Secrets of the Game Business (Game Development Series)

As the game industry continues to grow, you might be considering jumping in, but before you do, read what the insiders have to say and learn from their experiences. You’ll explore the inner workings of the game development and publishing industry through the experiences and insights of industry experts. These publishing executives, developers, veteran producers, designers, owners of independent studios, and academics have written a unique collection of articles that really delve into the intricacies of the business. The articles, case studies, and interviews cover all aspects of the industry, providing real-world examples that illustrate how successful companies and individuals have achieved their goals. Everything is covered, from how the retail market works to financing a start-up and deciding on the right business model for your game.

This is a must-have resource for anyone interested in starting a game development studio or improving an existing one.

SECTION HIGHLIGHTS:
* Publishers & Developers: this section examines the roles of publishers and retailers, explains how games get to market, and describes the industry’s economics.
* Game Development Startups: describes how to prepare for the creation of a new game development company and succeed in a difficult market.
* Taking a Game to Market: teaches developers how to approach publishers, maximize the odds of their games reaching store shelves, and negotiate contracts that protect their long-term interests.
* Managing Game Development: contains advice on ways to make the long, arduous production process as smooth and pleasant as possible.

Contributors:
* Sean Timarco Baggaley
* Ed Bartlett
* Tom Buscaglia
* Beverly Cambron
* Melanie Cambron
* Chris Campbell
* Sande Chen
* Thomas Djafari
* François Dominic Laramée
* Philippe Larrue
* William Lazonick
* Heather Maxwell
* Mason McCuskey
* Mitzi McGilvray
* Mary O’Sullivan
* Javier Otaegui
* Terri Perkins
* Borut Pfeifer
* Jay Powell
* Kathy Schoback
* Michael Sellers
* Tom Sloper
* Grant Stanton
* Johanna Wilson

François Dominic Laramée (Verdun, QC) has designed, programmed, and/or produced over 20 games for con-soles, personal computers, interactive television, and online networks over the last decade. He is a prolific writer and the holder of graduate degrees in computer science and business administration. He is also the editor of Game Design Perspectives and he has contributed to the Game Programming Gems and AI Game Programming Wisdom series.