Join Laine Nooney, Ben Porter, and Liam Deane for an insightful discussion on the 2026 State of the Game Industry report from GDC Festival of Gaming. Moderated by Beth Elderkin, this panel explores key findings from the report, alongside research from Newzoo and Omdia—offering a comprehensive look at the trends shaping the future of the games industry.

Topics will include the rise of generative AI, the impact of layoffs on the industry, the growing importance of cross-platform games, the shift toward direct-to-consumer (DTC) payment methods, and more. This session provides a unique opportunity to understand how these trends are influencing the industry and what they mean for developers, publishers, and players alike.

Takeaway

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the most pressing trends in the games industry, how they intersect with broader research, and actionable insights to navigate the evolving landscape.

Intended Audience

Perfect for developers, publishers, industry analysts, and anyone interested in the current and future state of the games industry.