The “There and back again” quest: How to conquer GDC

Ah, the Game Developers Conference, or GDC as adventurers call it – a mythical land where groundbreaking technologies are unveiled, networking opportunities abound, and legends of the game development world gather. But for the first-time attendee, GDC can feel more like a perilous quest than a conference- a vast land with uncertainty, but hasn’t every great story begun like that?

Fear not, weary traveler, we have your back! Our seasoned game UX/UI champions from PUNCHev Group have completed this quest and are ready to equip you with the required skills to do the same. This guide will infuse you with the knowledge and strategies needed to conquer GDC and emerge victorious (or at least not utterly exhausted).

The sprawling landscape of GDC

The Game Developers Conference is a realm not of castles and dragons but of three colossal buildings, united under the banner of Moscone Center: the South Hall, the North Hall, and the West Hall. The South and North Halls stand connected, a testament to the interconnectedness of the game development community. The West Hall, though a short journey away, beckons with its promise of even more treasures to discover. Be prepared, adventurer, for GDC is vast, and exploration will be key to unearthing its secrets.

Prepare strategically or face the consequences

Unlike a typical RPG quest, success at GDC hinges not just on raw power, but on cunning strategy. The greatest peril you'll face? The dreaded "meeting marathon" that takes place in so many different areas of the GDC territory (and outside of it as well). Many a valiant developer has been lost, wandering the halls for hours, having neglected to establish designated meeting spots with their companions.

Fret not, for there's a solution! Gather your party beforehand and establish strategic outposts – comfy cafes outside of Moscone, specific booths or meeting rooms, restaurants, hotel lobbies,? or landmarks – where you can regroup and plan your next move.

If you have decided to remain in the GDC halls without a predetermined meeting place for meetings, where you can reside the whole day, remember: allocate at least 30 minutes between scheduled encounters to account for travel time between the sprawling halls.

The fabled GDC venue: A haven for developers

The GDC venue itself resided within the hallowed halls of the Moscone Center for 2024, a sprawling complex in the heart of San Francisco. Descend to the lowest level of the North and South Halls, and you'll find yourself in a unified realm – a bustling marketplace of ideas, innovations, and, of course, legendary game developers. Here, you'll encounter booths showcasing the latest advancements in game development, from the powerful tools of Unity game development to the immersive worlds developed by masters of the art of Unreal Engine games.

Prepare provisions for the long road ahead

Remember, adventurers, even the mightiest heroes need sustenance. GDC is a marathon, not a sprint. Pack your bags with enough provisions to keep you fueled throughout the day. The Moscone Center offers a variety of food options, but lines can be long. Consider packing snacks or grabbing a hearty breakfast (AND plenty of water)before embarking on your quest.

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