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March 9-13, 2026
Moscone CenterSan Francisco, CA

Agenda

Game On: Why the Best is Yet to Come for Gaming's Future

Simon Zhu  (Independent Game Investor and Advisor, Independent)
Location: Room 3002, West Hall
Date: Tuesday, March 10
Time: 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Pass Type: Festival Pass, Game Changer Pass - Get your pass now!
Audience Level: All
Track: Business Strategy
Format: Lecture
Vault Recording: Video
Audience Level: All

Simon Zhu, an experienced game investor and advisor, delivers a grounded lecture on the gaming industry's resilient growth. Drawing from a decade of supporting nearly 100 studios worldwide, Zhu shares practical insights from his achievements and lessons learned. He explains how gaming thrives through bold innovation and authentic creator-driven stories, offering strategies to navigate industry challenges. Aimed at veteran developers, studio leads, investors, and aspiring creators, Zhu underscores gaming's enduring potential and motivates attendees to shape its promising future.

Takeaway

Takeaways:
      1     Understand why gaming's long-term growth is inevitable, driven by the "Once a Gamer, Forever a Gamer" phenomenon rather than capital cycles.
      2     Discover why true innovation stems from "Fantasy Fulfillment" and authentic creator expression rather than chasing market buzzwords.
      3     Learn how to navigate industry cycles by analyzing recent flops and refocusing on "Common Sense" - respecting the player's time and money.
      4     Receive an insightful "love letter" to the industry that inspires you to unleash your potential during this critical reset.

Intended Audience

Veteran developers, studio leads, investors, and dreamers hungry for hope and strategy. Perfect for anyone feeling the industry's weight or wanting to spark bold ideas.