Ahead of PC Connects London 2019 on January 21st and 22nd we are catching up with some of the big names that we have on-stage at the show.
Today we meet James Hursthouse so that he can tell us a bit about his latest venture, Greenstone Initiatives, and to get his view on the games market right now
Tell us a bit about the company.
I founded Greenstone Initiatives in September of 2016 through which to consult with selected companies in the digital media content and technology space. Current projects include; business and strategic development for AMPD Game Technologies, implementing expanded high-performance computing strategies for games and other sectors; business and strategic development for Rabid Games, a new PC publisher based in Vancouver, BC.
What does your role entail?
I have been leading business and strategic development for companies in the video games, digital media and broader technology sectors for twenty years. We look for future trends while maximizing current value.
Why did you want to work in the games industry?
The blend of artistry and science that goes into creative technology inspires me every day. The skills and expertise developed in the games sector are in ever-increasing demand across many sectors in the modern workplace and society more broadly.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into it?
Join local games meetups and begin to interact with folks in the industry near you. Become generally interesting, well-read, and inspired by something. Be a well-rounded human being. Demonstrate the ability to play well with others.
What are your thoughts on the industry in the last 12 months?
It's been an interesting 12 months, with a number of behemoth games continuing to dominate, while at the same time, the ongoing emergence of Hyper Casual again illustrating - to a degree - that there is always a thriving indie scene in gaming. Disruption in the China market caused by the blanket freeze on game approvals caused some headaches.
What major trends do you predict in the next 12 months?
Ongoing emergence of competitive gaming at all levels - 'little league' through to majors - possibly additional proliferation of online retail channels, the convergence of real-world and digital media channels.
How has the games industry changed since you first started?
Nothing changes, nothing stays the same.
Which part of the Connects event are you most looking forward to and why?
Meeting with the broad cross-section of industry professionals that the event always attracts.
Tickets for just PC Connects London 2019 are available right here, with tickets for the entire show on sale here - buy now to save big.
More info about the event can be found right here.
