Event Previews

Nottingham will play host to another GameCity festival between 24 - 28 October 2007.

The inaugural event was so popular that organisers are already planning for the next four years.

What's it all about?

The Director of GameCity is Iain Simons. "It's very much about translating video games for everyone who isn't interested in them," he says.

"It's our attempt to have a games festival like you would an arts or music festival."

Ian says that despite the success of the first festival there's no reason for the event to move out of Nottingham and head to London.

"It's been compared to the Sundance Film Festival in America. What's fantastic about Nottingham is it has a great IT heritage and it's easy to get to. People are surprised it's such a good venue but now we want to build on it."

A job provider

Although the festival is about introducing none-gaming fans to the product, its main attraction has been for students.

Even though there's only been one event there's evidence that GameCity can get you onto the employment ladder.

"A lot of students came to the festival, met developers and actually got placements," says Ian.

"Some actually got jobs simply by being in an environment where they could meet and chat with developers in a more relaxed way."

Singing for 2007

One of the highlights of this year's GameCity is set to take place in the revamped Old Market Square.

A giant karaoke session will involve singers throughout the globe.

"There are going to be huge screens in the Market Square and a huge opportunity for the public to broadcast around the world and get themselves into forthcoming games."

GameCity timetable

The event takes place from 24 - 28 October 2007 at venues throughout Nottingham.