Relive the 2011 Game::Business::Law Summit

Video game industry leaders, developers, publishers, lawyers and venture capitalists from across the globe convened at the third annual Game::Business::Law Summit, January 26-27, 2011, to explore trends in the marketplace.  The two-day forum, held at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, focused on practical approaches for success in the ever-evolving business of games.  Below are videos from each of the panel sessions and presentations.

• Keynote Panel:  What in the Heck is Going On? -  A couple of down years have developers and publishers wondering what they should do next.  Social games?  Smaller teams making casual games?  Or is the answer to focus on making better console games?  Everything from the death of the video game industry to issues before the Supreme Court will be explored by a panel of industry leaders.
     
• Using Research & Data In Video Game Legal Matters - From work-for-hire contracts to full-blown litigation, the increasing complexity of a mature video game industry has resulted in a need for more accurate and reflective research and data.  This talk will review some of the most common and avoidable errors that exist with currently available research data and provide advice on how to best ensure that one is starting out on sound foundations.
     
• Privacy:  Problems and Solutions - Privacy certainly dominated the news last fall.  Respecting the privacy rights of online visitors and recognizing the importance of protecting all shared will be examined by leading industry experts.
     
• On-Ramps and Off-Ramps:  Positioning Your Company for Growth and Sale -  Raising capital, stock options and restricted stock plans, change of control/ exit events, effective earn-outs and earn-out substitutes...Learn the ins and outs from those who know.
  
  
• Court Rulings Effect on Business and Development - From Vernon v. Autodesk to the infamous Schwarzenegger v. Entertainment Merchants Association, the courts are making an impact in the studio and on retail sales.  The latest will be shared by a panel that includes a legal gaming expert, a top developer, a leading electronic media research scientist and an industry advocate.
     
• Digital Distribution:  Is it Really Finally Here? - We have all talked about it, but is it really here?  If not, when will it be?  And what about the numerous legal issues and obstacles of digital distribution?  Developers and legal pros will give an in-depth look at the status of digital distribution, and its effect on both development and retail sales.
     
• The Art of Deal:  Part Two - One of last year’s most popular Summit sessions.  Orchestrating successful deals is considered by many to be an art form.  It requires the ability to masterfully cultivate a partnership between business development and legal counsel that is truly collaborative in its efforts to resolve thorny business issues. 

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