Gaming

Application phase for the Games Lift Incubator 2022 starts

Published

3 years ago

May 11, 2022

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Developers and games start-ups from Hamburg can apply for the extensive funding and support program Games Lift Incubator until June 14, 11:59 pm CEST. As part of the program run by the location initiative Gamecity Hamburg, five teams get financial support of 15,000 euros, three months of coaching and mentoring, slots in a co-working space as well as access to the Games Lift Network composed of numerous mentors from the international games industry. Upon completing the program, the teams will get continued support for twelve months with additional coaching and the help of a PR agency specializing in video games. A quick overview of the program and its benefits in only 30 seconds is available in this trailer video: https://youtu.be/VA5RxX_nq2A

Gamecity Hamburg has been organizing the Games Lift Incubator once a year since 2020 to support solo devs, developers, founders and start-ups in Hamburg with the development of digital games with high market potential.

European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

„The development of digital games is a Herculean task – especially for young teams who have just begun working on their projects. With the Games Lift Incubator, we create the ideal environment to support the teams at each step of their way and help them to manage challenges as well as to reach milestones in the best way possible. The closely-knit network of developers and companies in Hamburg allows us to offer the teams a unique combination of expertise, coaching and public funding”, explains Amanda Förtsch, project manager at Gamecity Hamburg and member of the Games Lift Incubator 2022 Awarding Committee.

The timeline for the Games Lift Incubator 2022

Applicants and teams from Hamburg as well as devs and teams who aim to relocate to Hamburg can apply for the Games Lift Incubator 2022 until June 14. The Awarding Committee invites the most promising teams to pitch their projects online and five teams are subsequently accepted in the Incubator. The incubator program begins September 12 and runs until the beginning of December. Following the graduation event for the five teams on December 8, Gamecity Hamburg continues to support the graduates for another year of individual coaching with professional advisors and the help of a PR agency specialized in video games.

Further information about the Games Lift Incubator is available on the official website: https://www.gamecity-hamburg.de/incubator/. Applications can be submitted online until June 14, 11:59 pm CEST.

“Games Lift Insights” information event on May 24

To give an impression of what awaits participating teams in the workshop program of the Games Lift Incubator, Gamecity Hamburg will host the online workshop “Games Lift Insights” on May 24, 2022, 4:30 pm CEST. Cassia Curran, business development and strategic advisor specialized in games and Games Lift mentor, will share her knowledge on market analysis for indie games. Also, the Gamecity Hamburg team will join in to answer participants’ question about the Games Lift program and application process. More information and registration for the event: https://games-lift-insights-2022-market-analysis.eventbrite.de

The Awarding Committee

The Awarding Committee, composed of experts from the local games industry as well as representatives of Gamecity Hamburg and Hamburg’s Ministry of Culture and Media, decides which applications are accepted into the Games Lift Incubator 2022:

Mareike Ottrand is professor of Interactive Illustration and Games at the HAW Hamburg University of Applied Sciences as well as co-founder and art director at Studio Fizbin. The German development studio is known for titles like “The Inner World” and was awarded the title of “Best Studio” at the German Video Game Awards last year.

Ole Schaper is CEO and CTO of the mobile games studio Sviper, known for the game “Super Spell Heroes”, which was able to raise a seven-figure sum from international investors. He brings his experience from both developer and management positions at development studios as well as founder and CEO of his own companies to the table.

Wolf Lang is co-founder of the Hamburg-based indie studio THREAKS and CEO of the event agency Super Crowd Entertainment, which specializes in the games industry. Super Crowd Entertainment was awarded a special prize by the jury of the German Computer Game Award for its virtual exhibition concept called “Indie Arena Booth Online”, which allows indie developers to be digitally present at gamescom, the largest European video game exhibition.

Jens Unrau is Head of the Department of Media and Digital Economy at the Ministry of Culture and Media of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg and has been supporting the development of the local media and digital economy for over 20 years. He has been a point of contact for the games industry in Hamburg since 2003 and brings his experience as the initiator of the first Hamburg prototype funding program as well as member of the Awarding Committee of the new Gamecity Hamburg prototype funding to the table.

Amanda Förtsch is project manager at Gamecity Hamburg and responsible for the concept and execution of networking events and funding programs like the Games Lift Incubator. She previously handled numerous clients and projects at Super Crowd Entertainment and was involved in the development of the Gamecity Online Hub as well as the organization of the community convention MAG! and the Hamburg Games Conference.

The mentors

A variety of professional mentors are available to the participating teams as part of the Games Lift Incubator. This year’s mentors include Heather Chandler, consultant in the games industry and former Senior Producer for Fortnite, as well as Jörg Luibl, experienced games journalist, amongst others. Additional supporters of this year’s Incubator program will be revealed soon.

Fourth Star

Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform

Published

2 days ago

January 30, 2025

GamingAmericas.com

fourth-star-launches-immersive-media-streaming-platform

Fourth Star, the cutting-edge virtual reality immersive media streaming platform, is officially available to the public. This innovative platform transforms traditional entertainment by enabling users to seamlessly watch standard 2D, 180 and 360 immersive media content and movies. Fourth Star redefines how audiences engage with immersive storytelling, offering an unparalleled first-person centric perspective on entertainment.

“Fourth Star is more than just a platform – it’s a revolution in entertainment,” said Greg Simon, Co-Founder & CEO of Fourth Star. “We’ve created an immersive experience where users can not only consume content but also actively participate in it. Our vision is to transform how people experience media content and movies in a way that has never been done before.”

A New Era of Interactive Entertainment

The largest immersive media streaming platform available on Sidequest, users can explore nearly forty unique environments, interact with AI-driven crew, and experience entertainment in an entirely new way. Fourth Star offers a groundbreaking approach to digital engagement, whether socializing in the Cafe, customizing avatars in private Apartments or Ships, or stepping directly into a movie’s storyline.

“The combination of VR, AI, and blockchain in Fourth Star sets a new standard for immersive entertainment,” said Craig Wiltshire, CTO of Fourth Star. “Our vision is to seamlessly integrate all three technologies into the user experience. We are redefining the entertainment experience from passive observation to active creation.”

Built for Content Partners

Fourth Star is a self-serve platform designed for content partners of all sizes, from individual creators to blockbuster studios. Content partners can set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing their work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience. The Creator Portal empowers partners to distribute and profit from their immersive media with ease, making Fourth Star a truly open and accessible metaverse for digital entertainment.

Key Features of Fourth Star

VR Streaming Platform – Users can access nearly forty environments and own their own luxury apartments and ships all equipped with an immersive media streaming entertainment hub.
Social & Customization – Connect with others in dynamic social hubs, personalize your avatar, and invite your friends to your own luxury apartment and ship.
Player Portal – Users can access the web-based marketplace to explore content, invite friends,
Creator Portal – Set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing your work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience.
Blockchain Integration – The FSTR token, built on the Polygon blockchain, powers the ecosystem, providing secure transactions and exclusive rewards.
AI-Powered Companions – Coming soon

FSTR: The Utility Token Powering Fourth Star

FSTR serves as the primary ecosystem currency within the Fourth Star platform, enabling users to purchase Apartments, Ships, AI Companions, and exclusive content. Token holders benefit from:

VIP Access – Exclusive events, early screenings, and red carpet experiences.
Discounts – 25% savings on in-app purchases (IAPs) and entertainment content.

A New Paradigm in Entertainment

Fourth Star is designed to deliver the future of entertainment through merging cinematic storytelling with interactive gaming, offering:

A seamless transition from passive to interactive experiences.
A thriving community for players, creators, and investors.
Advanced AI integration for interactive AI characters.
Don’t just watch the star in the movie, become the star.

Availability and Access

Fourth Star is now live and available for users worldwide on Sidequest. Whether you’re an explorer, content creator large to small, storyteller, or entertainment enthusiast, Fourth Star provides an immersive space to experience digital entertainment like never before.

The post Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

Gaming

Flexion partners with King to launch Candy Crush Solitaire© simultaneously across platforms

Published

2 weeks ago

January 17, 2025

George Miller

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Reading Time: < 1 minute

Significant industry first will see game launch from day one across 5 alternative stores in addition to Apple and Google.

Flexion, the games marketing company, announces a partnership with preeminent developer King to market new game Candy Crush Solitaire^© in alternative app stores.

Expected to be one of the exciting game announcements of the year, Candy Crush Solitaire^© will be available on the Amazon Appstore, Samsung Galaxy Store, Huawei App Gallery, Xiaomi GetApps and ONE store from the get-go thanks to Flexion’s expertise and technology. The game launches globally across platforms on 6 February and is already available for preregistration in all the stores.

Flexion has had a partnership with King since June 2024 to market Candy Crush Saga^© on the alternative stores. With this latest deal, both companies are breaking new ground with concurrent launches, taking them to the leading edge of games marketing.

“This is the first time King will launch simultaneously across such a wide range of platforms,” says Jens Lauritzson, Flexion’s CEO. “King has recognised that mobile audiences come from a more diverse range of markets these days, and we are thrilled to be able to help them reach those markets. Flexion has brought to the partnership the tech, experience and expertise to ensure the ultimate in user choice.”

Commenting on the deal, Benjamin Pommeraud, General Manager of Strategic Initiatives at King, says: “We’re excited to partner with Flexion to make Candy Crush Solitaire available to more players. As our first expansion of the Candy universe into a new genre, this collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality experiences that are accessible to everyone, no matter where they choose to play.”

The post Flexion partners with King to launch Candy Crush Solitaire© simultaneously across platforms appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

FreezeNova

10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)

Published

1 month ago

December 20, 2024

GamingAmericas.com

10-15%-of-gamers-in-florida-show-signs-of-gaming-addiction:-here-are-10-signs-your-kid-is-suffering-from-it-(and-how-you-can-help)

Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.

Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.

Recognizing Early Signs

“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:

Exhaustion and Irritability

Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.

Gaming Obsession

If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.

Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests

A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.

Emotional Volatility

Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.

Physical Strain

Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.

Neglecting Basic Needs

If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.

Creating a Supportive Environment

While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.

Teamwork and Setting Boundaries

“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.

Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.

Open Communication

Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.

Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”