Press Start! Unpacking DTLA's Premier Gaming Event: Summer Game Fest

By AGBOVERSE Staff

‍This year, the vibrant streets of Downtown Los Angeles were alive with digital artistry and interactive experiences as Summer Game Fest: Play Days and Day of Devs showcased the dynamic evolution of the gaming industry. Summer Game Fest kicked off with a digital showcase with new announcements such as Civilization 7, LEGO Horizon Adventures, a first look at the Among Us animated series, and news that Riot's shooter Valorant is finally coming to Xbox and PlayStation were few among the many. The 3-day event not only highlighted the latest technological advancements, but also the wonderful diversity in the video game community, from genres to developers and beyond. 

In an exclusive interview, AGBOVERSE sat down with Amanda White and Jon M. Gibson, the creative minds behind iam8bit, which produced Summer Game Fest: Play Days and are co-founders of the celebrated Day of Devs, to dive deep into the origins and visions of these influential gaming events. Amanda and Jon, known for their passion and innovation, shared captivating insights about their journey and the collaborative spirit that drives their success.

Day of the Devs: Amplifying Indie Voices

Co-founded by Amanda White and Jon M. Gibson of iam8bit, along with game developer Double Fine, Day of the Devs has become a key event in the gaming calendar, especially noted for its commitment to elevating independent game developers. This initiative seamlessly aligns with the broader objectives of Summer Game Fest by providing a platform for indie games from diverse creators across the globe. White & Gibson emphasized, "We're dedicated to shining a spotlight on indie developers, helping them break through the noise of the bigger players." Day of the Devs is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization offering these developers a crucial showcase, free of charge, supported entirely by sponsorships which include some heavyweight names in the industry.

White and Gibson have helped to propel Day of the Devs into a significant movement within the gaming world, focusing on the artistry and narrative innovation that smaller studios bring to the table. Their efforts ensure that these developers receive the exposure and resources typically reserved for larger companies, thereby democratizing access to the market and audiences.

Summer Game Fest: Bridging Communities

Summer Game Fest expanded its reach this year by incorporating not just digital showcases of upcoming games but also ‘Play Days’—an invite-only event that allowed media and creators hands-on time with new titles. Geoff Keighley, the producer and host of the  Summer Game Fest digital showcase, collaborated with White and Gibson on a collective vision for a moment for the gaming industry to unite, from AAA publishers to indie developers.

Summer Game Fest: Play Days had the e neighborhood buzzing with an additional layer of synergy, highlighting how physical spaces can serve as vital grounds for fostering creative collaboration. The setting allowed for a blend of digital interaction with the tangible energy of in-person exchanges, reflecting the dynamic shift in how gaming communities engage post-pandemic. 

Looking Forward

As technology and storytelling techniques continue to evolve, events like Day of the Devs and Summer Game Fest are crucial in shaping the future of gaming and storytelling. They not only provide a platform for showcasing the latest innovations but also foster a sense of community among creators, players, and industry leaders. 

“The evolution of storytelling in games is no different than that of film or television. With new technology comes new wrappers within which to present narrative, but at the heart of all games is immersion. Technology helps to deepen the potential of how long and graphically robust those stories are.” says White & Gibson. 

And the success of these events on AGBO’s campus is a testament to the interconnected nature of the entertainment industry and the role of physical spaces in enhancing digital and creative interactions.

As we move forward, the influence of Amanda White, Jon M. Gibson, and their initiatives like Day of the Devs, alongside expansive festivals like Summer Game Fest, will undoubtedly continue to impact the gaming industry. Their work ensures that gaming remains at the forefront of cultural and technological innovation, making it an exciting time for creators and players alike. All in all, this weekend proved games are for everyone, so what’s yours? 

Stay tuned to AGBOVERSE for more!