The one thing that has remained prominent from the advent of home consoles at least until the mid-2010s is how videogames have been consumed. Through Physical media. Whether it was a cartridge, CD, UMD, or Blu-ray disc, physical media was the primary way through which games were distributed. But with technology comes evolution. The move to digital media from most companies that grew in prominence from the PS4 era, has always been met with mixed enthusiasm.

While one side of the gaming community embraced it for the convenience it offered, the other was not open to the idea, citing the numerous disadvantages it came with. Slowly, but steadily the industry seems to be moving towards an all-digital future, and this may have more implications than we think. Let’s look at why physical media is fading and what it means to gamers and game companies.

To understand what the evolution of digital distribution means to gamers and game companies’ vs physical media, we need to look at what both mediums offer from both perspectives. Let’s begin with….

Physical Media

From a consumer point of view, there is a sense of ownership with physical copies. When you buy a physical copy of a game, you own it outright and can trade, sell, or lend it to others, which is not possible with digital content. Then there is the collectability aspect of it. Physical games can become collectibles, especially limited editions or special releases, adding value to a player’s collection. Also, most physical games don’t require an internet connection to play, making them ideal for areas with poor internet connectivity.

They also eliminate the need for lengthy download times, allowing players to start playing immediately after installation. This of course means that there is no dependency on Digital Stores. Physical media isn’t subject to digital store closures or changes in licensing agreements, ensuring long-term access to the game. And consequently, there are no account dependencies. Physical copies don’t require online accounts or DRM checks, providing a sense of independence and privacy.

From a business perspective, selling physical copies allows game developers and publishers to establish partnerships with retail stores and expand distribution channels. Limited edition physical releases, collector’s editions, and merchandise associated with physical copies can generate additional revenue. Also, physical copies often have a higher perceived value than digital copies, allowing for premium pricing and increased profit margins. Companies can also cater to niche markets or collectors who prefer tangible products, potentially increasing sales.

Digital Distribution

On the flip side, for a consumer, owning digital copies of games means there is no risk of damage or loss. Physical discs can get scratched, lost, or stolen, potentially resulting in the loss of access to the game. Then there is the option for Instant access to games without the need to visit a store or wait for shipping. Gamers can also preload games before release, allowing them to play immediately upon launch. Plus, digital games can be accessed from any device linked to the player’s account, enabling gaming on multiple platforms based on the service provider.

From a business perspective, Digital distribution eliminates manufacturing, packaging, and shipping costs associated with physical media. Digital storefronts allow game development companies to reach a global audience without the need for physical distribution channels. Developers and publishers can sell games directly to consumers through digital storefronts, cutting out intermediaries and maximizing profits. Plus, the digital storefronts provide valuable data on player behavior and preferences, facilitating targeted marketing and game improvements. Digital storefronts offer flexibility in pricing, enabling dynamic pricing adjustments during sales based on demand and market conditions. Digital rights management (DRM) measures can help mitigate piracy risks, avoiding loss of revenue.

But……

Like with any product, there are also downsides to both mediums, for both the consumer and the companies that sell games.

Downsides of Both Mediums

Things like the resale value of physical games and their tendency to be prone to physical damage are among the prime concerns for a gamer who prefers physical media. While on the other side of the pond digital games heavily rely on the internet infrastructure for them to even be playable. Also, digital games cannot be resold or traded, unlike physical copies. Getting a refund on a digital copy isn’t as simple either as digital storefronts often have strict refund policies, leading to potential customer dissatisfaction and disputes. Perhaps, the most feared aspect of owning digital copies is the question of ownership rights. Ownership for digital games is often more ambiguous, as players usually purchase a license to access the game rather than owning it outright. So, if the store or platform decides to remove the game, the consumer loses it for good.

For Game companies, retail partnerships often involve revenue-sharing agreements, reducing the profit margin compared to direct digital sales. Physical distribution can also be limited by geographic location and shelf space in stores, potentially excluding gamers from regions with less access to retail outlets. Then there is the ever-looming risk of piracy as Physical copies can especially be vulnerable to it, with counterfeit copies impacting sales and brand reputation.

That said, the same can be argued for digital games too, as in some cases they reach more users wanting to use pirated copies than physical copies do. Also, the proliferation of digital storefronts has led to increased competition, making it challenging for smaller developers to stand out. Then there is the dependency on platform holders. Game companies rely on digital storefronts like Steam, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Live for distribution, subjecting them to the policies and fees imposed by platform holders.

What does this mean for the industry?

When all is said and done, the convenience offered by a digital storefront to both the customer and the company is undeniable. They far outweigh the benefits offered by physical media. However, the ambiguity of ownership of the product among gamers is real, and with recent events in the industry where an entire library of games from a certain publishing label is being removed, the arguments hold strong. Then there is the question of game preservation which can be a tough case to argue without physical media.

So, what does this mean to the average gamer? What is his best option? Well, while all signs point towards a future where digital media prevails and will contribute to most of the business, physical media will likely still be around. Companies will continue selling a product as long as there is demand for it. If it is not the game publisher, then there are companies like Limited Run that create physical copies for digital-only games. Then there are organizations like the Game Preservation Society and Video Game History Foundation, that work towards preserving older games.

Just like comic books that flourished once upon a time, then lost their audience to TV, and now exist as a niche but still important part of pop culture, physical media for games may still be present in some way or form for the foreseeable future.

Frequently Asked Questions:

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The gaming industry offers abundant opportunities for enthusiasts to turn their passion into a fulfilling career. Among these avenues lies the realm of Game Art and Design. In the competitive field of game art and design, a stellar portfolio can be your ticket to landing your dream job. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, having a compelling portfolio is essential to showcasing your skills and creativity to potential employers. Here are some tips to help you build a portfolio that stands out! 

Showcase Your Skills 

Your portfolio is the first thing any prospective employer sees, so make sure to display your best works. Choose pieces that highlight your skills and style. Additionally, focus on showcasing a few outstanding projects and avoid overwhelming your portfolio with mediocre work. Quality is more important than quantity.  

Make it Simple and Digital 

Your portfolio doesn’t need to be flashy so make sure to keep it simple. Your work will speak for you. Ensure that your portfolio is fully digital. This will allow interviewers to zoom into your work and see it from all angles.  

Diversify Your Projects 

 Game art and design is a multidisciplinary field, so it’s important to showcase a range of skills and expertise in your portfolio. Include projects that show your proficiency in different areas such as character design, environment art, concept art, 3D modeling, texturing, and animation. This will show potential employers that you have a well-rounded skill set and can tackle various aspects of game development. 

Tailor Your Portfolio 

Every prospective employer has a certain style. If you are looking for a job with a particular employer, then research their style and make sure you include a few works that fit that style. Additionally, if you are applying for a particular job in say character design, you should focus on showcasing your character design and modeling skills. Your portfolio is not static, so make sure you keep it up to date with the relevant trends too. 

Include Relevant Details 

Make sure your resume and contact details are easily available. Your hard work will go to waste if your prospective employer has no way to contact you. Your portfolio should be easy to navigate, allowing potential employers to quickly find the information they’re looking for. 

Keep it Organized 

Create separate sections for different types of work, such as character art, environment art, and concept art. Provide clear labels and descriptions for each project, including information about the tools and techniques used. Your employer must go through thousands of profiles, so making it easy to find the details they are looking for is sure to win your brownie points! 

Highlight Your Uniqueness 

Other than originality, the x-factor or uniqueness that you can contribute with your skills is what sets you apart from the rest. This spark reflects your artistic personality and while it might take time to develop, keep working on more and more projects until you find your personal style. 

Stay Current and Relevant 

The field of game art and design is constantly evolving, with new tools, techniques, and trends emerging all the time. Stay current with the latest developments in the industry and incorporate them into your portfolio to demonstrate that you’re up-to-date and relevant. 

Building a strong portfolio takes time, effort, and dedication, but it’s well worth the investment when it comes to pursuing a career in game art and design. By following the above steps, you can create a portfolio that impresses potential employers and helps you stand out in the competitive world of game development. 

Are you looking to make a mark in the realm of game art and design? Your dream job awaits. Connect with us! 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. What should be included in a game art and design portfolio? 

Your portfolio should include a variety of projects showcasing your skills in areas such as character design, environment art, concept art, 3D modeling, texturing, and animation. Choose your best work that highlights your strengths and creativity. 

2. How many pieces should be in a portfolio? 

Quality is more important than quantity. Aim to include a selection of your best work, typically around 10-15 pieces. This allows you to showcase a range of skills without overwhelming potential employers. 

3. Should I tailor my portfolio to specific job applications? 

Yes, it’s advisable to tailor your portfolio to the job you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position. Research the company and the job requirements to ensure your portfolio aligns with their needs. 

4. How should I organize my portfolio? 

Keep your portfolio well-organized and easy to navigate. Create separate sections for different types of work, such as character art, environment art, and concept art. Provide clear labels and descriptions for each project. 

The post Building a Portfolio for a Career in Game Art and Design  appeared first on iXie Gaming.

But what are some of these game development trends of 2023? Join us as we comprehensively review some of the latest game development trends of 2023 and what it means for the future.  

Top 7 Game Development Trends of 2023 

Here is a list of the top 7 biggest game development trends of 2023: 

1. Immersive Technologies 

Immersive technologies have grown significantly with time. Their applications have diversified from the healthcare sector to the gaming industry, to mention a few. The need to create deeply engaging and immersive gaming experiences is the driving power behind implementing immersive technologies in game development.  

Some commonly adopted immersive technologies are augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). In 2023, game developers have continued to explore the limitless potential of these technologies, pushing the limits of interactive gameplay.  

Immersive technologies have enabled gamers to interact in virtual worlds thanks to improved hardware capabilities. VR-enabled games treat players to more captivating, engaging, and realistic worlds. This trend shows the industry’s commitment to providing players with novel ways to interact and engage in virtual environments on a more personalized level.  

2. Cross-Platform Play 

There has been a significant increase in the number and variety of devices used by gamers. This is largely attributed to the need for more convenient gaming experiences. As a result, game developers have had to build more games that support cross-platform play in 2023. 

This trend has grown exponentially, breaking the barriers between different gaming environments. Gamers can play the same games on their laptop, console, and mobile devices, improving the portability and convenience of their gaming experiences.  

Cross-platform play fosters a sense of inclusivity and community among gamers. Also, it promotes collaboration and healthy competition and widens the potential player base. Simply put, it increases the potential number of gamers, as it provides a more unified gaming landscape that focuses on players’ preferences rather than platform limitations.  

3. Cloud Gaming 

The list of the biggest game development trends of 2023 can’t be complete without mentioning cloud gaming. Initially, gaming was pretty expensive. Players had to invest in hardware components, including consoles and other key gaming infrastructure. However, this is not the case anymore.  

Throughout 2023, the allure of cloud gaming has solidified its position in the gaming sector thanks to the availability of high-speed internet and advancements in cloud infrastructure. Instead of investing in high-end hardware, players can seamlessly stream and play their favorite games online.   

But why cloud gaming? Well, this trend democratizes gaming by minimizing entry barriers and allowing gamers to access a vast library of titles on different devices. Also, cloud gaming boosts gaming convenience since players can play from anywhere and at any time, as long as they have an active internet connection. As technology evolves, cloud gaming will reshape the sector’s landscape, promote accessibility, and redesign how gamers engage with their favorite games.  

4. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning  

Artificial intelligence AI and machine learning (ML) are two transformative technologies with significant potential to revolutionize the gaming industry. The integration of these technologies into game development has reached new heights in 2023.  

Game developers harness AI and ML to create more responsive and immersive technologies. AI-powered non-player characters (NPCs) exhibit improved capabilities and behaviors. They can adapt dynamically to players’ strategies and actions. For instance, in the pool billiards pro game, the player can play against a “computer” – an AI-powered NPC. What’s more, you can select the difficulty level for a more challenging gaming experience.  

Additionally, ML algorithms are used to tailor gameplay, adjust challenges, and predict player preferences in real time. This trend has revolutionized the gaming experience by crafting quests, narratives, and landscapes that respond uniquely to each gamer.  

5. Mobile Gaming  

Mobile gaming has become a trend in modern times. Statista predicts that the number of mobile gamers will reach 2.3 billion by 2027 – that’s more than a quarter of the total population globally.  

To meet the increasing demand for mobile games, game developers have created more mobile-compatible games in 2023. These games have shorter play sessions and simpler game mechanics. As a result, they can run smoothly on mobile devices with limited computational power.  

6. Eco-Friendly Game Development 

Climate change has been the talk of the town over the past few years. Experts in different niches, including game development, agree to one course – reducing their carbon footprint. As a result, the gaming sector’s commitment to eco-friendly solutions has heightened in 2023.  

Game developers are increasingly becoming conscious of their environmental footprint. This has resulted in the implementation of sustainable measures across game development and distribution processes.  

Some eco-friendly measures taken in game development include:  

• Using eco-conscious packaging materials. 
• Optimizing game engines for energy efficiency. 
• Minimizing packaging waste through digital or cloud distribution. 
• Some studios use renewable energy sources to power game servers and data centers. 

With more players becoming environmentally conscious, undertaking eco-friendly game development initiatives resonates positively. This trend shows a collective commitment to responsible game development to minimize ecological impact.  

7. Hyper-Casual Gaming 

Hardcore gamers often prefer complex and intricate games that are time-consuming and effort intensive. However, not everyone is a hardcore gamer. And that’s where hyper-casual games come in.  

These games are straightforward to play. Also, they are played in short bursts, making them convenient for casual gamers. With more users playing games during their daily activities, such as commuting and even in the toilet, the demand for hyper-casual games has significantly increased in 2023.  

This has resulted in more hyper-casual games being released. These games are more accessible to numerous players, as they’re not resource intensive. As we look into the future, more hyper-casual games might be created thanks to the increasing demand for on-the-go entertainment.  

Final Thoughts 

Game development has experienced tremendous growth and new trends in 2023. This is attributed to the growing tech advancements and demand for convenience. Also, the players have become more environmentally conscious. This has driven game development toward embracing eco-friendly initiatives. Therefore, as technology grows and new demands emerge, game developers must stay updated and adopt the latest technologies to meet new trends. This will help them thrive and remain relevant in the market. 

The post The Biggest Game Development Trends of 2023  appeared first on iXie Gaming.

Read on to understand what it takes to become a gaming wizard and what they call in gaming circles, a legend! 

Video games make you feel alive 

An incredible passion for gaming and all things around it is the number one requisite for acing a job in this competitive industry. The feeling that you’re doing something you love and something that is worthwhile for a living will catapult your career trajectory by driving you to put your best foot forward and realize your potential. 

Creativity is your middle name 

Creativity is not something that always comes naturally, it can be organically developed and made part of who you are. The minute you broaden your perspective and allow yourself to think out of the box, you are automatically a creative person. This creativity will go a long way in ensuring your work never hits a dull patch and what you have to offer is as unique as who you are as a person. Your work will essentially represent your unique brand of thought process and creativity. 

You look at problems as opportunities 

An inherent knack for problem-solving is a gamer’s bread and butter. Every time you hit a roadblock, face the challenge, and fire the bugs with brilliant and maybe even eccentric solutions.  

The best-made products often arise out of the most distinctive ideas! 

Your people skills are off the charts 

Teamwork and your ability to network can prove to be your biggest assets in making a mark for yourself in the gaming industry. The more you interact with people, the more comfortable you will be while working as a team. Nothing stands out like teamwork when it comes to creating something from scratch. The diverse culture and remarkable viewpoints that you choose to enrich yourself with will only make you a better gamer at the core, leaving your work and contribution unparalleled. 

You can switch to zen mode like a pro 

Focus and patience are virtues that will become super handy in the gaming industry. Your hours of undivided attention and deep work will make a huge difference in your prowess as a game developer, tester and so on… For times when things don’t go your way, make patience and perseverance your best friends! 

You know how to get your point across  

Even in gaming roles that are not primarily based on writing or oratory skills, having good communication enables you to be clear in setting goals and expectations, while also helping you market yourself better. 

You’re scared of outdated trends 

Keeping track of latest industry developments and updates can also play a vital role in keeping your work fresh and relevant. 

Upskill, reskill and be open to any new information that comes your way. Every skill that you work to develop will only make you an upgraded version of yourself!  

A promising, challenging and rewarding place in the gaming industry awaits you,  

what are you waiting for? 

The post Essential Skills Needed for a Career in the Gaming Industry  appeared first on iXie Gaming.

As wearable gaming technology advances, developers face new opportunities and challenges to create immersive experiences. With the rise of AR, VR, and fitness-based games, wearables are transforming how we engage with games. The future promises even more exciting developments as wearable technology continues to evolve, shaping the future of gaming experiences. This article explores the growing popularity of wearables, advancements in wearable gaming tech, and emerging trends.

The Growing Popularity of Wearable Technology

Wearable technology has surged in popularity, revolutionizing multiple sectors and reshaping our daily lives. From fitness trackers to smartwatches and VR headsets to smart glasses, wearables have become integral parts of our routines. Here are some examples of the most common wearable technology:

Smart Watches: These devices offer features like fitness tracking, notifications, messaging, music control, and mobile app integration.

Fitness Trackers: These devices monitor metrics such as steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, and heart rate during physical activities.

VR Headsets: Virtual Reality headsets provide immersive experiences by placing the user in a virtual environment. It’s often used for gaming, entertainment, or training purposes.

AR Glasses: Augmented Reality glasses overlay digital information onto the real world, enhancing the user’s perception and interaction with their surroundings.

Smart Clothing: This includes garments and accessories embedded with sensors or conductive threads, enabling functions like tracking biometrics, monitoring posture, or adjusting temperature.

Smart Jewelry: Fashionable accessories like rings, bracelets, or necklaces that incorporate technology such as fitness tracking, notification alerts, or contactless payment capabilities.

Smart Glasses: These eyewear devices, like Google Glass, provide hands-free access to information, notifications, and navigation, displaying a small screen in the wearer’s field of vision.

Advancements in Wearable Gaming Technology

Innovative technologies that enhance the gaming experience have emerged over the years. One such area that has seen significant progress is wearable gaming technology. Wearable gaming devices are changing the way we interact with games, while expanding the boundaries of traditional gaming. The following are recent advancements in wearable gaming technology and their impact on the gaming industry.

1. Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets: With advancements in display resolution, field of view, and tracking technology, VR headsets now offer more realistic and detailed visuals, making the virtual world feel even more believable.

2. Augmented Reality (AR) Glasses: AR glasses overlay digital content onto the user’s view of the physical environment, creating interactive and dynamic gaming experiences. Recent advancements in AR glasses have resulted in improved tracking, better field of view, and enhanced graphics, enabling more seamless and immersive AR gaming experiences.

3. Motion Tracking and Haptic Feedback: Wearable gaming devices now incorporate advanced motion tracking and haptic feedback technologies to enhance player interaction. Motion sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, enable precise tracking of a player’s movements, allowing them to control the game through gestures or body motions.

4. Smart Watches and Fitness Trackers: Smartwatches and fitness trackers are no longer limited to monitoring health and fitness; they have evolved into gaming accessories as well. These wearable devices can act as secondary screens or controllers, providing additional information or interactive elements during gameplay.

5. Biometric Sensors and Emotion Detection: Advancements in wearable gaming technology also include the integration of biometric sensors and emotion detection systems. These devices can monitor physiological indicators such as heart rate, skin conductance, and facial expressions to gauge the player’s emotional state and tailor the gameplay accordingly.

Impact of Wearable Tech on Game Development

The impact of wearable technology on game development has been significant, leading to a disruption of traditional approaches. Game developers now find themselves at the crossroads of exciting opportunities and unique challenges as they create games specifically tailored for wearable devices.

One of the key advantages for game developers lies in the ability to explore and implement innovative gameplay mechanics that take full advantage of the unique features offered by wearables. For instance, they can use motion sensors and biometric data tracking capabilities to create immersive and interactive gaming experiences.

However, developing games for wearable devices also come with certain limitations and design constraints. Wearable screens tend to be smaller, requiring developers to carefully consider the user interface and optimize the visual presentation to ensure optimal gaming experiences. Additionally, wearable devices may have limited processing power compared to traditional gaming platforms, which means developers need to optimize their games to ensure smooth performance and minimal latency.

Emerging Trends and Applications

Emerging trends in wearable gaming are pushing the boundaries of immersive experiences and redefining how players engage with games. One of these trends is the integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into wearable devices. AR overlays digital elements in the real world, creating interactive and engaging gaming experiences. VR, on the other hand, transports players to virtual environments, offering a truly immersive gaming adventure. There is also a growing use of VR in language learning games to simulate authentic environments for language practice.

Fitness-based games that utilize wearables for tracking physical activities have gained significant traction. These games encourage players to be active by incorporating real-time data from wearables like fitness trackers or smartwatches. They provide incentives, challenges, and rewards based on the user’s performance, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle while enjoying gaming. We have offered VR game testing services to many fitness-based games here at iXie.

Wearables are also finding applications in various game genres beyond fitness. Role-playing games, adventure games, and puzzle games are incorporating wearable technology to enhance player engagement and immersion. Wearables can provide haptic feedback, motion tracking, or biometric data integration, allowing players to interact with the game world in new and exciting ways.

Conclusion

Wearable technology is undoubtedly a rising trend in game development in 2023. The increasing popularity and their impact on game development are reshaping the industry. As game developers explore the potential of wearables, we can anticipate thrilling and immersive gaming experiences that blend the virtual and real world. Embracing this trend will undoubtedly shape the gaming landscape in the years to come.

Planning to deliver engaging and highly immersive games to players worldwide? iXie would be the right choice with massive experience in the gaming industry over the past decade.

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Video games on various platforms like Gameboys, consoles, personal computers, and mobile phones being mere sources of entertainment are now officially a matter of the past. Today, in this day and age of gamification and fast developing technology-based education and growth, it prides itself of being the genesis of a thriving multi-million-dollar industry! 

Your love for gaming doesn’t have to be a hobby anymore, there are so many compelling ways of converting that passion into a viable career option. It’s a win-win; It’s not every day that you get to do what you love for a living!  

Like any other product, video games go through a lifecycle that starts with conceptualization and ends with purchases made by users of various demographic groups. There are opportunities that could interest you in every stage of this gaming lifecycle! 

If your interest lies in creating a world whose magic exists only in your head, the much-coveted position in today’s gaming market, Game Designer, is the right fit for you! You could also help make the game more interesting with lines for the character, riveting copy and memorable punch lines by becoming a Game Writer. Want to revolutionize the gaming world with your personal brand of colours, imagination and creativity? You could choose to become a 2D or 3D Game Artist. We all know someone who inhales and exhales codes and loves creating algorithms that just click! If they also enjoy contributing to the magical world of video games, then becoming a Game Developer seems like the most obvious choice!  

Every character in a video game has a life and spirit to itself, they have a USP that makes them stand out and capture gamers’ hearts. This has a lot to do with the character’s gait, stance, their actions and the way they carry out the gamer’s commands. Wondering who is behind the scenes of such defining characters? The one you’re looking for is a Game Animator! If all you want is to play games and come up with multiple ways in which you would want it to be better, then there’s no one more suited to be a Game Tester than you! As in every industry, there is always the need for a Support & Business Enablement Group to ensure the smooth flow of process. This could be your place if you a dream of a workspace that is charged with the electric vibes of an office that has gamers buzzing through the day! 

To summarise what we’ve learnt today, these are some gaming jobs that you can apply to: 

1. Game Designer  

What you’ll do: Come up with the concept, storyline and course of the game. 

2. Game Writer 

What you’ll do: Write lines for the characters, pop-ups and messages in the game 

3. 2D/3D Game Artist 

What you’ll do: Create the characters, props and backgrounds of the game. 

4. Game Developer 

What you’ll do: Create the algorithm and code for the game 

5. Game Animator 

What you’ll do: Use the Game Artist’s output to create animations and graphics for the game. 

6. Game Tester  

What you’ll do: Test the features of the game, identify glitches and bugs on various platforms like mobile phones, consoles and PCs. 

7. Game Support Team 

What you’ll do: Oversee the overall well-being of employees, ensure a wonderful employee experience and enable them to perform to the best of their abilities 

“Make the switch to a world like none other, the Gaming Universe awaits your entry!” 

The post Build a Lucrative Career in the Gaming Industry appeared first on iXie Gaming.

One more thing before we get into our list. This list is based on personal experiences and opinions, so something that may have been the high point for a lot of people may not feature in this list. For example, the announcement of Shenmue III will not feature here as I never had a Sega Dreamcast and never got to play Shenmue I and II. So I can’t get behind the hype of the newly announced game. With that out of the way, let’s move on to our list.

8 – Uncharted 2 Demo – E3 2009

2009 was a special year for Sony. It’s PS3 was finally catching up after a disastrous launch and the heavy hitting games were just around the corner helping Sony boost sales. One such heavy hitter was Uncharted 2. The demo at E3 2009 showcased what the PS3 can do and more importantly, marked the evolution of games back in the day. This game was leaps and bound ahead of its predecessor. From the rooftop helicopter battle to Nathan Drakes quips, to the climactic battle in the crumbling building, this demo was a PS3 owner’s dream come true back in the day. And the game still holds up today which is a testament in itself.

7 – Gabe Newall at Sony’s conference – E3 2010

The Jesus of Steam and Valve’s head made an appearance at the Sony conference in 2010. While this sounds like a random executive attending a conference, things could not have been any different. The then-struggling PS3 had its fair share of flack thrown at it by developers as well, thanks to the complicated development process using the cell processor. Among them was Valve’s Gabe Newall. However Gabe went a step further to declare that he had no interest in developing games for Sony’s platform as it was “rubbish”. So it was a pleasant surprise for everyone when he appeared on Sony’s conference a few months later and began with “Hi, I’m Gabe. I’ve said a few things before.” And then went on to announce Portal 2 for the PS3. This was another moment indicating the shifting tides for Sony in the years that followed. Needless to say, this was a dream come true moment for a PlayStation fan like me.

6 – Konami Press conference – E3 2009

Back when Konami was not “Public Enemy no.1” it had maintained a decent slew of titles in various genres to keep the gaming public happy. To showcase these titles Konami had their own press conference in 2009. And what a mess of a conference it was. This list was intended to look at all the good moments from E3, and sitting though Konami conference at the time was nowhere close to a comfortable experience. However fast forward 9 years and when you look back in 2018, what you have is comedy gold from a notorious company that does not give a fudge about its consumers. From Lucha wrestlers slapping each other to an earsplitting musical performance, a dance demo which left the developer gasping for air, another dev pausing every sentence for applause followed by awkward silences, lighting and sound errors, and who could forget the infamous ‘Psycho stare’. This conference had everything going against it. The conference is as hilarious now as it was uncomfortable back then. If you have not seen this, I highly recommend that you find this rare gem of a conference from any corner of the internet and treat yourself.

5 – Ubisoft conference – E3 2017

Ubisoft surprised everyone in 2017. After a roller coaster ride that was E3 2016 namely from Sony, there was no way that 2017 could reach those heights. And no thanks to my prediction Sony did underwhelm last year and Microsoft’s conference quickly turned into a meme machine thanks to the overuse of the word “EXCLUSIVE”. Step in Ubisoft to save the day (or year) who delivered a pleasantly surprising conference. This was the year Ubisoft ACTUALLY showed signs that they do care, at least about the image of the company. For a company known for aggressive microtransactions and downgraded graphics in launched products that shined on E3 conferences, Ubisoft wanted to appear as a more consumer-friendly company. And they did just that. The regular host Aisha Tyler was ditched so the executives themselves could take the stage, and this worked. From a teary-eyed developer unveiling Beyond Good or Evil 2 to Ubisoft and Nintendo heads standing back to back with prototypes of Mario vs Rabbids weapons, and a revamped and more focused Assasin’s Creed, this conference surprised everyone and actually turned out to be better than its competitors last year.

4 – Unveiling PS4 – E3 2013

2013 was an exciting time to be a console gamer. This was the time when the shift to the then ‘next-gen’ was happening. Both Microsoft and Sony had unveiled their consoles with a price tag and teasers to upcoming games. But the similarities between Microsoft and Sony end right there. The XBOX One while announced a few months earlier, was given a price tag just the day prior to Sony’s conference. And the way it was all delivered is hurting Microsoft even today. Non-consumer-friendly practices, like always online, DRM, Kinect attached, and mandatory check in every 24 hours, complicated and restrictive used game policies, were pushed down the throat followed by a hefty price tag of $499. Of course, this was great for Sony, and they had a field day at E3 2013. Sony attacked almost all of the above fails from Microsoft, going so far as to make an instructional video for sharing used games which lasted 10 seconds (One man hands the game to another, and the video ends). Sony then announced the price for the PS4 at $399. Whether you are a PlayStation, Xbox or PC gamer, you will agree that this conference was an entertaining corporate fisticuff that Sony emerged victorious out of. And Sony is reaping the benefits to this day.

3 – Hideo Kojima – E3 2016

Sony’s 2016 conference could fill up this list completely. It was the strongest and the most fan-pleasing event yet. One that set new standards and changed the way companies look at E3. Of all things in that conference, 2 things stood out. We will discuss the other one later, but the one I want to bring up here is the appearance of Hideo Kojima. After the turmoil that transpired with Konami resulting in the demise of Kojima’s brainchild – the Metal gear franchise, Kojima had been off the grid. These events were as saddening as they were shocking and showed how a corporation can undermine and destroy creativity and creators. Enter Sony. Sony collaborated with Kojima getting him a studio and Guerilla games’ Decima graphics engine, and got him to do what he does best. Of course, all of this was under wraps for a surprise at E3. And what a surprise it was. Watching Kojima march down the stage to the tunes of Mad Max – Fury Road, followed by him uttering the words “Hello everyone… I’m Back” in his broken English, gave me and many gamers goosebumps. And that wasn’t all. He immediately announced his next game Death Stranding followed by a trailer which was enchanting and confusing in true Kojima fashion. This was a moment for the history books.

2 – Kevin Butler makes an appearance – E3 2010

I struggled to decide between entries 3 and 2 and settled that this moment definitely deserves the better spot. If 2016 was Sony’s best year, the one prior to that was in 2010. And the one moment that sticks out in peoples mind is the appearance of Sony’s fictional “VP of everything” the one and only Kevin Butler. Portrayed by actor Jerry Lambert, Kevin Butler was a character who appeared in various PlayStation adverts as VP of various fictional departments (VP of testing cars, VP of sharp things, VP of action adventures). These ads really hit the spot with the fans and they wanted to see him in E3. But the E3 roster was only comprised of actual Sony executives. Kevin crashed the party during a seemingly boring keynote about a Coca-Cola collaboration. And he delivered. The next 5 minutes resonates with everyone who has even the slightest sliver of passion for gaming. While this was a pitch for the Move controller aimed at satire, it was also everything a gamer wanted to hear in a time when gaming as a whole was still struggling to be accepted as a legitimate form of art and had an image problem. Just look up for some Kevin Butler PS3 ads to get some context, and then look for Kevin Butler at E3 2010 and enjoy what you see and hear.

1 – God of War – E3 2016

You saw this coming when you read entry number 3. What can I say about this? Sony’s conference in 2016 revolutionized E3, and how the world and other game companies look at it. Sony’s realization about the pedigree of the event and its commitment to deliver and stand out from the crowd really showed throughout the whole hour and a half the conference lasted. And it began with perhaps the strongest opener in E3 history. Complete with an orchestra and a track from the game, God of War was unveiled to the world. And it was a combination of the presentation, the impact of the orchestra and the radically different and wonderful take on the game that created the magic, setting the tone for the rest of the show. This was a moment I personally was not ready for but took in every second of it with a grin on my face. And I know there are millions who share my emotion. When we look back now we can realize that this was a pivotal moment to the industry as God of War has emerged as one of the best-reviewed games with quotes like “New standard for the Industry” thrown in regularly in its reviews. This E3 moment was one for the ages, and I hope that more of these are made in E3s to come.

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To give an idea of what a Game tester’s day looks like, we are talking about a guy who goes by the gamer tag ‘Dalda’

The first job I got was in company, one of whose Executive was a friend’s Uncle. Knowing the bunch of us and our addiction to gaming we got offered a job.

Worst part would be, after working for a whole day on a game, I ended up dreaming myself as a character stuck in the game and being unable to clear the level to get out!

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