Microsoft, through it’s Game Stack Team, has announced it’s pulling out of the Game Developers Conference (GDC) in San Francisco following the Corona Virus concerns.
The event was to happen from March 16th to 20th. Instead, Microsoft will be moving their sessions in an online-only event. The online event is scheduled for March 16th to 18th. It will feature Microsofts planned game developer sessions and experiences.
The live event will include panel discussions with industry leaders about the evolution of game development. Intentionally inclusive game design, the increasing role of online services, next-gen hardware, and the future of game streaming.
Also, individuals will view a behind-the-scenes look into design and development decisions made by the creators of Minecraft and Gears of War. They will additionally hear from Xbox Game Studios teams Double Fine, inXile, Compulsion, Rare, Obsidian, and Undead Labs.
Microsoft joins other companies like Sony, Facebook, Kojima Productions, and Unity, who have also pulled out of the conference for health reasons.
Microsoft through the Game Stack blog notes that.”After a close review of guidance by global health authorities and out of an abundance of caution. We have made the difficult decision to withdraw from participating at Game Developers Conference 2020 in San Francisco. The health and safety of players, developers, employees, and partners around the world is our top priority. Especially as the world is experiencing growing public health risks associated with coronavirus (COVID-19).”
The world has been feeling the impacts of the coronavirus. Concluding from the previous cancellations of the Mobile World Conference and Facebook’s F8 developers’ conference. There seem to be slow business operations worldwide wide.
Over 82,000 people are infected by the virus so far and at least 2, 804 deaths since the virus surfaced. And it continues to be worrisome. On Wednesday, the first reported case of coronavirus with “unknown origin”. The patient didn’t travel to regions hit by the outbreak or come into contact with anybody known to have it was confirmed in Northern California raising more concerns.
Adding from the statement, “GDC has long been a moment for us to come together and celebrate Gaming for Everyone with our many vibrant communities. While we won’t be able to bring our G4E events online. We remain committed to celebrating and amplifying our diverse communities in gaming throughout the year.”