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Embracing diversity in gaming: A conversation on innovation and inclusion at GamesBeat NEXT
November 22, 2024
At the heart of the gaming industry's evolution is a conversation about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. As part of this year’s GamesBeat NEXT, Xsolla was proud to sponsor a key event that spotlighted the critical role diversity plays in driving innovation and long-term success in gaming: the Diversity in Gaming Panel.
The diversity in gaming panel
On October 29, Bridget Stacy, Xsolla’s VP of Marketing, moderated a thought-provoking panel at the Diversity in Gaming Lunch. The session, titled Embracing Diversity: Navigating Challenges and Prioritizing Inclusion in the Gaming Industry, addressed the ongoing challenges faced by developers from traditionally underrepresented groups and emphasized how embracing diversity can create a more vibrant and resilient industry. She was joined by Sheloman Byrd, CEO of Open Ocean Games, Jenny Xu, CEO of Talofa Games, and Jessica Murrey, CEO and co-founder of Wicked Saints Studios. The discussion centered on how diverse voices and perspectives can fuel innovation, explore new narrative spaces, and deliver more engaging gaming experiences. With candid stories from the panelists, attendees gained insight into the obstacles faced by these pioneering developers and learned how they’ve navigated these challenges to find success in a competitive and often exclusive industry. The speakers discussed actionable strategies for ensuring that diverse talent can thrive, stressing that inclusion is not just a moral imperative but a key driver of business success. The message was clear: diversity leads to better creativity, stronger teams, and more resilient companies. Xsolla's involvement at the panel emphasized our commitment to making gaming a more inclusive space. As a company that serves developers and gaming communities around the world, we know embracing diversity is essential for driving growth, fostering innovation, and creating better gaming experiences for everyone.The future of the games industry
The event highlighted the need for continued progress in fostering an inclusive gaming environment. A key takeaway was the importance of building strong support networks. Mentors and peers who understand the unique challenges faced by underrepresented groups provide invaluable guidance throughout one’s journey. These connections can be crucial in overcoming obstacles, whether in funding, career transitions, or day-to-day challenges. Perseverance was also emphasized. The fear of failure can be overwhelming, especially when the stakes feel high. However, being on the "edge" often provides the clearest view of opportunities. Embracing this mindset empowers creators to push forward, knowing that success comes from persistence and audacity. At Xsolla, we’re committed to supporting developers from all backgrounds, ensuring the gaming industry reflects the diversity of the players who engage with it. Stay tuned as we continue to foster conversations on diversity in the industry at upcoming events like our Women in Gaming & Entertainment panel, which will be part of the GamesBeat Insider Series.
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