New York’s Tech Valley is home to a video game development cluster, ranging from small, independent studios to internationally recognized names. 1UpState is a new Developer Expo coming to the Albany Capital Center on October 19th. Join us for a day of panels and speakers, networking opportunities, exhibitors, game playtesting, and even a small business workshop!

For its second year, 1UpState will increase the number of exhibitors and include a development workshop. The event will consist of three main areas: The Main Hall for Exhibitors, a breakout room for panel discussions and speakers, and an overflow room for additional exhibitors with playtesting for local game designers. The exhibitors in the main hall will range from student teams enrolled in RPI’s GSAS program to independent developers from the Tech Valley region. Additionally, attendees will be able to meet and network with local creatives who also support the games industry.

1UpState Goals:
Ultimately, 1UpState has three goals:
Goal 1: Full Workforce Development Lifecycle Representation
As gaming grows as a hobby, more high schools are embracing its growth by supporting student clubs and events. The support for gaming continues with more colleges supporting Esports teams and offering Game Development curriculums. Once they graduate from college, they will be ready to work for one of the globally recognized studios right here in the Tech Valley Region. From public schools, through college, and into the local workforce, the full workforce development lifecycle will be represented at the same event.

Goal 2: Supporting the Creative Economy
There is no denying the robust and vibrant creative and technical community in the Tech Valley Region. 1UpState will promote these creative efforts by soliciting exhibitors which are all focused on either Game Development or Gaming Culture. These will include Game Development studios, independent creators, service providers, local creatives, and crafters. It takes more than just writing code to bring a game to life, and we intend to promote all the creative efforts required to do so.

Goal 3: Reduce the Barrier to Entry into the Games Industry
The third goal is for this event to make it easier for gaming enthusiasts and hobbyists to enter the game development industry. Current events serve one of two purposes: Events for consumers of the gaming culture and events that serve as professional networking and development for those already in the industry. Exhibitors and presentation selections will be curated to serve those who are looking to transition their interest into a career.