The postponement of GDC threw a wrench in the plans game developers around the world. Now, the Game Developers Conference has announced GDC Summer, a brand-new "unique" experience that blends the old and new.
There's one tiny problem with this conference: a lot of the planned content from developers will be (or already has been) released online for free. That's why GDC is going to be making this a sort of hybrid event, partially featuring developer talks and partially focusing on roundtable discussions, microtalks, and fireside chats.
Topics will include how developers can pitch games, effective communication strategies, how to land an investor or publisher, and business development strategies. A community partnership program will also be debuting to better assist game developers who are looking for good advice on the gaming industry.
"GDC Summer will give the game development community a chance to come together in a way that hasn’t currently been possible due to COVID-19," the announcement stated. "Safety remains the GDC organizers’ paramount concern and the GDC team will continue to monitor the latest information from health officials to ensure a safe and compelling event for everyone at GDC Summer, GDC 2021 and beyond."
While it might not be a perfect replacement for the traditional conference, GDC Summer is looking to do what it can to have some kind of event this year. That is, of course, assuming that the problems with the coronavirus are over by then.
When Can You Attend GDC Summer 2020?
If you think all of the coronavirus problems will be settled by then, you'll be able to check out this new GDC event on August 5–6, 2020. As before, the event will be taking place in San Francisco, California.
Attendees can pick up a pass at prices ranging from $99–$599. They're not available just yet, though — head to the GDC Summer 2020 website to subscribe and get updates on when ticket sales open up.
Read more about how the COVID-19 novel coronavirus is affecting the gaming world at our Coronavirus Gaming Convention Cancellations and Game Delays Hub.
Will you attend GDC Summer 2020? What do you think of the Game Developers Conference rescheduling their event nearly six months later? Let us know in the comments below!
