Expert day 4 with Andrea Medvedovici Per
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the gaming industry, experts are constantly exploring how traditional gaming paradigms can transition into the new era of Web 3.0. A recent interview with Andrea Medvedovici Per, Vice President of the European Games Developer Federation (EGDF) and Executive Director of the Romanian Game Developers Association, shed light on this transition, along with sharing insights about differences between Eastern and Western Gaming Markets.
The gaming world is changing fast, moving from what we know as Web 2.0 to something new called Web 3.0. What is this transition about?
Today’s Gaming World: Leading with New Tech
Gaming isn’t just for fun anymore; it’s at the cutting edge of new technology. It is a front-runner in adopting new technologies like VR, AR, and blockchain, and these technologies are being used to create more immersive and interactive gaming experiences.
They might also have touched on the potential of Web 3.0 to revolutionize game economies and player engagement through decentralized platforms and digital ownership, as well as the challenges that come with such advancements.
Gaming in Europe: A Unique Touch
Games made in Europe have their own special style, blending great stories like those from America with the artistic touch often seen in European films. European games often have a unique identity, possibly akin to the more “artsy” nature of European independent cinema compared to mainstream Hollywood blockbusters.
European games often take players on unique adventures because they draw from such a wide range of stories and backgrounds from the whole European continent. Also, Europe has a lot of indie game makers who like to try new things with their games, whether it’s in the story, the look, or how you play. They get support from cultural funds and a strong community, which helps them create games that stand out and offer something different from what you might see elsewhere.
Games like “The Witcher” series, developed by Poland’s CD Projekt Red, showcase the rich storytelling and deep, immersive worlds that European games are known for. On the other hand, indie titles like “Limbo” and “Inside” from Playdead, a Danish studio, exemplify the artistic and innovative gameplay that European developers bring to the table.
Gaming Across the Globe: East vs. West
Western games, from places like the US and Europe, often focus on big stories and advanced graphics. They like to give players lots of freedom and big worlds to explore.
Regulatory, cultural, and player preference differences necessitate tailored approaches for successful game localization and distribution. For instance, the Chinese market imposes strict content regulations, significantly impacting game design and requiring developers to navigate these constraints creatively. In general countries like China and Japan, might pay more attention to details and have a different style. They often include elements from their own cultures, which can make their games feel really special and different.
Nations like Poland and Finland have made significant marks on the industry, with iconic titles and thriving mobile gaming sectors. Romania, with its rich history of collaboration with major studios, has seen a surge in original game development, driven by experienced professionals branching out to create their own projects.
More Than Just Making Games: Diverse Careers in Gaming
Making games isn’t just about coding or drawing. There are tons of different jobs, from designing the game’s rules to testing it out to make sure it’s fun.
The New Wave: Gaming and Web 3.0
Web 3.0 games, especially those where you can earn by playing, are starting to pop up. But there’s a lot to figure out before they can be as good as today’s games.
While Web 3.0 introduces novel elements like blockchain transparency and security, it currently falls short in matching the narrative depth, graphical fidelity, and gameplay mechanics of established Web 2.0 games. The integration of Web 3.0 technologies into mainstream gaming remains a cautious and gradual process, with the industry wary of the risks associated with unproven technologies and the prevalence of scams in the Web 3.0 space.
Conclusion
As we look at where gaming is headed, it’s clear that it’s more than just play. From the creative games coming out of Europe to the new possibilities with Web 3.0, gaming is a field full of opportunity and excitement, ready for what’s next.
