The editors of GamesBeat, a division of VentureBeat, have announced the “Battle Royal” as the theme of GamesBeat 2013, its fifth-annual conference on disruption and innovation in the video game market. The event,which attracts the gaming industry’s top 500 movers and shakers, will be held on October 29-30 at Hotel Sofitel in Redwood City.
“It’s a confusing time for gamemakers. Where should they take their games What platforms will provide the best gaming experiences Who will make them the most money ” said Dean Takahashi, Co-Organizer, GamesBeat 2013 and Lead Game Writer, GamesBeat, the gaming news division of VentureBeat.
Takahashi told the [a]list daily that two new speakers have been added to the lineup. Veteran Designer Will Wright will moderate a Q&A with Victor Kislyi, the CEO of Wargaming. Wright has become addicted to World of Tanks, explained Takahashi, so this should be an interesting session. Also added is Sony Online Entertainment president John Smedley, who will sit down for a fireside chat with Takahashi.
“With this conference, we will create a forum that will enable various stakeholders to navigate an uncertain terrain,” Takahashi said. “You’ll meet executives and developers from the big game companies and the startups that matter. They’ll share their 360-degree perspectives on the business of gaming and give you a glimpse of what’s to come. We’ll also have invaluable insight from venture capitalists, investors, support firms, marketers, and more.”
Key participants in the event include Bing Gordon, partner at KPCB; Frank Gibeau, President of EA Labels; John Riccitiello, former EA CEO and private investor; Kevin Chou, co-founder & CEO of Kabam; Robin Hunicke, founder of Funomena; Tim Chang, partner at Mayfield Fund; Tony Bartel, president of GameStop; and Geoff Keighley, host of GTTV on Spike TV.
GamesBeat 2013 will be held at Hotel Sofitel in Redwood City, Oct. 29-30. The event information says “Whether you’re an executive, game publisher, investor, developer, retailer, or analyst, GamesBeat will help you make sense of market challenges, and like all VB events, you’ll benefit from plenty of high-level networking opportunities.”
For tickets and special early-bird pricing, along with the complete list of participants, go here.