A Last-Minute Request

I suppose it’s a bit late to be blogging about this, but I want to take a moment to tell you about the panel that I’ve proposed for SXSW next march. The topic is called “Do Video Games Make Us Better Designers?”. You can view (and possibly vote for) the actual idea on the Panel Picker website. You don”t have much time though (pretty much just Today).

Here’s the description as I posted it:

Designers and developers of the internet seem always able to make time for video games, be it for stress relief, breaks, or as rewards for getting the job done. Some studios even allow the staff to game on Friday afternoon, as a form of team building. This panel will open up the topic of how gaming affects us emotionally and asks whether it improves our motivation, inspiration, and general attitude.

The idea is this: When I play video games, it’s more than just for the enjoyment. I play because they inspire me with how they look. I play because sometimes I need to relieve stress, and just channel my feelings. I play as a reward to myself for getting my work done. And I sometimes even play as a way of sharpening my sense of logic before digging into a heavy project. Whatever the reason, I know that I’m not the only creative person who thinks this way.

In fact, I’ve asked D. Keith Robinson, Dan Rubin, and Mathew Hoy to join me on the stage to talk about their own feelings on the subject, each coming from a unique perspective and background. I’d like the four of us to present together at SXSW next March, but may not be able to do so without enough public votes.

It’s important to me though that if you do vote, it’s because you are truly as interested in the topic as we are. That your thumbs-up is an indication that you will sincerely and honestly consider parking yourself in front of our smiling faces for about forty-five minutes. I know I would love to see everyone there, but I also know that some of you just aren’t gamers. Seriously, this is going to be one geeky panel. You should give it a chance, it won’t disappoint.

Next entry: Redesign

Previous entry: dandicast