GamesBeat Engage: Seattle
Join us for an exclusive deep-dive with one of the most influential figures in gaming history. Ed Fries, co-creator of Xbox and former Microsoft VP of Game Publishing, helped shape the foundation of modern console gaming — from building iconic franchises to launching a platform that changed the industry forever.
Now, with decades of experience as an investor and advisor, Ed brings a rare blend of insight spanning the early days of Microsoft to the cutting edge of today’s gaming and tech landscape.
In this live conversation, we’ll explore:
The untold stories behind the original Xbox
What he’s seeing in the next generation of gaming startups
Where the industry is headed — and what most people are getting wrong
The intersection of games, AI, and creative tools
And why the next wave of innovation might not come from where you expect
Who is it for
This event is designed for game developers and publishing professionals — from indie creators to technical and business leaders at AAA studios — who are shaping the creative and commercial direction of the industry. It’s also ideal for C-suite decision makers, studio founders, directors of product, publishing, or marketing, and anyone exploring new tools, platforms, and workflows in today’s evolving games ecosystem.
Schedule
4:00 – 4:30 PM Arrival & Welcome Reception Light bites, drinks, and open networking with industry peers.
4:30 – 4:40 PM Opening Remarks
4:40 – 5:20 PM Lightning Talks Two rapid insights (15-20 minutes each) from select local game leaders sharing bold ideas or experimental practices shaping the future of game development.
5:20 – 6:00 PM Featured Fireside Chat Speaker: Ed Fries, General Partner, 1Up Ventures (Former VP of Publishing, Xbox). A candid conversation with Dean on how the lessons of the past can guide today’s creators in building what’s next — from game design philosophy to supporting the next wave of independent talent.
6:00 – 7:00 PM Closing Drinks & Connections
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to learn from a true industry pioneer — and leave with insights you won’t hear anywhere else.