecommerce Solutions for the Games Industry **
************************************************************************************
G2S.com is a premium provider of the technology for games publishers and developers to market and sell their products online. We aim to help you sell more by providing an exceptional personalized service and knowledge of the industry and its needs. Our competitive rates and optimized checkout process will boost your conversion rate and profitability. Dedicated customer service – we know our clients’ needs and we’re good at what we do. Inquire now!
URL: http://www.g2s.com/en/landing/blue.mhtml
*************************************************
===============================
1: Game Design Concepts: Update
===============================
Ian Schreiber, industry veteran and contributor to the IGDA Education SIG, is offering a FREE online summer course on game design. Game Design Concepts is a large-scale online version of a course normally taught in a university classroom, focusing on both the theory and practice of core systems game design. As of this point, over 500 people have registered from over 35 different countries. Participants include high school and college students, college educators, and professionals both inside and outside the game industry. Class begins on June 29 and continues until September 6. Registration is still open. For complete schedule, syllabus and registration instructions, visit the official course blog at http://gamedesignconcepts.wordpress.com
=========================================================================
2: Save the Dates for IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; Get your DVDs from 2008
=========================================================================
The planning committee for Leadership Forum 09 is putting together an outstanding program. Registration will open in just a few weeks, so make sure you watch the igda.org website for details and also save the dates on your calendar. The third annual IGDA Leadership Forum is set for November 12-13 in San Francisco. This event focuses on advancing the state of the art in game production and management. 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
===========================
3: New IGDA Magazine Update
===========================
It's not too late to feature your company's ad in the premiere issue of IGDA MAGAZINE. Ours is a sprawling organization, with many efforts that no one ever hears about. This magazine is one attempt to get the word out. To get a sense of what we’re doing, download the PDF of the prototype issue here: http://www.box.net/shared/uebdhs0xvv. If your company is interested in advertising in the magazine, you’ll find the rate card at:
http://www.box.net/shared/dn6347l2cd
**************************************************
** Ad: SIGGRAPH 2009, 3-7 August in New Orleans **
**************************************************
SIGGRAPH 2009 will bring an anticipated 20,000 computer graphics and interactive technology professionals from six continents to New Orleans, Louisiana, for the industry's most respected technical and creative programs focusing on research, science, art, animation, music, gaming, interactivity, education, and the web from 3 - 7 August. SIGGRAPH 2009 includes a three-day exhibition of products and services from the computer graphics and interactive marketplace, More than 200 international exhibiting companies are expected. Register now: www.siggraph.org/s2009.
*******************************************************************
=====================
4: New SIG Seeks Logo
=====================
IGDA's newly formed Visual Arts SIG seeks a SIG logo. If you can help, please send your logo designs to Chris Mielke at Chris.Mielke@epicgames.com. Thanks for your help!
========================================================
5: First Triangle Game Conference Surpasses Expectations
========================================================
The NC Triangle IGDA held a landmark April meeting by kicking off the first ever Triangle Game Conference. TGC exceeded the chapter's expectations by drawing attendees from the West Coast and Europe, packing in loads of content with almost 70 speakers across five conference tracks, and doubling organizers' expected registration numbers. The chapter extended its thanks to all the studios and partners who offered support and invited IGDA members to save the dates for next year's show: April 7-8, 2010.
***************************************************************************
** Ad: Love writing Amazon reviews? Get a free copy of Game Art Complete **
***************************************************************************
Game Art Complete: All-in-One: Learn Maya, 3ds Max, ZBrush, and Photoshop Winning Techniques by Andrew Gahan is a compilation of key chapters from the top Focal game art books available today - in the areas of Max, Maya, Photoshop, and ZBrush. The chapters provide the CG Artist with an excellent sampling of essential techniques that every 3D artist needs to create stunning game art. Sounds awesome, right? Well, we need your help to spread the word about this exciting new title...
If you'd like to review Game Art Complete 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/giveaway.aspx?ekfrm=6736
While you're there, you can view chapter samples, video tutorials, and podcasts, or sign up for the latest tips and discounts newsletter.
*******************************************************************
==================================================
6: Annual Austin Picnic Announced; sponsors sought
==================================================
IGDA's Austin Chapter announced that its Annual Picnic at Richard's place will take place on Saturday, July 25. Bar B Q, Ice Cream, Cold Beer and the most fun for you and the family all summer! Once again, bigger and better than ever. Sponsorships are now open – contact Mike McShaffry at mrmike<insert @ here>mcschaffry.com for details. Want to volunteer? We can help with that too. Contact Amy Goldenburg at amy<insert @ here>goldenburg.com for information.
=============================
7: Event Action: E3, Brighton
=============================
Member discounts at upcoming events include:
- 20% member discount for E3 Expo in Los Angeles, CA (2-4 June)
- 10% member discount for Develop in Brighton, UK (14-16 July)
Full discount details and links available online:
http://www.igda.org/events/
==================
8: Columns Update
==================
Monthly columns have been updated:
Famous Last Words
-----------------
"Use of Games Music Beyond Games"
http://www.igda.org/columns/lastwords/lastwords_May09.php
Culture Clash
-------------
"Avast, Ye Scurvy Scallywag"
http://www.igda.org/columns/clash/clash_May09.php
The Games Game
--------------
"Getting nowhere fast"
http://www.igda.org/columns/gamesgame/gamesgame_May09.php
============================
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
============================
Complete list of chapter reports and upcoming meetings:
http://www.igda.org/chapters/updates.php
Berlin:
Wednesday, June 3 > Shark 3D / Interlinear Storytelling
http://igda.org/berlin/
Munich:
Wednesday, June 3 > IGDA Munich Summer Meeting
http://www.igda-munich.de/
Philadelphia:
Sunday, June 14th > New studio update
http://www.igda.org/philly/archives/2009/05/june_meeting_announcement.html
Salt Lake City:
Report, May 12 > GDC Share 2009
http://www.igda.org/slc/may09mr.htm
===================
10: 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:
- Green-Ear
- Emergent Game Technologies
- Jones and Bartlett Publishers
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 -
-------
This message was sent by: IGDA, 19 Mantua Road, Mt Royal, NJ 08061
Powered by iContact: http://freetrial.icontact.com
Manage your subscription:
http://app.icontact.com/icp/mmail-mprofile.pl?r=11519757&l=11816&s=8S17&m=95358&c=429645
Last updated:
09/28/2009 - 1:27 PM
Links
Poll
How often should the chapter meet, realistically?
| Once a month | 177 |
| Once a quarter | 100 |
Total votes: 277