This year, GB Engage will bring together executives, developers, and business leaders, using a debate-driven format to put dynamic, point-counterpoint discussions front and center. In Austin, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, this new series will give industry leaders the chance to unpack complex issues in a global gaming industry expected to exceed $320 billion in 2026.
“This multi-city tour is designed to unite community members, industry leaders, and developers in a way that’s never been done before—with an intimate, welcoming format focused on frank, authentic conversations,” said GamesBeat CEO Gina Joseph. “It builds on the momentum of our Engage event last year, where voices like Ed Fries and Henk Rogers sparked candid dialogue about the future of games.”
The gaming industry has been under growing pressure over the past year. Player expectations are soaring, competition across games and platforms is fiercer than ever, and emerging technologies like AI are transforming development and live services. With revenue models shifting and discoverability harder than ever, clear and strategic conversations are essential to steer the industry through this moment. GB Engage is intended to give executives a much-needed space to discuss the industry’s challenges — and chart a path forward — in plain terms.
Independent GamesBeat, Bolder GB Engage
In its first 10 months as an independent media brand, we have expanded our event slate and sharpened our editorial voice and insight. GB Engage builds on that momentum, giving executives, developers and business leaders a platform to shape the future of gaming.
“Our partnership with GamesBeat has created a credible and authentic space to bring together the community for meaningful industry discussions and debates,” said Xsolla Chief Marketing & Growth Officer Berkley Egenes. “GB Engage stands apart by putting real and unscripted discussions at the center of the event, challenging leaders to engage with the issues shaping games in real time. As GamesBeat operates in its new independent era, we are evolving together to create more collaborative, community building opportunities with stronger accountability to help drive the industry forward in the right way.”
GB Engage will take place alongside major industry milestones in each city:
- Austin – Live Services Summit (April 27)
- Los Angeles – Summer Games Fest (June 4)
- Chicago – Unreal Fest (June)
- New York – Ad Week (October)
Each event will explore the business of gaming in depth, including live services strategy, monetization models, AI integration, and sustainable growth. Attendees will hear from top executives across publishing, development, and platform leadership, gaining insight in a market with roughly 3.5 billion gamers worldwide.
Request an invite to GB Engage for the chance to join industry leaders in focused, in‑depth discussions.