The 2022 Game Developers Conference (GDC 2022) will begin soon, and you're going to attend it.
Whether this is your first time attending the event or is already a GDC veteran, it wouldn't hurt to come prepared for the event.
Here are a few tips for you to prepare for and enjoy this year's GDC and its future iterations.
Bring Your Essentials
Let's start with the basics of every event, GDC or otherwise. Writing materials like pens and paper can be a lifesaver when you need something to write or take down notes. Meanwhile, a pair of good walking shoes will help keep feet comfortable while walking around the GDC's venue.
People may also find that a fully charged power bank for portable charging or an extra charger can go a long way in prolonging a device's battery life. This tip also includes a travel surge protector to protect devices and add more outlets to hotel rooms.
Last but not least are the toiletries, extra clothes, and spending money needed for the event's duration. Don't forget to bring rubbing alcohol, face masks, and a vaccination card to prove your COVID-19 vaccination if needed.
Choose What Type of Pass To Get
According to Mike Sellers' GDC Survival Guide, an Expo pass, which costs $349 according to the GDC website, can be worthwhile if on a budget, tight or otherwise. However, taking this pass will not give you the privilege of attending any of the talks. A Summits pass is generally considered the pass that has the best value ($1,149), with it giving attendees access to Summits sessions and the chance to network with other attendees virtually. Keep in mind that not that many Summits sessions are roundtables, meaning these sessions won't be recorded and can be viewed later on the GDC Vault.
A Core pass, which costs $1,749, provides access to the main talks but not the Summits sessions. However, this pass gives you the chance to virtually network with other attendees. Depending on people's preferences, it may not be worth the asking price.
Lastly, an All-Access Pass, which has a price tag of $2,199, gives attendees access to the GDC vault for a year and the offerings of both the Core and Summits passes.
The GDC Vault is where recordings of previous talks and sessions are mostly kept.
Additionally, this year's GDC will offer attendees a Virtual Access pass for attendees who can't make the event in person. For $749, an attendee can get access to the GDC vault for three months, a selection of more than a hundred top-rated GDC 2022 sessions, live, interactive sessions, sponsored content, and main stage sessions live stream.
Regardless of the pass taken, checking out the GDC schedule online for the event's seminars, talks, and tutorials will help potential attendees plan which event pass to get.
Prepare Networking or Job Hunting Materials
If you want to get a publishing deal, press coverage, or an investor to back a game, then preparing materials to convince them of your goals is essential.
In this case, plan your meetings accordingly beforehand, and doing some research on who to talk to will get you far, according to Game Developer. Once that's done, go to the company's stand and ask for a meeting with the person you have in mind. After which, leave your business card there so they can step up a meeting, or bluff your way in.
If you're looking for a job, then prepare a custom-made resume targeting that company, and remember to use one page to list down 10 years' worth of experience when making a resume.
If you're trying to showcase a game for publication or backing, print copies of a one-page "sell sheet" that gives publishers or investors the gist of your game. Try to fit the most important info on the sell sheet only.
