Essential Talks to Catch at Game Devs of Color Expo 2022

The Game Devs of Color Expo has kicked off, featuring a multitude of talks to explore throughout the event. Founded by Catt Small and Chris Algoo in 2016, the expo is now in its seventh year. For more on the conference's origins, check out our interview with the founders. This year's lineup includes a diverse range of topics, from studio funding and unionization to understanding music copyright. Below, we've highlighted a selection of sessions worth considering. For more details on each session and the full program, click here. New Game+: Focusing on People, Not Products Shana Bryant 10:55 AM EST to 11:20 AM EST This panel will delve into game development that prioritizes staff over projects and present alternative systems. Embracing Uncertainty: Finding Your Path Marty Huerta, KO_OP 12:20 PM EST to 12:30 PM EST This talk explores how to forge a path in the games industry without a traditional background, by embracing your unique history and interests. The State of BIPOC Voice Acting in Gaming Eli Harris, voice artist 1:25 PM EST to 1:50 PM EST Harris' panel will offer an in-depth look at voice-over work and the effort that goes into matching voices with on-screen visuals. The Challenges of Rendering Black Hair Lauren Brown, Zynga; Danielle Udogaranya, Ebonix; Jeffrey Rousseau, GamesIndustry.biz 2:15 PM EST to 3:00 PM EST This talk will examine the difficulties of authentic Black hair representation in games and the good, bad, and ugly of rendering coily hair. Unionization and Diversity in the Games Industry Game Workers of Southern California 5:50 PM EST to 6:15 PM EST This discussion will cover the history and significance of labor unions and their impact on developers of color in their fight for inclusion and representation. Creating Authentic Characters Ruel Pascual and Adam Hines; Night School Studio 10:15 AM EST to 10:40 EST The panel will explore world-building through character development, focusing on pivotal moments in characters' lives. Dev Interview: Dot's Home Rise-Home Stories Project and Weathered Sweater 12:40 PM EST to 1:05 PM EST The creators of Dot's Home will be interviewed about how their game tackles systemic issues affecting racially marginalized people in the context of housing. Post-Play Story Dynamics Shawn Pierre, arts professor - NYU Game Center 3:00 PM EST to 3:25 PM EST This talk will investigate how developers can influence the stories players share after completing a game. Black Narradevs: Exploring Relationships in Self-Created Worlds Dani Dee, Split Fate Studios; Dani Lalonders, Veritable Joy Studios; owl, Jellyfish Parade; Gen Heyward, Skate & Date 3:25 PM EST to 4:10 PM EST Developers will discuss their games and how they navigate themes such as existentialism, self-actualization, and evolving identity in worlds they've created. Avoiding Mental Illness Stereotypes in Horror Games Cam Perry, designer 4:30 PM EST to 4:55 PM EST This talk will examine how to avoid perpetuating poor representations of mental illness in horror games. Categorizing Your Game: The Impact of Genres and Labels Son M., Perfect Garbage Studios 10:35 AM EST to 11:00 AM EST This discussion will look at how categories and genres are used in pitching and marketing games, and how developers navigate these options. The Reality of Crowdfunding: Successes and Challenges Alex AK, creative director; Dani Lalonders, Veritable Joy Studios; Son M., Perfect Garbage Studios 12:05 PM EST to 12:50 PM EST Although more funding options are available, many marginalized creators rely on crowdfunding. The panelists will share their experiences and strategies for reaching funding goals. Maximizing Soundtrack Revenue Neha Patel, composer/sound designer 2:55 PM EST to 3:20 PM EST This panel will provide insights on how composers can maximize their revenue from soundtrack sales, covering marketing, common mistakes, and generating passive income.