In July, our Futures Department Lead, Oli Blackwell, attended Develop Brighton. The UK’s biggest games development conference and expo, bringing together the entire game-making community for three days of talks, networking, and industry celebration. This is what he has to say about his experience:
Attending Develop Brighton was an extremely great chance to hear from current and aspiring developers, about their experiences first hand of working within many different sectors of the gaming industry. There are obviously worries about the stability of the games development industry after many different layoffs, even from larger companies, but this is seemingly being amplified by an echo chamber of the same people who are struggling to get into it, as there are still many AAA studios hiring, as well as opportunities to work in AA or Indie studios.
There does seem to be a shift in how a lot of larger AAA companies are carrying out employment, rather than full time employment, they are hiring contractors who will work there for the duration of development time of a game. The contract will then end and they’re looking for another contract. This isn’t great for stability, but actually allows people to get their name in many different games, with many different companies. It means you’ll have more freedom and flexibility.
During some of the many discussions I was involved in with different people within the industry, they all said the same thing. “Networking is so crucial.” Knowing people who are either already in the industry, or others who are also wanting to break into the industry allows you to get your foot in the door. It allows you to start conversations, build relationships, share your work, and become recognised. There are many Indie / AA companies that aren’t actually posting jobs, even though they are hiring. This is because they already know people who are capable and are looking for work showing how networking will create opportunities for you.
Networking, however daunting, is a crucial part of the gaming industry. Meeting other developers, creating links with studios, and getting your name out there, is one of the best ways to progress within the industry. You will find so many wonderful people who share the same passion, and the same interests because you are all there for one reason, which is games! The conference is a brilliant opportunity and tool to meet new people as well as connect with people who you might already know. On my first night attending the conference, I ended up at dinner with seven people who I had never met before. But this allowed me to meet seven new people who all shared the same passion I have for games development.
As someone who suffers from anxiety, and who dislikes large crowds, I have never felt more welcomed by a community of people than I have while attending Develop Brighton and I am now very excited to attend next year too.
