Game Developers Conference Collaborates with AI Summit New York to Advance NYC’s Game Development and Generative AI Understanding
The Game Developers Conference (GDC), renowned as the world’s largest and longest-running event dedicated to the art and science of game creation, is teaming up with The AI Summit New York for the first time. The partnership, in collaboration with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME), the NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), and New York City Tourism + Conventions, will present GDC @ The AI Summit New York on December 11-12, 2024, at the Javits Convention Center. The initiative aims to spotlight the evolving role of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in game development and showcase New York City’s growing presence as a hub for innovation and digital creativity.
GDC @ The AI Summit New York consists of two major components: GDC Stage and GDC Zone. These segments are designed to engage the gaming community, explore the future of game development, and demonstrate the impactful integration of AI technologies in this rapidly evolving field.
GDC Stage: A Hub for Insightful Discussions and Industry Expertise
The GDC Stage will feature a two-day series of presentations, panel discussions, and talks led by industry leaders from prominent companies like The New York Times, Google Cloud, and more. These sessions will explore the role of generative AI in game development, providing an in-depth look at its current and future applications. Topics will cover successful case studies of AI deployment in game development, the regulatory landscape, and emerging tools that can help game developers use AI more effectively in their work.
The stage will also host a Game Developers Reception, offering networking opportunities for the gaming ecosystem to connect with industry peers, share knowledge, and build relationships. This event marks an essential moment for professionals from diverse sectors of game development to unite and explore how AI will transform the creative process.
GDC Zone: Exhibitions and Interactive Demos
Adjacent to the GDC Stage will be GDC Zone, an exhibition space dedicated to showcasing the innovative technologies and tools driving the future of game development. The zone will feature companies like Kinetix, known for creating AI-powered emote creators, and Couchbase, a leading software company. More exhibitors will be announced as the event approaches, ensuring attendees have access to the latest advancements in gaming technology and AI tools.
In addition to the exhibition space, GDC Zone will also serve as a platform for sponsorship opportunities, allowing brands to align with top innovators in the game development and AI space. Sponsors will have the chance to engage with industry leaders and demonstrate their contributions to shaping the future of game development.
A Vision for the Future of NYC’s Game Development and AI Integration
“Since GDC began more than 35 years ago, the event has expanded the understanding and appreciation of the craft of game development,” said Stephenie Hawkins, Event Director of GDC. “Now, with the rise of generative AI technology, there’s no better time to explore this transformative shift in creativity. The AI Summit New York provides the perfect platform for diving into the future of AI in the game development industry, and we are excited to see how NYC’s growing talent pool will contribute to the evolving landscape of game development.”
New York City has long been a global center of innovation, and the partnership between GDC and The AI Summit New York is a testament to the city’s growing influence in the tech and entertainment sectors. Pat Swinney Kaufman, Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “The Digital Games industry is a major job creator and contributor to NYC’s economy, and the summit will inspire new ideas and foster career opportunities at the intersection of game development and AI.”
Jonathan Schulhof, Executive Vice President of Innovation Industries at NYCEDC, also expressed excitement about the collaboration: “As the digital gaming community in New York City continues to expand, we’re thrilled to partner with GDC at this year’s AI Summit. New York City is at the forefront of AI innovation, and the game development community will play a central role in shaping the future of this technology.”
Looking Ahead: GDC 2025 and Beyond
This event is just a precursor to the highly anticipated Game Developers Conference 2025, which will take place at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco from March 17-21, 2025. The flagship event will feature more than 1,000 experienced speakers, 700 sessions, workshops, roundtable discussions, and networking events, alongside 345 exhibitors on the GDC Expo floor. This year’s event will continue GDC’s mission to bring together the game development community and explore the latest trends, technologies, and tools in the industry.
By partnering with The AI Summit New York, GDC is not only furthering its commitment to pushing the boundaries of game development but also helping to build a bridge between the worlds of AI and gaming. With an ever-expanding digital ecosystem and a thriving community of creators, New York City is poised to become a key player in the future of game development powered by generative AI.
