Beyond the Booth: Top Events for Mobile Game Experts at GDC 2024
This story originally appeared on the MAF blog.
You are a mobile gaming professional attending GDC 2024?
While the conference is packed with learning opportunities and networking sessions, there’s more to explore “beyond the booth”. Afterparties and networking events are a great chance to meet people from the industry, have insightful discussions, and unwind after a busy day.
Since GDC is a major event, there are dozens of networking events surrounding it.
So many options can be overwhelming.
To help you decide, we’ve hand-picked the most interesting events for mobile game industry professionals.
Let’s dive in!
Pocket Gamer Party
If you want to kick off the first day of GDC 2024 with a night of partying, this is the place to be.
This Pocket Gamer party will gather game developers, publishers, and other industry professionals for a night of drinks and dancing.
If you want to join the fun, request your free ticket on time.
P.S. If you’re attending PG Connects San Francisco, you’ll get priority access. If you want to register for PG Connects, make sure to use our promo code MAFSF20 for a 20% discount.
When: Monday, March 18th, 9:30 PM
Where: Temple Nightclub San Francisco, 540 Howard Street San Francisco, CA 94105
Organized by: Pocket Gamer
Cost: Free
Register: Here
Mobile Gaming Brunch
On the second day of GDC 2024, there will be a brunch event for mobile gaming professionals.
At this gathering, visitors will get a chance to explore the latest trends, challenges, and strategies shaping the gaming landscape. The focus will be on user acquisition, marketing, and product development.
If you want to participate, join the waitlist.
When: Tuesday, March 19th, 10 AM
Where: The Howard, 661 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Organized by: data.ai, Deconstructor of Fun, AppsFlyer
Cost: Free
Register: Here
Top Publishers Happy Hour
If you work in the mobile gaming industry, you might be interested in joining this event which will acknowledge top publishers and mobile gaming experts.
Want to attend? Make sure to RSVP as soon as possible.
When: Tuesday, March 19th, 4:30 PM
Where: The Howard, 661 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Organized by: data.ai, Moloco
Cost: Free
Register: Here
Cosmos Golden Hour
This event is hosted by Five O’Clock Club, a renowned event organizer in the mobile industry known for throwing unforgettable parties.
The Cosmos Golden Hour will gather the leaders of the mobile industry for a unique and exciting networking experience.
As the organizers put it, get ready to be “teleported into another planet in the year 2100“.
Want to be a part of the journey?
Request your invitation today and secure your spot at this exclusive event!
When: Tuesday, March 19th, 5–8 PM
Where: 1 Yerba Buena Lane, San Francisco, CA 94103
Organized by: Five O’Clock Club
Cost: Free
Register: Here
Unity’s GDC VIP Party
Unity’s GDC VIP Party will gather mobile game industry leaders in a historic 1930s speakeasy.
In addition to a fancy venue, the organizers have prepared cocktails, appetizers, and music beats by SF’s famous DJ Umami.
If you wish to attend, reserve your spot early enough.
When: Wednesday, March 20th, 7 PM — 10 PM
Where: August Hall, 420 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Organized by: Unity
Cost: Free
Register: Here
Spin City
This gathering will take place at the same time as the previous one, so you’ll have to choose between the two.
At the event, mobile gaming professionals will gather for drinks, snacks, interactive art, and a game of ping-pong. All in all, it’s a great opportunity to have fun and unwind after the conference.
The capacity of this event is limited, so make sure to RSVP in time.
When: Wednesday, March 20th, 7 PM — 10 PM
Where: SPIN San Francisco, 690 Folsom St #100, San Francisco, CA 94107
Organized by: AppLovin, Adjust, Liftoff
Cost: Free
Register: Here
UGC the GDC
As you probably know, user-generated content (UGC) is one of the hottest mobile gaming trends in 2024.
So, why not learn more about it?
At this event, attendees will get an opportunity to learn about the use of UGC in gaming directly from experts. Also, expect a casual atmosphere with drinks, snacks, and even relaxing massages.
When: Thursday, March 21st, 6 PM — 9 PM
Where: Mindspace San Francisco, 575 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
Organized by: Overwolf
Cost: Free
Register: Here
Other Popular GDC 2024 Parties and Side Events
On top of the above-listed events, here are some other popular GDC events you might be interested in attending:
- GDC 2024 After Party Meetup
- Pre-GDC Indie Game Developer Park Meetup
- Community Clubhouse
- Courage XL — Pre-GDC Indie Games Showcase
- Pre-GDC 2024 Networking Meetup
- GDC Level Up Mixer
- GDC 2024 Power Up Mixer + After Party
- Coffee with WINGS
We’re Coming — Let’s Connect!
The MAF team regularly attends GDC San Francisco and this year is no exception. Our COO Massimo Caroli will be there, so feel free to reach out to talk about advertising and monetization opportunities for your game business!
2024 Event Calendar + Exclusive Promo Codes
We’re proud to announce that our annual app & game industry event calendar for 2024 is now available!
The calendar consists of 50+ industry events that will take place in 2024. In it, you can find regularly updated information about event dates, locations, ticket prices, and exclusive promo codes with up to 20% discounts!