Futurist and Pioneer to Present a Vision of Computer Entertainment 35 Years from Today

SAN FRANCISCO, July 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Think Services Game Group announced today that noted science fiction writer and futurist Bruce Sterling has been confirmed as a keynote speaker for the Austin Game Developers Conference (Austin GDC) 2008. Sterling's keynote titled, "Computer Entertainment 35 Years From Today," provides a vision of what the gaming landscape will look like in the year 2043 and describes four possible scenarios for the kind of gaming-world future generations will encounter. Pong, released 36 years ago, broke the mold of game development leading to incredible advancement in the realms of graphics, game play, interactivity, and storytelling. How might present-day game developers react to the knowledge of amazing innovations that will be on the horizon in 35 years? Sterling will explore this question at Austin GDC, being held September 15-17 at the Austin Convention Center.

As the editor of the influential 1986 short story collection Mirrorshades, Sterling has defined the cutting edge of the science fiction genre and is most recognized as the originator of the cyberpunk genre. His uncanny ability to always spot unrealized opportunities and future trends has made him an undeniable influence in circles of innovators across all mediums.

"We are thrilled to have Bruce Sterling as a keynote speaker this year. He will not only inspire our industry's storytellers to see the future of gaming, and their role in shaping that future but also provoke the minds of all of Austin GDC's attendees," said Susan O'Connor, Austin GDC Advisor and Game Writer.

"Austin GDC aims to speak to the untapped technical and creative potential of existing and future platforms; Bruce Sterling's talk champions that goal, inspiring developers to extend beyond the current and to propel games development into the future," said Izora de Lillard, Event Director. "Keynotes such as Sterling continue to make the Austin Game Developers Conference so unique and progressive."

As a celebration of what's new and upcoming in game development, Austin GDC will also play host to the Worlds in Motion Summit and the Independent Games Festival Showcase. Early registration discounts are available until July 31st. For more information on Bruce Sterling's keynote, other sessions, and online registration, please visit the official website at http://www.austingdc.net.

About the Think Services Game Group

A core provider of essential information to the professional game industry, the Think Services Game Group offers market-defining content, and drives community through its award winning lineup of print, online, event and research products and services. These include Game Developer Magazine, Game Developer Research, the Webby Award-winning Gamasutra.com, GameCareerGuide.com, WorldsInMotion.biz, GameSetWatch.com, GamesOnDeck.com, SeriousGamesSource.com, the Game Developers Conference, the Austin Game Developers Conference, the Paris Game Developers Conference, GDC Mobile, the Game Career Seminars, the Independent Games Festival and Summit, and the Game Developers Choice Awards. For more information, please visit http://www.tsgamegroup.com/).

About Think Services

Think Services connects specialized communities worldwide using innovative media, educational events, consulting, training and certification. Providing comprehensive opportunities for people to learn from, network with, and inspire each other, Think Services builds strong brands and works within communities to foster a unique affinity with its products and services. The division's flagship products include the Game Developers Conference, the Webby Award-winning Gamasutra.com, Game Developer magazine, the International Customer Management Institute, HDI, and Dr. Dobb's Journal. Think Services is a subsidiary of United Business Media, a global provider of news distribution and specialist information services with a market capitalization of more than $2.5 billion. To learn more, visit http://www.think-services.com.

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