Over the past 40 years, advances in technology have fueled the explosive growth of gaming and interactive entertainment. Today, the multi-billion dollar global games industry has spawned a media ecosystem ranging from entertainment franchises like League of Legends (Arcane), Super Mario Brothers, Borderlands, etc., to retailers, social media, gaming hardware makers and beyond. New music debuts within video game experiences, game engines are used for virtual production of Hollywood films and series. Professional gaming and esports has become a global phenomenon – often involving titles that have no basis in traditional athletic competition. And brands are increasingly looking to connect to gamers through interactive entertainment and collaboration with game studios and esports events.

The Business of Gaming and Esports Academy will explore these and other trends to provide high school students with a deeper understanding of the economics of the industry, the impact of technology innovation, and the wide array of career pathways and business opportunities that exist in the sector. Students will learn about modeling new games, sources of revenue, marketing and partnerships, and more. Lecture topics include:

• The gaming ecosystem
• Developing ideas for new games
• Making money from games: product, in-game purchase, fandom & licensing
• The business of esports

As their final project, students will also work in groups to pitch an idea for a new game with a revenue strategy and launch plan. The two-week academy will provide students with a deeper understanding of many of the job functions and elements within the gaming industry.

Note: course description subject to change.