Game Industry Leaders Discuss Future, Challenges, and Trends in The BIG Show Season 2 Round-Up

The second season of GamesBeat’s podcast, The BIG Show, concluded earlier this month. Recorded largely at events like the GamesBeat Summit, the latest season featured eight guests across seven episodes, including two sponsored bonus episodes, highlighting perspectives from across the gaming landscape during a challenging period marked by industry layoffs.

Among the featured voices, thatgamecompany founder Jenova Chen discussed the cultural rise of gaming, expressing optimism that it is on track to replace cinema as the world's dominant entertainment form. However, Chen also criticized industry trends like loot boxes, gacha mechanics, and other pseudo-gambling elements injected into gameplay, noting that removing such revenue streams would place gaming revenues just slightly above cinema.

Scopely chief operating officer Eunice Lee emphasized the importance of fostering human connections through play, pointing out that community building is essential for both player happiness and long-term studio growth strategies. Meanwhile, Nexon president and CEO Owen Mahoney shared his perspective on the integration of AI-powered development tools, stressing that while AI represents a major technological shift, game makers must keep their core focus on making fun experiences.

Addressing user acquisition challenges, Webtoon global chief financial officer and Wattpad president David Lee argued that game developers must become less precious with their intellectual property. By collaborating with creators on platforms like Webtoon, studios can expand their audience reach within natural digital habitats. In the realm of entertainment crossovers, Story Kitchen's Dmitri Johnson and Blumhouse video game publishing head Amanda Kruse discussed the evolving relationship between gaming and Hollywood, noting that both industries face increasing global competition and must adapt to international market trends.

Twitch chief product officer Mike Minton shared insights on social media and livestreaming dynamics, expressing skepticism regarding the long-term sustainability of the current clipping trend for creator growth. Finally, Planet Play chief strategy officer Jude Ower closed out the season by highlighting how integrating altruistic choices and positive societal impact into gameplay can benefit user acquisition and overall business performance.