Developing Community

Moderator: Rich Weil, Kaneva
Panelist: Charles Manning, PLAYXPERT
Panelist: Alexander Macris, Themis Group, Inc.
Panelist: Craig T. Dalrymple, Sony Online Entertainment
Panelist: Geoffrey “GZ” Zatkin, EEDAR (Electronic Entertainment Design and Research)

In an effort to create and maintain user communities, the new generation of online gaming services has adapted many features from massively multiplayer games and social networking sites. Chat and matchmaking are no longer enough; modern users demand identities in place of anonymity, intelligent matchmaking, friendship development mechanisms and shared goals. Join us for an examination of virtual communities, retention mechanisms, viral advertising and the transformation of anonymous online users into vibrant social communities.

Intended Audience: Game designers, producers, marketing, community support and anyone else interested in helping their game or service to obtain and/or retain a larger community.
Prerequisites: None
Format: Panel
Date/Time: Friday, 10:00 AM
Room: Congress