Melbourne International Games Week 2020 celebrates digital connection and game-makers during pandemic
In 2020, Melbourne International Games Week (MIGW) – 3-11 October – will embrace the digital world more than ever. The fully virtual program offers game enthusiasts, game developers, industry and educators, a showcase of new products and innovations, games experiences, industry insights and business connections. It will highlight what makes this creative industry unique and its resilience in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now in its 6th year, MIGW is a fixture on the global games calendar. While the regular 80,000+ participants from around the world won’t be able to descend on Melbourne, this global audience will join the home crowd digitally from the comfort of their own homes. The jam-packed 9-day program features international guests, panel discussions, conferences and dynamic events and activities for gamers, industry, educators and families.
Globally and locally, digital games have not only survived but thrived over the past year. COVID-19 has seen a surge in demand for digital games as people seek new sources of entertainment and connection while in lockdown. Digital games have experienced an increase in popularity during the pandemic, with more than 1.2 million Australians turning to games for entertainment and social connection.
Digital games continue to be the largest entertainment market globally, worth $250 billion, more than the movie and music industries combined. Australia’s games industry appears to be faring well despite the economic impact of the pandemic. 2019/20 was a significant year for the Victorian digital games industry with the global success of Victorian-made Untitled Goose Game, and recently released local games Moving Out and Necrobarista both making waves in Australia and internationally.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said:
“Melbourne is a thriving global games development hub. Our local industry is recognised around the world for its skill, creativity and for producing much-loved, innovative and globally successful games.
“Our games industry has shown great resilience in the face of the pandemic and has an important role to play in the post-COVID recovery of our creative economy.
“Melbourne International Games Weeks puts the spotlight this Victorian success story and connects our local talent with the global industry.”
Highlights of the program are included in the media release with more events will be announced over the coming weeks
Melbourne International Games Week is an initiative of the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria in partnership with Film Victoria, ACMI and IGEA. Events will be held online 3-11 October 2020. See www.gamesweek.melbourne
About the Author
Adrian Gunning Adrian lives in Melbourne Australia and has a huge passion for gaming, technology and pop culture. He recently finished his a Bachelor of Journalism and is currently focusing on games journalism. When not writing and playing video games, Adrian can be found in Comics 'R' Us debating the pros of the DC Universe and cons of the Marvel Universe.
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