Tickets for the New Zealand Game Developers Conference (NZGDC) 2024 are now available, with options for established developers and students to gain entry to the annual event. As in past years, NZGDC aims to be a celebration of New Zealand game development, with talks, panels, and networking events designed to connect and upskill the local game dev community.
This year’s show is themed around the topic “From Past to Future” with a focus on evolution in game development. It’s actually the 20th anniversary of NZGDC, and as part of celebrations, various speakers will share insights and retrospection on the history of games and screen in New Zealand, and “reflect on the remarkable journey the NZ industry has undertaken over the past two decades; while simultaneously exploring the exciting possibilities and innovations that lie ahead in the future.”
Across NZGDC, creatives and technologists will share more about the game development process in various talks and panels, all of which are designed to “celebrate the fusion of creativity and technology shaping the future of entertainment.”
A range of speakers have already been confirmed for the event, including folks from Wētā FX, Wētā Workshop, PikPok, Aggro Crab, Black Salt Games, Niantic, Riot Games, PlaySide Studios, Game Consulting, A44 Games, Lightstorm Entertainment, NZGDA, and more.
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They’ll talk on a range of panels charting concepts like studio wellbeing, effective pitching, narrative and world-building, scaling studios, the impact of production, AI models, audio design, character design, handheld gaming, and much more. The full schedule is now up for a browse, so those planning to attend can scope their best options for making the most of the event.
Beyond these panels and talks, NZGDC will also play host to hands-on opportunities, with a range of New Zealand-made games set to feature in the Kiwi Interactive Showcase. This event will run on 18-19 October, providing opportunity to engage with emerging works.
Those keen to find out more about NZGDC 2024 can find it on the NZGDC website, alongside tickets and pricing info. For a quick rundown, NZGDA members can expect to pay NZD $300 for a full conference pass, while non-NZGDA members can expect to pay NZD $550 for the same. There’s also single day passes, student day passes, and other affordable options to keep NZGDC accessible for everyone.
NZGDC 2024 takes place from 17-19 October 2024 at the Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre in Wellington, New Zealand.
