In this episode of IndieGameBusiness, we sit down with Joanie Kraut, CEO of Women in Games International (WIGI), to explore how the organization is building a more equitable and inclusive gaming industry. Joanie shares the mission behind WIGI, the impact of their initiatives, and what the future looks like as they approach their 20th anniversary in 2025.

We also discuss how WIGI actively supports women and marginalized genders, key programs and partnerships, and what allies in the industry can do to contribute meaningfully. Whether you're a developer, publisher, or player, this episode is packed with insight on how the community can create lasting change.

Socials:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanie-kraut/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/getwigi

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getwigi/

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/joanie-kraut.bsky.social

#WomenInGames #EquityInGaming #GameDevCommunity #WIGI #IndieGameBusiness

Join Omar for a presentation covering the essentials of pitching your video game to publishers. From structure and flow to the must-have elements of a winning pitch, this session is all about showcasing your game's potential and getting publishers excited to support it!

Learn what it takes to make a standout trailer from four game trailer makers who come from the craft from different angles and work experience. The panel combines their experience in: AAA game trailers, indie game trailers, cinematic short films of VR games, and games journalism.

You will learn how and why certain game trailers grab the eyeballs of customers, press, influencers by clearly showing what the game is. Also, where is the line between authentically depicting the game as it is, and making custom footage that evokes the game experience in a more emotionally affecting way?

Most gamers discover new titles through YouTube, Twitch and other social media platforms, but how do you get creators to talk about your game? This session breaks down actionable strategies for identifying the right influencers, reaching out effectively, and building lasting relationships. Learn how to time your efforts around key milestones to boost visibility and get noticed by the Steam algorithm.

Marketing agency founder Michael Brown discusses the best way to optimize your marketing to ensure you get the maximum return on Steam Next Fest and the tips and tricks Vicarious uses to ensure momentum for their games.

Professor Jim Huntley of USC Games will present fundamental marketing

strategies for interactive games, with a focus on indie games with limited budget sand resources, including some recommended tools and best practices.

Steam wishlists are one of the most powerful tools available to game developers. This session, we'll break down everything you need to know about wishlists: what they are, why they matter, and how to effectively grow them before launch. You'll learn practical strategies for increasing your wishlist count, how wishlists signal interest to the Steam algorithm, and how they translate into actual sales.

Going Rogue dives into the power of throwing what you know out the window and focusing on the organic opportunities that come with community management to drive your marketing. Learn tactics to building these connections, how to explore new ways to think of community management, and how it can create a buzz around your project. Smashing skulls with overt marketing is no longer the way - it's time to get stealthy about how we approach it so that it doesn't give players the ick.

Great marketing doesn't happen by accident—it starts with a solid plan. In this final session, Alyssa will outline how to craft a go-to-market strategy that aligns with your game, goals, and resources.

Join us for an engaging conversation with Jack Pattillo, Community Manager at Channel37, as he shares his journey from content creation to community management. After 15 years at Rooster Teeth, Jack delves into the evolving landscape of gaming, how to foster a thriving community, and his experience working remotely with a company based overseas. In this episode, Jack offers insights into life after Rooster Teeth, discusses the industry’s rapid changes over the decades, and highlights the unique challenges and rewards of building and nurturing a dedicated gaming community.

Topics Covered:

Transition from Content Creator to Community Manager

Building and maintaining an engaged gaming community

Life after Rooster Teeth and reflections on a 15-year career

Working remotely with an international company

Industry changes witnessed over decades in gaming

Strategies for successful community building and collaboration

Connect with Jack Pattillo:

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jackpattillo.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-pattillo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackpattillo/

#IndieGameBusiness #JackPattillo #CommunityManagement #GamingIndustry #LifeAfterRoosterTeeth #RemoteWork #ContentCreator #Channel37 #CommunityBuilding #GameDevelopment