The gaming industry has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, shaping consumer behavior and revolutionizing the way we play, work, and connect. As we spend more time in immersive virtual worlds, the importance of gaming is only expected to grow. However, the industry has also faced numerous challenges, prompting the need for startups that can demonstrate resilience and adaptability in an ever-evolving landscape.
To honor these extraordinary startups, Lightspeed and GamesBeat have once again joined forces to launch the Game Changers program. Winners of this program will receive widespread media coverage through GamesBeat, access to an exclusive Game Changers community, and 1:1 mentoring with industry leaders across gaming, technology, and interactive media. The best part? These benefits come free of charge without any equity requirements.
This year’s theme for Game Changers 2025 is a celebration of resilience and adaptation. The selection process will place a specific emphasis on startups that have demonstrated their ability to withstand the challenges facing the gaming industry while still innovating and excelling. To ensure a fair and transparent selection, the judging panel consists of C-level executives and senior-level operators from renowned companies such as Activision Blizzard, Disney, Google, Microsoft, Niantic, Tencent, and more.
The Game Changers program is open to startups in five key categories:
1. Gaming Technology: Startups that are pushing the boundaries of gaming technology and creating new immersive experiences.
2. Esports and Competitive Gaming: Startups that are revolutionizing competitive gaming and esports.
3. Social Impact in Gaming: Startups that are using gaming as a platform for social change and impact.
4. Game Development and Publishing: Startups that are creating and publishing innovative games across various platforms.
5. Gaming Infrastructure and Tools: Startups that are building the infrastructure and tools that power the gaming industry.
Last year’s Game Changers program received an overwhelming number of quality entries, and this year, with the pace of innovation accelerating, we expect even more exceptional startups to participate. After a rigorous selection process, the top 25 scoring finalists will be announced as the 2025 Game Changers.
The Game Changers judging panel includes industry leaders such as Allen Adham, Co-Founder of Blizzard Entertainment; Anna Sweet, CEO of Bad Robot Games; and John Hanke, Founder and CEO of Niantic, among many others. Their expertise and insights will ensure that only the most deserving startups are recognized.
To be eligible for the Game Changers program, companies must be part of the gaming industry, founded in 2019 or later, and have no more than 50 full-time employees. In addition to a startup’s vision, execution, and caliber, the judging panel will also focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring the representation of historically marginalized groups.
If you know of a deserving startup or believe your own company has what it takes to be a Game Changer, nominations and self-submissions are now open online. The submission deadline is 11:59 pm PT on Sunday, September 15, 2024. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain recognition and access to valuable resources in the gaming industry.
In conclusion, Game Changers 2025 is a unique opportunity for startups in the gaming industry to showcase their resilience and ability to adapt. By partnering with Lightspeed and GamesBeat, these startups can gain media coverage, mentoring from industry leaders, and access to a thriving community. The gaming industry is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial for startups to stay ahead of the curve. Apply or nominate a startup today and be part of the future of gaming.
