Your Career in the Games Industry

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Start your career in the games industry

New The MedienWiki homepage www.medienwiki.org offers you all necessary information with videosabout study courses and apprenticeships in the games sector as well as information about more than 200 media jobs. In addition to that, you can also ﬁ nd internship and job offers in the media sector.

Québec scholarships: The program is made for game design and game engineering students as well as for media and computing students. For more information please visit our homepage www. mediencampus.de.

Further information about the media industry will be presented at the „Medientage München“ fair, which takes place from October 16-18, 2013 at the fairground ICM in „München- Riem“. Students will have the chance to talk directly to professionals from the media and games industry. There is no entrance fee for the MedienCampus area.

If you are interested in the „Medien Magazin“ by the MedienCampus Bayern, please write us an email: [email protected]. The „Medien Magazin“ will be sent to you at no charge.

www.mediencampus.de www. medienwiki.org BAVARIA ENTER THE GAME

EDITORIAL

In the summer of 2009, the FFF was commissioned by the variety of courses are now Bavarian State Chancellery to establish a funding pro- available at Bavarian universities. gramme to support the games industry financially. This Not to mention the ever-increasing was a major challenge for us, as the gaming industry was number of diverse enterprises that en- an entirely new field with new players and new rules. hance the Bavarian hub. Over the past four years we have familiarized ourselves And so with this brochure we would with the hugely diverse games industry and are cons- like to shine a spotlight on some of the games Prof. Dr. Klaus Schaefer tantly amazed that the digital economy changes so ra- Managing Director industry’s representatives in Bavaria and thereby pidly, especially in this sector. Moreover, as the games in- FilmFernsehFonds Bayern make clear just how deeply it influences and drives dustry is under continuous renewal and development to the economic and cultural development of our State. keep pace with the ever-rapid technological innovations, To that end, we have selected five representative this hub has likewise adopted this dynamic rhythm and has hugely de- companies, each of which uniquely illuminates a facet of our region. Un- veloped in terms of its public institutions and private players. fortunately, there is not enough space in this brochure to profile every Games development in Bavaria was not reinvented with the intro- company and initiative in Bavaria. Please refer to the address section for duction of funding for the industry, as numerous businesses and regio- the names of and links to all industry participants in the latest location nal associations (such as the Videospielkultur Verein e.V.) already existed survey on behalf of BLM. at that time. Nevertheless, the linking of FFF Bayern and the Bavarian I now kindly invite you to explore with us the Bavarian games scene State Chancellery, combined with financial aid, contributed to stabilizing together with us. Follow us on this path and – Enter the Game! the industry and thus affording it greater attention. And a lot has certainly happened since then! Established institutions such as the Bavarian media regulator BLM, the MedienCampus Bayern, the Chamber of Indus- try and Commerce and the Bavarian Broadcasting BR have all embraced the issue, and additionally there is now a newcomer on the scene –

Photo Prof. Dr. Klaus Schaefer: © Kurt Krieger 2011 Dr. Prof. Photo WERK1 – a business incubator for digital industry start-ups. Plus, a wide

www.fff-bayern.de facebook.com/FilmFernsehFondsBayernGmbh

Bavaria – Enter the Game 3 THE GAME CONTENT 6

BAVARIA – ENTER THE GAME!

14 THE GAME WORLD Bavaria: A games hub: Four policy makers and experts from Bavaria and its local games

industry discuss the status quo. �� 6

THE STORY

From business surveys, to delegation trips to Retro Exchange. �� 10

THE INTRO Games funding: How the FilmFernsehFonds Bayern actively supports Bavarian 16 game developers with their projects. �� 14

THE BASIS Werk1 – home base, business hub, event centre of the Bavarian games industry. �� 16

THE TUTORIAL Training in Bavaria: How the MedienCampus Bayern promotes the education and training of game developers. �� 18 18

4 Bavaria – Enter the Game 20 THE MISSIONS From a team of students to a game studio:

Mimimi Productions �� 20

From board games to hybrid games: 21 Ravensburger Digital �� 21 To bring games to millions of mobile phones:

HandyGames �� 22

Viewers become players:

ProSiebenSat.1 Games �� 24

Core games for the international market: 22 Koch Media �� 26 THE QUESTS You definitely should not miss: The most important dates, events and venues

of the Bavarian games year. �� 28

THE KEY PLAYERS Bavaria‘s games industry from A�Z: 24 The adresses and contact details of more than 100 companies. �� 30 THE CHARACTERS Who‘s who?

The right expert for every matter. �� 34

Bavaria – Enter the Game 5 The Bavarian State Chancellery: Local media policy starts here with onus on games.

THE GAME WORLD BAVARIA: A GAMES HUB

INDUSTRY & POLITICS IN DIALOGUE

A round table of four policy makers and experts from Bavaria and its local games industry discuss the current status of the region as a games hub and its aims and positioning in the future.

Mid-May, a blue and white sky above the Bavarian State Chancellery Thomas Kreuzer, in the heart of Munich. Sunshine seeps into the room, subdued by Bavarian Media Minister and head of the Bavarian State Chanceller the dark roller shutters in front of the large panoramic windows. Prof. Dr. Klaus Schaefer, At a round table four key players talk about how the Bavarian games Managing Director FilmFernsehFonds Bayern hub will develop in the future: Dr. Klemens Kundratitz, Managing Director of the games publisher Koch Media and member of the board of BIU (German Games Association) Hendrik Lesser, Managing Director of the games production company Remote Control Productions, Managing Director and board member of Videospielkultur e.V. and board member of G.A.M.E. (Association of the German computer & videogame industry)

They answer questions from Munich journalist and games programmer Richard Löwenstein.

6 Bavaria – Enter the Game Four key industry players from Bavaria speak about games and much more in the Bavarian State Chancellery (from left to right): FFF Managing Director Klaus Schaefer, Koch Media Managing Director Klemens Kundratitz, Media Minister Thomas Kreuzer, G.A.M.E. board member Hendrik Lesser.

Mr. Kreuzer, the games industry has been benefiting from a strong part- launch of the programme, the FilmFernsehFonds Bayern has distributed over ner by its side for several years now, namely the Free State of Bavaria. €2 million in funding. We specifically focus on the development and produc- You have backed the industry yourself several times and are quoted as tion of high quality projects with a cultural and educational approach, devel- saying: »Bavaria is the State of game developers«. What is your impres- oped mainly within the region of Bavaria. Many of the funded productions sion of the status quo of the industry in Bavaria today? are on the verge of being launched and some are already on the market. We Thomas Kreuzer Bavaria is a diverse media location. We have entrepreneurs support young companies by providing advice on funding. But we get also in- here, large and small firms and we want to further develop these structures. volved in the Bavarian booth at gamescom in Cologne or by organizing a Ba- Electronic games are a link between the cultural, creative and web economy. varian umbrella booth at Games Connection in Paris or a delegation for Car- I think that we have provided many great stimuli to support the industry over toon Movie in Lyon. the last four years. We greatly value networking. The games-lab WERK1 is an example of this. We want to continue on this path. Klemens Kundratitz If I could just quickly add something: If we not only want to sow the seeds but also want to achieve a speedy and major eco- Mr. Schaefer, Bavaria introduced a funding scheme for the develop- nomic success story, we should consider funding in global terms as opment of computer and video games some time ago. What are the posed to just cultural. Perhaps other criteria could be considered, such as experiences so far? research, developing new technologies and economic funding. In the Klaus Schaefer Games funding was initially launched as a pilot project for games industry we are constantly developing new products and many of one and a half years and then it was established permanently, largely due to these are for the most part pilot projects. That said, however, research the significant benefits provided by the fund. The funding has been available plays a major role in our industry which often is called by something dif- since the summer of 2009. In the meantime, our committee has met eight ferent, like product development or something similar. However, pro- times and has reviewed, consulted and decided on 93 applications. Since the moting this would be an approach worth pursuing.

www.bayern.de facebook.com/bayern

Bavaria – Enter the Game 7 Thomas Kreuzer: »We are doing a great deal so that the video games industry feels welcome Klaus Schaefer: »Computer games funding was launched as a pilot project and in Bavaria. We value games and I envisage it to be a market with huge prospects here.« then it was established permanently, largely due to the significant benefits. «

Mr. Kundratitz, the survey on »Bavaria the games hub« was pub- about developing the industry from within. After all, many of the cours- lished in May 2013. It confirms that Bavaria’s strengths lie in the ar- es have only recently been set up and we can resolve the problem re- eas of training, PC and mobile games development. What in your garding the lack of young talent by offering good training opportunities opinion needs to happen to generate more complex AAA products and of course by funding projects that promote young talent. for the global console market from the area? Klemens Kundratitz Game studios rely on people and these people, for Thomas Kreuzer To date six public and three private higher educational the most part, live in the country where the studios are located. Therefore courses are up and running. We are currently concentrating on improv- I don’t believe that one can attract or entice an entire company or studio ing the information exchange between professors and lecturers with to move to Bavaria through random individual measures. It has to be venues like the GamesCampus organized by the MedienCampus. More- looked at on a long-term basis: By currently supporting small size Bavari- over, we wish to enhance on the job training. It is not always necessary an game- developing companies, the seeds for the future are sown, as to have a degree to find a way into the games industry. Look at the IT- these »start-ups« will inevitably grow into major studios. An important specialists, for example. I believe that many people are basically not aspect therefore is to nurture game-developers. We not only need sup- aware of how the games industry works and the kind of people it report for small enterprises but for medium and large ones as well. Further- quires. We are trying to change that. more, the lack of qualified specialists is still a problem. We simply do not have enough people to feed the various creative, technological and eco- Mr. Lesser, are there enough sources of information for those inter- nomic areas. And in addition to the current courses on offer, we need to cre- ested in pursuing a career in the games industry? ate solid job profiles in close collaboration with educational institutions. Hendrik Lesser Yes, I think there are. In Bavaria we have a Chapter of the Inter- national Game Developers Association. Up to a hundred people meet three to Hendrik Lesser In part newly graduated university students do not have four times a year. Then there are the GameCamp - and Munich Indie initiatives, the level of standards required for the tasks and more work will be neces- Videospielkultur e.V. and of course the FFF Bayern. Last but not least, the associ- sary, in close collaboration with the MedienCampus, Chamber of Industry ations BIU and G.A.M.E. are also certainly good contact points. Naturally all this and Commerce, universities and higher education bodies, to improve this. needs to be coordinated more efficiently with the afore said Chamber of Indus- try and Commerce, the employment agencies and others like the Bavarian me- Klaus Schaefer Media funding by FilmFernsehFonds Bayern should con- dia regulator BLM. It is all so very new therefore we need to be patient. Things, tribute to help small companies in Bavaria to develop and grow. It is however, are definitely developing. For example, whenever the media commit-

8 Bavaria – Enter the Game Klemens Kundratitz: »Munich was and is absolutely ideal to set up a company Hendrik Lesser: »When the Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s media committee with European and global relevance.« meets, ten percent of the attendees now derive from the games industry.«

tee of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce meets, ten percent of the atten- abling them to pay their office, phone and rent. Furthermore, we also assist dees now derive from the games industry. them in networking so that they know they are not alone.

Mr. Kundratitz, how do you rate Bavaria and Munich as an industry hub? How can the Bavarian games industry strengthen its public Klemens Kundratitz When I established the company Koch Media together relations, Mr. Schaefer? with Franz Koch in 1994, it was crystal clear to us that to set up a company Klaus Schaefer We are already looking at integrating games across the board with European and global relevance, Munich was and is absolutely an ideal. at all major Bavarian events. The Munich film festival for example is having a The quality of life speaks for Munich as much as its accessibility does. As a Ba- special games theme for the first time this year. At the documentary film fes- varian company we clearly need to have recourse to an international net- tival DOK.fest and DOK.forum, games and transmedia storytelling is a key as- work. We need people from universities as well as people from abroad. This pect of the venue. Games will also be a theme at the »Medientage München« synergy can create something great together. I must however add: We find it fair. We also regularly write about new developments in the Bavarian region really difficult to get specialists from abroad and from other regions in Ger- in our own magazine FilmNews and on Facebook. many to come to Munich, because many people find it difficult to come to terms with the disparity between the salary levels in the industry compared Thomas Kreuzer In the past we organized four editions of the »Munich to the cost of living. That’s a real problem and we would be grateful if we Gaming« congress and we continue to evaluate new prospects for other ven- could get some support in that regard. ues of the kind. In 2014 we would like to once again host a games congress and to organize the award ceremony of the German Computer Game Prize in Thomas Kreuzer The living situation is definitely a real concern to me. We Munich. The aim is very clear: As a Free State we would like to promote Ba- must push ahead with the construction of student residences; we have stock- varia as a games hub. We are doing a great deal to make the games industry piled funds for this all over the State. I am constantly thinking of new ways to feel welcome in Bavaria. I’m strongly enforcing and I would like to make it help young creative talent. There’s already quite a lot happening in the film absolutely clear that games do rank among our cultural treasures. We value industry as we help young talent to embark as freelancers with grants en- games and I envisage it to be a market with enormous prospects here.

Bavaria – Enter the Game 9 THE STORY A GAMES YEAR IN BAVARIA

PLAYERS NETWORK PLANNERS: FFF & THE STATE CHANCELLERY

A year, so they say, has 365 days. However, that‘s not always the case. Whereas it‘s perfectly right to say that all those interested in gaming can experience something new daily – from New Year‘s Day to New Year‘s Eve. Please find some exemplary venues from 2012 and 2013.

JANUARY FEBRUARY

MEDIENNETZWERK BAYERN DEMODAY The experimental student project »Eyeball« is New networking strategy: A day when eyeballs will run among the Demoday highlights. On January 28th 2013, the riot! On February 5th 2013, some Bavarian Media Minister pretty weird scenes are to be expected on the campus of the Technical Thomas Kreuzer introduc- University (TUM), like for instance eyeballs rolling through an under- es the »Mediennetzwerk ground cellar, with zombies dancing in their midst. On screen is a Bayern«. Mr. Kreuzer on game entitled »Eyeball« – one of several games projects that 32 stu- One logo, many initiatives: the Mediennetzwerk. the aim of the initiative: dent groups are presenting to the public as part of the Demoday. Visi- »With the Mediennetz- tors can have a closer look on other productions, displayed on rows of werk Bayern, we intend to optimize the pre-existing network and long tables in front of the FMI (faculty buildings for Mathematics and link creative people and companies from various sectors of the me- Computer Science), talk to the creators and find out more about the dia world and the various regions in the state of Bavaria. In this development and production process. »Games Engineering« is the way, we will further promote Bavaria as a media hub.« name of the course at the Technical University (TUM) where, in just In partnership with the Bavarian Broadcasting, the Bavarian one semester, young creators are able to develop and program an en- media regulatory agency (BLM), the FilmFernsehFonds Bayern and tire game. Students from the TU Munich, the University of Television MedienCampus Bayern, the Mediennetzwerk Bayern builds on the and Film (HFF) Munich, representatives from the games industry and work of the previous Cluster audiovisuelle Medien (CAM). Large anyone interested in games and education are cordially invited. and small size companies, start-ups, creative types, freelancers, FEBRUARY and students – the entire media industry spectrum should feel as a part of this family network. Individual members initiate projects; ECONOMIC STUDY others express interest or commit, and some finalize co-operation More games than films: On February 27th 2013, the Department of agreements. There’s a mutual exchange of information and with a Labour and Economic Development of the City of Munich publishes new view of working hand in hand rather than against each other. A facts and figures from the greater local area in their study »Munich: head office located at the State Chancellery is to be responsible for the economic location«. The report states that the number of people dealing with overall matters, to provide support and coordinate employed in the software and games industries is currently estimated cross-media projects and respective venues. In the State’s bienni- at 14,927 and collectively produce a turnover of €1,706 billion. In um budget for 2013/2014, €150,000 p.a.is allocated for the work comparison: the press has a head count of 10,665 and the film industry provided by the Mediennetzwerk Bayern. currently numbers 4,862, between employees and jobholders.

www.mediennetzwerk.bayern.de www.wirtschaft-muenchen.de

10 Bavaria – Enter the Game MARCH DO IT YOURSELF! Supporting the youth: The joint initiative »Do it yourself« from the Bavarian media regulatory BLM and the JFF (Institute for Media Education in Research and Practice) supports media projects for young people between the ages of 14 and 22 in Bavaria. Beginners that flirt with the idea of a career in games and apps production can apply for a subsidy of up to €1,500 for their concepts. And through an extra fund subsidy, those who are more advanced can receive up to €4,000 for their projects. Special- ist staff for media educational projects in schools, after school-establishments and youth clubs can receive aid of up to €2,000 in funding for equipment. The application deadline is in March every year.

www.ineigenerregie.de

MARCH CARTOON GAMES Together and not alone: This also holds true for the games industry. The Bavarian State Chancellery and the FFF Bayern are constantly trying out new ways to improve networking among partners from the fields of industry, trade, society and politics. Mid-March 2013 sees a games delegation travelling to the »Cartoon Movie« trade fair in Lyon – an initiative by the FFF. Bavarian developers and games professors will use Cartoon Games: Panel discussions and this opportunity to obtain free accreditation and to swap over 100 one-to-one meetings help to broaden and consolidate the network ideas with European animation producers. The aim, under the between the games industry and other umbrella of the »Cartoon Games« trade fair, is connecting the international partners. animation and the games world.

APRIL GAMES FUNDING Decision day: The games allocation committee of the FFF Bayern convenes twice a year to discuss which video game project with educational and cultural merit should receive subsidies. Support is provided for concepts, prototypes and production. Development studios and publishers can apply for funds. The forms are available online. The first submission deadline in 2013 is March 12th and the second October 15th. Four weeks later, after the allocation body has convened, a list of the games projects awarded funding will be published. Approxi- mately around a dozen PC and videogame projects are one step closer to being produced. The production of the fantasy puzzle game »Word Wonders« by the Munich-based firm Chimera was supported with funds of €140,000. www.fff-bayern.de

Bavaria – Enter the Game 11 MAY SALES GIANT BAVARIA On May 6th 2013, the games industry and policy makers meet at WERK1 on the occasion of »Games im Zentrum«. During this event, the »Medientage München« presents a research study providing current data on the games hub. A few economic figures prove to be particularly interesting. For example, 228 games companies based in Bavaria achieved a turnover of €1.21 billion. That corresponds to 56% of the turnover generated by games companies nationwide.

JUNE JULY UPDATE GAMES On June 13th 2013, the FFF Bayern and the law firm RETRO EXCHANGE Oldies but goodies: On July 20th 2013, fans of classical computer and SKW Schwarz, with support of the State Chancellery, videogames meet in Rosenheim, in Upper Bavaria, for the 4th Retro invite game developers to the second »Update Exchange. If you want to see home computers from the ’80s in action Games« venue in Bavaria. The topic: »Marketing for or if you are looking for well-maintained games modules for your old mobile and browser games – everything you need Atari consoles, then this is the place for you! to know as a developer«. Also being presented are two Bavarian hopefuls, i.e. two nearly completed videogames made possible with the help of the local funding. To be continued ...

AUGUST GAMESCOM Let’s go West! Bavarian game developers have the opportunity to showcase their know-how at the videogame trade fair »gamescom« in Cologne. The event is organized by WERK1 and with compliments of the Bavarian umbrella booth exhibitors without Brenner Andy Photo: Buying and selling, gaming and gossiping: At the 4th Retro Exchange in Rosen- a stand use the area for meetings. The trade fair is heim, fans of videogames of the ‘80s and ‘90s come together. held from the 22nd to 25th of August 2013.

SEPTEMBER GAMESCAMPUS The highest accolade: Following up on last year’s huge success, game professors from all over Bavaria will gather together at the »GamesCampus«. Date: 13th September 2013 and the venue will be held on the campus of the College of Media Design in Munich. During the last session in September 2012, Profes- sor Jörg Müller-Lietzkow from the University of Paderborn was very positive about the regional educational efforts: »Bavaria, along with Hamburg and Ber- lin, is doing the best job when it comes to games.« However, the participants are also unanimous on the need for stronger state support in the field of games: There’s still potential for development.

www.mediencampus.de

12 Bavaria – Enter the Game OCTOBER BEGINNING OF THE SEMESTER Get a decent education: On October 1st 2013, the College of Media Design in Munich launches Bachelor Degree courses in »Game Design« and »Games En- gineering«, including specialization in artwork and programming. Full-time study in Munich, Kempten, Augsburg and other locations, spanning from six to seven semesters, is eligible for the BAföG (German Federal Law on Support in Education) student grants and gives rise to a lot of talent.

www.mediencampus.de

OCTOBER MEDIENTAGE MÜNCHEN A mega media venue: From October 16th to 18th 2013, the general public with an interest in Entertainment software from Bavaria is media and games in particular often engrained in college communities. This also gives rise to, for example, the will convene at the »Medientage card game »Tridek« from the Munich- München« event together with based developer Bit Barons. many disti ng uished guests. At the International Congress Centre Dr. Olaf Coenen, the managing director of the video- (ICM) on Munich’s trade fair game producer EA Deutschland, discusses the evolution grounds, visitors can rub shoul- of the gaming industry at the Medientage 2012. ders with prominent figures from the media scene and take part in NOVEMBER a wide variety of interesting lectures, showcases and workshops. GAME CONNECTION One of the highlights is the »Media Night« – managers, producers, Trip to Paris: In November 2013, numerous Bavarian politicians, PR experts and other employees from the media, film game developers once again travel under the umbrel- and games industries will gather for an exclusive evening in one of la brand »Games/Bavaria« to make their grand entry the most beautiful locations in Munich. at the international trade fair »Game Connection«. After Finland, Bavaria is the second biggest exhibitor www.medientage.de – thanks to the financial aid from the Free State.

DECEMBER GAMES-REPORT Year in, year out, the MedienCampus Bayern sends students to do internships at games companies in Québec, Bavaria’s partner province in Canada. An information day is held in December at the faculty of the TU Munich in Garching where the returnees present the projects developed there. Information on that scholarship and calls for proposals for 2014 complete the event.

Bavaria – Enter the Game 13 The Bavarian community flies the flag around the world under the motto »Games/Bavaria«. Also at the gamescom in Cologne.

THE INTRO GAMES FUNDING

PLAYER FILMFERNSEHFONDS BAYERN

Creating a computer game is time-consuming and expensive. Whoever takes on the risk as a company can count on the support of the Free State of Bavaria. Shoulder to shoulder with developers and publishers, the FilmFernsehFonds Bayern (FFF) lends a helping hand in getting games projects off the ground.

The »Woodlies«, for instance, might never have become the energetic a trial version of »Woodlies – Kein Keks für Kobolde« (Woodlies – No pixilated characters they are without the FFF. Based on the book of the Biscuits For the Goblins) was produced – a computer game that gives same title by best-selling author Cornelia Funke and the accompanying children an understanding of themes like friendship, nature, the envi- animated TV series, a charming computer game for children was envis- ronment and social behaviour in a fun way; themes that have been aged. And so, at the end of 2010, the Munich film and television produc- heavily under-represented on the computer games market up to now. tion company Studio100 Media started kicking ideas around. It was The mission of FFF Bayern is to fund high-quality, educationally and hoped to make the plan a reality with the cooperation of the Würzburg culturally valuable computer games while simultaneously strengthening based game developer Kritzelkratz 3000. However, the financial risks ini- the competitiveness of the Bavarian games development and production tially seemed too high. Studio100 Media therefore filed a funding appli- industry. The Bavarian Computer Games Funding Programme was cation with FFF in early 2011 for developing a prototype. The application initiated by the Bavarian State Chancellery in September 2009. It is was approved in April of the same year. With €60,000 financial support, aimed primarily at small and medium-sized businesses. Start-ups are

Contact Dr. Michaela Haberlander +49 (0) 89 / 54 46 02 15 [email protected]

14 Bavaria – Enter the Game Following the opening speech by State Minister Thomas Kreuzer, The computer games »Woodlies – Kein Keks für Kobolde« is one of many projects which the Bavarian State computer games were discussed over pretzels and beer. Chancellery and the FilmFernsehFonds Bayern was able to lend a helping hand in its creation.

also most welcome, of course. Financial support of around €550,000 is ventures, the FFF links games developers to industry colleagues as well available in 2013, distributed by the FFF and the LfA Förderbank Bayern. as with TV, animation and post-production studios. The FFF is represented Studios and companies that are based in Bavaria and concentrate on world-wide at trade fairs and forums and was greatly involved in the the development and publishing of computer games are eligible. Support establishment of the new business incubator WERK1 in Munich. Funding is provided for the development of concepts and prototypes as well as advisor Michaela Haberlander will always have a sympathetic ear for any subsequent production. Funds are authorised as partly interest-free anyone interested in creating computer games. For example, she will and conditionally repayable loans. make practical suggestions in relation to applying for games funding: A committee of seven people decide on the allocation of resources. »The funding application is really not rocket science. The applicants, Klaus Schaefer, the managing director of the FFF, as well as high-ranking however, need to be aware of the fact that there is tax money involved. representatives from the fields of industry, politics, youth protection in So much has happened in the Bavarian games industry in recent years. the media and media research assess the cultural and educational The industry has found enlightened and, above all, reliable partners in standards as well as the commercial viability of all proposals and funding Bavarian media politicians and institutions that consistently fight for the applications submitted. The committee meets twice a year. Applicants to socio-political recognition of digital games. The educational and cultural the FFF can find the application value is the decisive factor when we guidelines and forms on its official evaluate all the applications.« Those website. Submission deadlines are at the who meet the criteria have good end of March and October, while chances of success: Of the 84 games decisions are published the following projects for which a funding application month, in April and November. was submitted between 2009 and 2012, The FFF, however, not only supports 38 were approved by FFF and the games projects but also industry creators were consequently one step structures. At joint trade fairs and closer to realizing their project.

Together with sponsors and other industrial institutions, the FilmFernsehFonds Bayern promotes the cross-linking of the gaming industry with other industries. It's also happy to lend a hand on bracing walks up to the mountains of Garmisch.

www.fff-bayern.de facebook.com/FilmFernsehFondsBayernGmbh

Bavaria – Enter the Game 15 Modern architecture and lots of open space: The free-floating observation bridge is located directly above the event hall, which has room for up to 200 people.

THE BASIS THE GAMES COMMUNITY FINDS ITS HOME

PLAYER WERK1

February 1st, 2013 saw the birth of a new star in the gaming galaxy. Shining in the heart of Munich, scientists have christened it »WERK1«. Bavaria’s best and brightest, and game industry insiders over the world, are training their telescopes on it.

The idea for WERK1 began as a dream among the Bavarian game in- And it’s true – the dynamic center near dustry’s scattered representatives. At long last, their call for a central Munich’s Ostbahnhof train station really meeting place was heard. The Ministry of Economics and the State Chan- does offer everything that young companies cellery provided funding to construct a next-gen center for collaboration. and established firms need to grow and succeed. It opened its doors at the beginning of 2013: the house that games built. Who knows what ideas would bloom if the VSK (Mu- WERK1’s mission is to create a common home for creatives, devel- nich’s video game cultural association) and the Bit Bar- opers and entrepreneurs – a center for the founders building the digital ons (Munich’s up-and-coming game dev studio) were to economy. »WERK1 München is a hotspot in the digital founders scene meet up for a coffee break or a quick round of PvP? They’re and it offers the best conditions for start-ups that want to network with- both WERK1 tenants and they value its founder-friendly rental in the games industry. New founders and experienced CEOs, iconoclastic concepts and community planning. Meet new people, build rela- indies and established studios, universities and investors – they all come tionships, sling code, share ideas and gather feedback in a friendly, together here,« says Franz Glatz, head of WERK1. relaxing and inspiring environment. It’s the WERK1 way.

Contact Tom Wendel +49 (0) 89 / 99 52 99 23 [email protected]

16 Bavaria – Enter the Game Modern architecture and lots of open space: If you're not interested in networking or exchanging ideas: WERK1 sees itself as the start-up business center of the digital world The free-floating observation bridge is located directly above the event hall, which has room for up to 200 people. Just close the door and work in peace. and as a meeting point for people from the gaming industry.

The 28 office rooms, two coworking areas and five conference rooms are nich Creative Business Week. It’s no surprise that GameCamp and the Mu- bright and airy, just right for fostering inspiring exchanges among kin- nich branch of the International Game Developers Association are also ac- dred spirits. The 100 Mbit/s fiber optic connection pipes opinions, ideas tive in WERK1. Not even the Bavarian Minister of Media, Thomas Kreutzer, and inspiration to the outside world. And anyone who needs to catch could resist its charms. In May 2013 he took the stage there to present the their breath can step out onto the rooftop terrace and enjoy a view of results of Medientage München GmbH’s survey of the state of the Bavari- the Bavarian capital. When it’s time to celebrate a new milestone or a an games industry as part of the »Games im Zentrum« series of events. successful launch, digital natives can plunge right into the joyous chaos FilmFernsehFonds Bayern (FFF), Bavaria’s state agency for funding of the Kultfabrik, the former factory complex that’s become Munich’s and supporting film, television and gaming endeavors, uses WERK1 as a premier creative and clubbing center. Downtown Munich, the central consulting center for those who want to know more about support for train station and the airport are all close by. And those who need a bit of games in Bavaria. WERK1 and FFF work with a customized consulting plan peace and quiet need not worry: WERK1’s offices do have doors, after all. to provide the best possible advice to all those striving to realize innova- Just click the lock, draw the shades and tive projects and ideas. And whenever the sink into a peaceful oasis of command opportunity presents itself, FFF and line code and UIViewController hacks. WERK1 sally forth, carrying their “Games/ Franz Glatz and his team see WERK1 Bavaria” banner across the Bavarian bor- as the glue holding the creative and en- ders. If you’d found yourself at the Game trepreneurial scene together. The many Developer Conference in San Francisco at meetings, events and lectures at the cen- the end of March 2013, you’d have been ter emphasize just how true that is. The able to trade war stories and maybe quaff schedule has been packed since the center a beer or two with WERK1 community opened at the end of January 2013. Peo- manager Tom Wendel and Michaela ple from every corner of Bavaria, Germany Haberlander, the head of FFF’s Games de- and the world have filled WERK1 with The videogame »Zombie Love Affair« came to life withn 48 partment. Video games have a way of sparks of creativity during the Global hours at the »Global Game Jam«. WERK1 offers the perfect drawing people together, especially in Game Jam, Microsoft Dev Days and Mu- setting for these kinds of events. WERK1. Stop by and see for yourself.

www.werk1muenchen.de facebook.com/werk1muenchen

Bavaria – Enter the Game 17 THE TUTORIAL TRAINING IN BAVARIA

PLAYER MEDIENCAMPUS

Even in computer games, masters rarely fall from the sky, and there is perhaps no other industry which offers such diverse and challenging career opportunities as that of games development. But where can you find apprenticeships and who offers places to study? The MedienCampus team has the answers.

Not all outsiders realize the complex creative work that goes into a State of Bavaria. The MedienCampus has made it their motto to promote videogame at first glance. The software labyrinth pools together people as well as to coordinate all basic and advanced media training in Bavaria from different abilities and different fields such as mathematics and and the bare figures are the best proof of how well the team operates un- physics, computer graphics and programming logic, artificial intelligence der MedienCampus director Markus Kaiser. 72 universities, colleges and as well as actual »hands on« activities. The academies were involved in the MedienCampus expertise of individuals combined with the in 2010; in 2013 that figure now stands at just collective abilities of an enthusiastic team gives under 90 and especially significant is the in- rise to excellent software entertainment. But crease in training opportunities for careers how does one obtain the necessary know-how? within the games industry. Today for example, The mission of MedienCampus: providing anyone wishing to grasp the various facets of careers and study advice for school and college game design from the ground up can do so at students interested in entering the media in- numerous schools and universities. dustry. In addition, it aims to provide informa- »Cooperation between private and state tion for teachers, politicians and companies Once a year, MedienCampus publishes the free academies, colleges and universities within that would like to learn more about basic, fur- »Medien-Magazin«, containing lots of advice on Bavaria opens up new opportunities for collabo- ther and advanced training schemes in the Free training and applying for jobs. ration. The Free State is well positioned with re-

Contact Markus Kaiser +49 (0) 89 / 216 691 0 [email protected]

18 Bavaria – Enter the Game How are international blockbusters like »Assassin’s Creed 3« made? MedienCampus sent five trainees to Québec in 2012 on a gaming exchange program. There, they were able to – among other things – get a taste of being a developer at Ubisoft.

The highlight of MedienCampus' Bavarian-wide information events: the »Medientage München«.

Anyone wanting to work on an action game in the style of »Dark« (developed by the Munich-based Realm- forge-Studio) can learn all they need to know about the respective training opportunities at MedienCampus.

gards to basic and advanced training. MedienCampus’ aim is to make it MedienCampus booth, media companies, academies, colleges and uni- all transparent and enhance the networking among the various players,« versities, all provide invaluable information. Undergraduates look for in- explains Markus Kaiser. He and his employees, together with Medien- ternships, jobs and Master’s programs, while teachers learn more about Campus’ member institutions, are constantly on the move and always P seminars. The latter refers to courses held in the Bavarian grammar keeping a dialog open with teachers and students alike. Creative and schools for students of higher grades working independently on practi- media career opportunities within the games industry and in related in- cal projects. At the »Medientage« event, the MedienCampus and its dustries are show-cased at information events. Mid-March 2013: Young members also make presentations on introductory programs, scholar- visitors were given the opportunity to attend a Q&A session at »Trainee ships and exchange programs. In September 2012, for example, the Mu- and Student Days« exhibition, held at the MOC conference center in Mu- nich College of Media Design – a member of MedienCampus – invited nich, on such topics as: How do I become a cross-media producer? school groups to its »Animation Workshop«. During the various lectures Where can I learn the trade of games programming? Which Bavarian students were able to get a first hand impression of what it’s like to be academies and colleges of higher education offer a course with a degree an animation designer as well as gathering practical experience in creat- in »Computer Science: Games Engineering« or offer a »Bachelor of Arts«? ing actual motion analysis – a first step into the games industry. The answers can be found on site. The highlight of the road-shows is the »Medientage Munich«, which takes place from October 16th to18th 2013, in the ICM building at the Munich trade fair grounds. On the

www.medienwiki.org facebook.com/MedienCampus

Bavaria – Enter the Game 19 The latest creation from Mimimi goes by the name »The Last Tinker: City of Colors«. The Mimimi developed the conversion of the board game »Whoowasit?« FilmFernsehFonds Bayern supported the project in its prototype phase. on behalf of Ravensburger Digital.

MISSION FROM A TEAM OF STUDENTS TO A GAME STUDIO

PLAYER MIMIMI PRODUCTIONS

For all intents and purposes, the Munich students just wanted to make a videogame. Little did they know that within just a few years they would Many members of the Mimimi team had sweep the board at award winning ceremonies and establish their very already worked together as students. own games studio. But that’s exactly how things panned out.

»Commander Keen« is to blame for it all! Johannes Roth is a huge fan of Munich games studio Reality Twist gave them a helping hand by providing the action hero from the PC game series. Together with fellow students hardware and software for the production. Hence, the idea started to live from the Munich College of Media Design, Roth wanted to create a similar on the iPad under the name of »daWindci« and won several top prizes, in- game. Thus, the action puzzle game »Grounded« was born, and with it the cluding the prestigious »Apple Design Award«. first success: They won the second place in the developers’ competition Their success however didn’t just come out of the blue. »Without »Gamesload Newcomer Awards« in December 2009. The seed was sown! networking, nothing happens in this industry. It’s important to know The mission of Mimimi Productions: Developing entertaining games, who you can turn to,« explains Johannes Roth, now one of the managing having fun and earning enough money to live on and to play video games. directors of Mimimi along with Dominik Abé. Consequently, Roth and Co. The same was true as early on as 2010 when the students wanted to prove applied for subsidies from the Bavarian FilmFernsehFonds during the that »Grounded« wasn’t just a one hit wonder. The team focused on a sim- planning phase of their next project »The Last Tinker: City of Colors«. The ple idea: Players were to guide a balloon indirectly through an obstacle Allocation Committee was impressed by the project and a prototype was course using gusts of wind – an idea by Mimimi co-founder Dominik Abé. developed with €80,000 worth of subsidy monies. The prototype, sup- However, the PC prototype felt lifeless. Then someone suggested adapting ported by the FFF, goes on to win over more than one hundred competi- the idea for iPad touch-screens. At the time however Mimimi did not have tors from all over Europe, at the Game Connection Europe and receives a the resources to develop an iOS game. Then some good friends from the publishing deal. The seed starts to bear fruit.

www.mimimi-productions.de facebook.com/mimimiprod

20 Bavaria – Enter the Game MISSION FROM BOARD GAMES TO HYBRID GAMES

PLAYER RAVENSBURGER DIGITAL

The roots of the Japanese videogame giants Nintendo can be traced back to the year 1889. One German company has been around even longer.

Since 1883, the blue triangle logo of Ravensburger stands for quality en- system and cool graphics. Other success stories include the iOS tertainment, board games and puzzles. Whole generations have grown version of »Scotland Yard« which topped the German iPad charts up with games from Ravensburger. It’s just that today’s kids load the immediately upon its release and »THE aMAZEing Labyrinth«, which was »Supertrump« quartet on their iPhones instead of taking it out of their awarded the German computer game prize for »Best Mobile Game 2012«. backpacks. The app is one of many published by Ravensburger Digital. Home base for the 25 employees and their managing director Since 2009, this Munich-based subsidiary company of Ravensburger Thomas Bleyer is Munich. And why was this particular location chosen as group has focused on developing and marketing games apps as well as a base? »For us, Munich offers the optimal combination of an innovative online games for players of all ages. environment, qualified employees and a high quality of life. Further- The mission of Ravensburger Digital: adapting innovative concepts more, the gaming industry is becoming increasingly relevant in Bavaria and best selling card and board games for digital gaming platforms, thus as an economic factor. With the development of hybrid games – i.e. the refreshing popular brands. For example, the dice game »Las Vegas« takes combination of digital and physical games – Ravensburger Digital will on a whole new meaning on the iPhone: brand new and innovative fac- continue to live up to its motto ›Discover the infinite world of games‹ ets of this gambling game emerge through its touch screen operating long into the future!« explains Thomas Bleyer.

Managing director Thomas Bleyer and the Ravensburger Digital team.

www.ravensburger-digital.com facebook.com/RavensburgerDigitalGmbH

Bavaria – Enter the Game 21 MISSION TO BRING GAMES TO MILLIONS OF MOBILE PHONES

PLAYER HANDYGAMES

Videogames and smartphones are a billion dollar business and the medium-sized company HandyGames from the placid small town of Giebelstadt near Würzburg is a global player.

Success was by no means granted when native Franconians Markus and and tablet computers. The games are Chistopher Kassulke founded the company HandyGames together with designed from the ground up with Udo Bausewein in 2000. Back then, it was impossible to predict whether mobile gaming in mind. The strategy mobile phones and videogames would actually become a successful game »Clouds & Sheep« gives a good indi- match. At that time, »Snake«, a simple reaction-based game on some cation of what this means. Nokia phones, was making minor waves, and that was about it. Mobile Right off the bat, adorably bleating sheep are phones were used for making phone calls, as personal organizers and for providing instant fun and making your flock of sheep keeping contact lists. Today, things are radically different. According to happy can be done in short bursts, for example in the time the American monetization platform Flurry, about 10 billion US Dollars it takes to reach your destination on the bus. The game’s easy in revenue was generated by apps for modern mobile phones, i.e. smart- controls und smooth gameplay are the result of the expertise phones, in 2012 and 80% of it came from gaming apps. that HandyGames has accumulated over the years. Everything that HandyGames’ mission: to provide gaming entertainment made in works in a game is improved upon and then used in the next game Giebelstadt on a global scale. About 55 employees at HandyGames are projects. This is one of the reasons why the city-building strategy game working to create high-quality gaming entertainment for iOS, Android »Townsmen« doesn’t look dated, even though the Townsmen game series

Players don't necessarily have to look after any sheep in the strategy game »Clouds & Sheep« if they want to have fun. The funny cartoon animals will keep themselves entertained even if you're just watching.

22 Bavaria – Enter the Game HandyGames boasts a wide range of games to satisfy tastes all over the world. The action game »Aces of the Luftwaffe« (left), for example, is very popular in the US, while the build-up game »Townsmen« (right) enjoys particular popularity in Europe.

has been going on for 10 years. In its latest incarnation, the tiny settlers The download numbers have been exploding ever since. About 150,000 stroll through their idyllic villages in gorgeous HD graphics. Even though games per day on average are disseminated throughout the world from the games are becoming more and more sophisticated, development Giebelstadt. »One million on a good day«, comments Christopher times have actually been getting shorter due to improvements to internal Kassulke. Despite the free download strategy, the finances do add up. work processes and development tools. Widely-used technologies like Games are monetized through in-game advertising and via so-called in- Cocos2D-x and GameMaker make it possible to develop a game from first app purchases. »Our mid-term goal is to serve one billion ads per concept to release version within a few months. In the past, this process month«, explains Christopher Kassulke. would have taken half a year or more. Even though the numbers are staggering, the team has kept their Resting on past achievements is, of course, not an option in the feet firmly on the ground. HandyGames sees itself as a family-run every-changing mobile games market. Being able to quickly respond to business that is – and wants to be – deeply rooted in Northern Bavaria. market changes is an important factor in staying successful in this This is also evidenced by the company’s strong commitment to business. Managing director Christopher Kassulke reminisces: »When did supporting and developing young talent. HandyGames offers internship we achieve our commercial breakthrough? That was probably in 2010, opportunities to those who would like to take their first steps in the when we switched our business model to Freemium«. Since that day, games industry, and also offers a path to job training as qualified IT users of iPhone etc. do not have to pay up-front for HandyGames titles, specialist or digital media and print professional. The company also they can download the full game as Freemium version free of charge. sponsors local sports teams and national game jams.

Christopher Kassulke, the co-founder and managing director of HandyGames (left). The latest hardware and software tools assist the creativity of employees (right).

www.handy-games.com facebook.com/handygames

Bavaria – Enter the Game 23 Behind the glass façade of a modern office building in Unterföhring, Together with Sony Entertainment, WB Games and DC Comics, ProSiebenSat.1.Games is the media group is working on new and online games. bringing the superhero battle game »DC Universe Online« to the public.

MISSION VIEWERS BECOME PLAYERS

PLAYER PROSIEBENSAT.1 GAMES

Once again, the atmosphere is electric in the free-to-play action role-playing game DC Universe Online, where numerous comic villains battle against an equal number of superheroes. In Europe, ProSiebenSat.1 Games is responsible for this riveting online battle against the forces of darkness.

Large figures are a specialty of this media giant headquartered in Unter- of Europe. Together with Télévision Française 1 föhring, which is located near Munich. And one figure is especially im- and other media partners, ProSiebenSat.1 pressive because it reflects the exceptional advertising potential of Games also advertises its games in several other ProSiebenSat.1 Games and its parent company: the television commercial neighboring countries, ranging from Spain in the for DC Universe Online reached over 44 million viewers via the ProSieben- west to Turkey in the east. Thomas Ebeling, Chairman Sat.1 Group’s media network. This is also the average number of people of the Board, formulated the company’s goal clearly and who tune in daily to the TV stations Sat.1, ProSieben and kabel eins. Any- unambiguously: »To become one of the top three games one whose curiosity is piqued by these ads is only a few clicks away from publishers in Europe within the next 3 years.« embarking on an adventure – all players have to do is start their browser, Anyone who wishes to find out more about the origins of the type in the URL, register, and they can begin playing immediately! company need not search long. Already in 2006, the ProSiebenSat.1 ProSiebenSat.1 Games’ mission is to license online and mobile games Group showed their ambition in the games sector. Initially, the two from their base of operations in Munich and to market them in the whole subsidiaries Seven-One Intermedia and ProSiebenSat.1 Digital were in-

24 Bavaria – Enter the Game As with all titles from ProSiebenSat.1 Games, the multiplayer online game Already a massive hit in Asia and likely soon to be one in Europe: »Florensia« is Free2Play, i.e. can be played for free. the innovative competitive dancing game »Audition«.

volved in the business of browser and free-to-play games. Following that, And those who find bows, swords and shields too mundane can enter the a growth spurt occurred in the summer of 2011: By cooperating with the world of DC Universe Online, where a seemingly endless number of super- online platform browsergames.de and the incorporation of the games pro- heroes are duking it out in the US comic publisher DC’s virtual playground. vider burda:ic and its gaming platform alaplaya, the ProSiebenSat.1 Group Here, players assume the role of Superman or Batman in order to take on took 8.8 million additional online customers under its wing at one go. the Joker and other supervillains. Over five million players worldwide have Since then, all games activities have been consolidated under the name been unable to resist taking part in epic battles as virtual superheroes, in- ProSiebenSat.1 Games, while at the same time taking advantage of the vesting a total of 3.6 million days in the game. At the same time, the ficti- proximity to the media industry in Munich. tious megacities Metropolis and Gotham City are constantly being expand- Of particular note is the regional and corporate proximity to its own ed with new zones, challenges and collectible items. TV stations. »Planetside 2« and other games from ProSiebenSat.1 Games’ DC Universe Online shares this destiny of unrestrained growth with portfolio are advertised via the company’s own TV channels. Millions of po- ProSiebenSat.1 Games – even in Unterföhring, expansions are under way. tential gamers watch their programming before they play the games. In With the Mobile Games Talent Pool, which was founded in early 2013, this manner, and exclusively in Europe, ProSiebenSat.1 Games has been invest- ProSiebenSat.1 Games has been boost- ing worldwide in mobile games devel- ing the visibility of high-end produc- opers since early 2013. A media fund tions from the US company Sony Online and access to the marketing channels of Entertainment since January 2012. Run the media group provide support for in- from its offices in Bavaria, hundreds of novative projects in this promising mar- thousands of people face off as elves and ket segment. Furthermore, these efforts warriors in Sony’s online multiplayer perfectly complement the support pro- role-playing game »Everquest 2«. vided by the Bavarian Film Commission!

ProSiebenSat.1 Games works closely together with partners from all over the world, e.g. with the development team for the online shoot- em-up »PlanetSide 2«: Sony Online Entertainment from San Diego.

www.prosiebensat1games.com facebook.com/ProSiebenSat1Karriere

Bavaria – Enter the Game 25 In January 2013, Koch Media acquired the rights to »Metro«, a critically acclaimed action game series.

MISSION CORE GAMES FOR THE INTERNATIONAL MARKET

PLAYER KOCH MEDIA

Hardcore gamers aren’t called that just for fun: they form the lifeblood of the gaming scene. From its base in Martinsried, near Munich, Koch Media has won the respect of the gaming community’s toughest critics, and has in turn achieved global success.

Hardcore gamers pour their heart and soul into their videogame hobby. Franz Koch and Klemens Kundratitz in 1994, the firm has grown from They buy the latest hardware as soon as it appears on the shelf and in- strength to strength. Its first in-house production appeared in 2002 vest several hundred Euros annually in entertainment software. In return under the brand name »Deep Silver«. In 2004, the firm’s revenue cleared for their dedication, they expect the cream of the crop. Manufacturers the €100 million hurdle for the first time. In 2006, they made it to the top who want to get in this target group’s good books must know all the of the charts twice in a row with the fantasy role play game »Gothic 3« from tricks of the trade. the firm Piranha Bytes and respectively The mission of Koch Media: the strategy game »Anno 1701« from manufacturing, marketing, distributing Sunflowers. Three years later, the firm’s and co-publishing video and computer revenue grew to over €300 million. In games, all from a single source and of 2010, Koch Media released the Formula the highest level of quality on all the 1 simulation game »F1 2010« together latest hardware platforms. And for this with the English developer reason Koch Media works together with Codesmasters, topping the sales charts renowned partners like Sony, Sega and in France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Square Enix. Since being founded by Germany. At the start of 2013, Koch The two founders of Koch Media: Franz Koch (left) and Klemens Kundratitz (right).

26 Bavaria – Enter the Game Lifelike media convergence: Koch Media worked together with writers from the film and television industry on the production of the adventure game »Secret Files 3«

Media went on to acquire the trademark rights to the bestselling brands launch an extraordinary pilot project thanks to the support of the »Saints Row« and »Metro« from the insolvency assets of the US publisher FilmFernsehFonds Bayern: Koch Media cooperated with writers from the THQ. The Munich-based company also took the US videogame developer film and TV world in the production of »Secret Files 3«, an adventure game Volition under its wing and is currently working flat out to gain a by the development studio Animation Arts, released in 2012. Bridging the foothold in the mobile games market. gap between these two media worlds provided more than a few Aha- From an unpretentious office block in Martinsried near Munich, the moments for all those involved in the production. Andreas Atzwanger, head office today controls branches in the United States, England, managing director of the Munich-based creative pool Neos Film: »Story France, Spain, Italy, Scandinavia, Switzerland, Austria and the Benelux development for film is actually quite different from that of games and countries. Over 500 employees oversee productions to the value of this is a fun challenge for us, also because our writers are film lovers just as several hundred million Euro. Within the industry, such figures would be much as they are games aficionados.« With the help of the Bavarian more commonly associated with companies from the US, Japan or Computer Game Funding programme, the foundation was laid for yet France. Hence the question on everyone’s lips to Koch Media is: why another successful collaboration between the movie and games industry. Munich? »The central location within Europe is beneficial, as is the accessibility. The high standard technological infrastructure facilitates networking with all our partners world-wide, including the day to day communication,« explains company spokesman Martin Metzler. It’s obvious that Koch Media also treasures the creative facets of Germany’s most southern state. »The active games and start-up community in Bavaria brings large and small firms together. Regular game camps and gaming pub nights lead to innovation and growth that benefit everyone and all this is combined with the sheer fun of gaming,« says Vivien Dollinger. As the Head of Development, she keeps an eye on everything that happens at Koch Media’s games label »Deep Silver«. From this building in Martinsried, This certainly includes the contribution of the Free State of Bavaria near Munich, Koch Media con- from an economic point of view. For example, Koch Media was able to ducts its worldwide operations.

www.kochmedia.com facebook.com/deepsilver

Bavaria – Enter the Game 27 THE QUESTS YOU DEFINITELY SHOULD NOT MISS

DATES, EVENTS, CAMPAIGNS

Bavaria’s games industry is not only creative but also proactive, in fact throughout the whole year. A summary of the most important dates from January to December.

APRIL JANUARY GERMAN GLOBAL GAME JAM COMPUTER GAME PRIZE A dozen games enthusiasts meet at WERK1 Munich alternates with Berlin as the venue in Munich to develop a new game in just for the presentation of the German Computer 48 hours. Game Award which honors and promotes outstanding German games productions Information: www.globalgamejam.org every year. Contact: Alexander Zacherl [email protected] Information: www.deutscher-computerspielpreis.de Contact: Bayerische Staatskanzlei, Anette Lenz [email protected] FEBRUARY 1. FFF GAMES FUNDING DEMO DAY COMMITTEE JUNE At the end of each semester, the IT students The FFF Games Funding Committee convenes GAMES UPDATE from TU München present their work to the and takes the decisions whose projects will FOR BAVARIA public, including many games projects. get funding. Munich based law firm SKW Schwarz and FFF Bayern regularly invite to seminars and con- Information: www.in.tum.de/demoday Information: www.fff-bayern.de Contact: Dr. Michaela Haberlander ferences on important topics for the industry [email protected] as for example »Marketing and Sales for apps MARCH and browser games«. 1. SUBMISSION DATE FOR GAMES FUNDING Contact: Dr. Michaela Haberlander APPLICATIONS MAY [email protected] Applicants for games funding should finalize GAMES IM ZENTRUM all necessary documents and send them to Representatives of the gaming industry and GAMECAMP MUNICH FFF Bayern within the deadline. politics meet at the »Games im Zentrum« to The industry meets once a year for a free Bar- discuss current issues relevant to the hub. Camp to openly discuss current games devel- Information: www.fff-bayern.de opment topics and challenges. Contact: Dr. Michaela Haberlander Contact: Bayerische Staatskanzlei, Anette Lenz [email protected] [email protected] Information: www.gamecampmunich.de

28 Bavaria– Enter the Game AUGUST BAVARIAN BOOTH AT GAMESCOM Bavarian games developers present themselves and their skills at the world’s largest computer and videogame trade fair, organized by WERK1. JULY GAMES INDUSTRY Contact: Tom Wendel NOVEMBER [email protected] MOUNTAIN HIKE 2. FFF GAMES FUNDING Couch potatoes no way! Game developers COMMITTEE love nature too. Organized by FFF Bayern, the The Games Funding Committee meets for the Bavarian games industry hikes up the Free second time of the year and decides on the SEPTEMBER State's most beautiful mountains. granting of funds. GAMESCAMPUS Information: www.fff-bayern.de Bavaria’s games professors meet at a confer- Information: www.fff-bayern.de Contact: Dr. Michaela Haberlander ence organized by MedienCampus to coordi- Contact: Dr. Michaela Haberlander [email protected] nate and network educational courses. [email protected]

GAMES SPECIAL Information: www.mediencampus.de AT THE FILMFEST MÜNCHEN Contact: Markus Kaiser Games will be a central theme at the Munich [email protected] Filmfestival for three days in a row. Not only DECEMBER documentaries are being shown but also mov- DELEGATION'S TRIP TO ies that deliberately pick up on the aesthetics GAME CONNECTION PARIS and stylistic devices of the games culture. OCTOBER Developers and publishers of videogames 2. SUBMISSION DATE meet in Paris for three days to network and Information: www.filmfest-muenchen.de FOR GAMES FUNDING talk about joint projects. Thanks to public Contact: [email protected] APPLICATIONS support Bavaria represents one of the largest Funding applications, which are to be consid- delegations. ANIMATION MEETING ered at the second meeting of the Games Com- During the Munich Filmfestival, Germany’s mittee must be submitted by mid-October. leading animation experts meet to discuss Information: www.fff-bayern.de Contact: Tom Wendel, new trends and technologies for visual ef- Information: www.fff-bayern.de [email protected] fects in films and games. Contact: Dr. Michaela Haberlander [email protected] GAMES-CONFERENCE Information: www.filmtoolsconsult.de Year after year, MedienCampus Bayern MEDIENTAGE MÜNCHEN sends students to Québec to do internships The Media Days Munich is Europe’s largest DEMO DAY at gaming companies to complete intern- media congress. Being one of the most im- At the end of each semester, the IT students ships at gaming companies on site. These portant media topics of our days, games are from TU München present their work to the students report on their experiences at this naturally a topic at workshops, in discussions public, including many games projects. games conference. and lectures at the Congress Center in Mu- nich’s trade fair grounds. Information: www.in.tum.de/demoday Information: www.mediencampus.de Contact: Markus Kaiser Information: www.medientage.de [email protected]

Bavaria – Enter the Game 29 BAVARIA’S GAMES INDUSTRY FROM A-Z

COMPANY INDEX

Be it developer, publisher, trader or service provider: More than 200 companies are actively participating in Bavaria‘s games industry, covering all kinds of fields. Here you can find all important contact details.

Company Street ZIP City Website Aschaffenburg EX-Trade GmbH & Co. KG Benzstr. 2a 63741 Aschaffenburg www.ex-trade.net Gamesrocket GmbH Würzburger Str. 152 63743 Aschaffenburg www.gamesrocket.de

Bamberg upjers GmbH & Co. KG Hafenstr. 13 96052 Bamberg de.upjers.com

Bernried Playata GmbH Waxensteinerstr. 17 82347 Bernried www.playata.com

Burglengenfeld 505 Games Brunnfeld 2-6 93133 Burglengenfeld www.505games.co.uk NBG Handels und Verlags GmbH Brunnfeld 2-6 93133 Burglengenfeld www.nbg-online.de

Dornach b. München AMD Advanced Micro Devices GmbH Einsteinring 24 85609 Dornach b. München www.amd.com

Eichenau narayana Games UG Ganghoferstr. 3 82223 Eichenau www.narayana-games.net

Feldkirchen Intel Deutschland GmbH Dornacherstr. 1 85622 Feldkirchen www.intel.com

Fürth Computec Media AG Dr.-Mack-Str. 83 90762 Fürth www.computec.de

Füssen Trollgames GmbH Brunnengasse 12 87629 Füssen www.trollgames.de

Garching Akamai Technologies GmbH Parkring 29 85748 Garching www.akamai.com

30 Bavaria – Enter the Game Company Street ZIP City Website Gersthofen Red Moon Studios GmbH & Co. KG Dieselstr. 16 86368 Gersthofen www.redmoonstudios.de

Giebelstadt Handy Games GmbH i_Park Klingholz 13 97232 Giebelstadt www.handy-games.com Wortspielmacher Fliederweg 4 97232 Giebelstadt www.wortspielmacher.de

Großostheim Nintendo of Europe GmbH Nintendo Center 63760 Großostheim www.nintendo.de

Haag Knights Of Soundtrack Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 7a 83527 Haag www.KnightsOfSoundtrack.com

Ingolstadt Media Saturn Holding GmbH Wankelstr. 5 85046 Ingolstadt www.media-saturn.com

Ismaning Activision Blizzard Deutschland GmbH Fraunhoferstr. 7 85737 Ismaning www.activision.com Euro Video Bildprogramm GmbH Oskar-Messter-Str. 15 85737 Ismaning www.eurovideo.de

Krün Teamspeak Systems GmbH Soiernstr. 1 82494 Krün www.teamspeak-systems.de

Memmingen Gamestop Deutschland GmbH Fraunhoferstr. 84 87700 Memmingen www.gamestop.de

Monheim Hama GmbH & Co. KG Dresdner Str. 9 86653 Monheim www.hama.de

München 2K Ganghoferstr. 70 a 80339 München www.take2.de 7mindfiction UG Walchenseeplatz 21 81539 München www.rolandsusorichter.com Acronis Germany GmbH Landsberger Str. 110 80339 München www.acronis.de Aesir Interactive GbR Claudius Keller Str. 7 81669 München www.aesir-interactive.com aevum GmbH Rumfordstr. 4 80469 München www.aevum.de Affare Dachauerstr. 267 80637 München www.affare.de albertZWEI media GmbH Englmannstr. 2 81673 München www.albert-zwei.de Alias Entertainment GmbH Rumfordstr. 10 80469 München www.aliasentertainment.de amazon.de Marcel-Breuer-Str. 12 80807 München www.amazon.de Apple GmbH Arnulfstr. 19 80335 München www.apple.com appp media GmbH Feinhalsstr. 7 81247 München www.apppmedia.com Augmented Minds Ambrus & Lonau GbR Fasangartenstr. 134 81549 München www.augmented-minds.com Bit Barons GmbH Schellingstr. 35 80799 München www.bitbarons.com Brainmonster Studios GmbH Balanstr. 57 81541 München www.brainmonster.de Bumm Game GmbH Menterschwaigstr. 4 81545 München www.bummfilm.de Burda Broadcast Media GmbH & Co. KG Arabellastr. 23 81925 München www.hubert-burda-media.de

Bavaria – Enter the Game 31 Company Street ZIP City Website Chimera Entertainment GmbH Sendlinger-Tor-Platz 6 80336 München www.chimera-entertainment.de Coda Entertainment GmbH & Co. KG Albrechtstr. 43 80636 München www.coda-entertainment.de cogni.net GmbH Hohenlindener Str. 1 81677 München www.cogni.net Consult Distribution Sales TradeMarketing Wolfratshauser Str 94 D 81379 München www.electronic-goods-salesconsult.com Coreplay GmbH Schleissheimer Str. 6 80333 München www.coreplay.de Cribster UG Rümannstraße 70 80804 München www.foldapps.com deal united GmbH Landshuter Allee 10 80637 München www.dealunited.com Digital Treasure Entertainment (DTE) Landwehrstr. 64a / Rückgebäude 80336 München www.digital-treasure.net Early Learning Group GmbH Balanstr. 73, Haus 11, 2. OG 81541 München www.earlylearninggroup.com Edelman GmbH Landshuter Allee 10 80637 München www.edelman.de European Games Group AG Wiener Platz 7 81667 München www.gamesgroup.eu f+f Distribution GmbH Implerstr. 25a 81371 München www.ffdistribution.de FBPsound Franz-Joseph-Str. 19 80801 München www.fbpsound.com FDG Entertainment GmbH & Co. KG Agnes-Pockels-Bogen 1 80992 München www.fdgsoft.de Film- und Fernseh Synchron GmbH Poccistr. 3 80336 München www.ffs-synchron.de FilmFernsehFonds Bayern GmbH Sonnenstr. 21 80331 München www.fff-bayern.de G+J Entertainment Media GmbH & Co. KG Weihenstephaner Str. 7 81673 München www.e-media.de Gärtner PR Destouchesstr. 68 80796 München www.gaertner-pr.de GOFRESH GmbH Lilienstr. 7 81669 München www.gofresh.de Harvard Public Relations GmbH Implerstr. 26 81371 München www.harvard.de Honey Tracks GmbH Augustenstr. 62 80333 München www.honeytracks.com IDG Entertainment Media GmbH Lyonel-Feininger-Str. 26 80807 München wwwidg.de Industrie- und Handelskammer Balanstr. 55-59 81541 München www.muenchen.ihk.de Level 3 Communications GmbH Wamslerstr. 8 81829 München www.level3.com LEWIS Communications GmbH Baierbrunner Str. 15 81379 München www.lewispr.de Macromedia Hochschule Gollierstr. 4 80339 München www.mhmk.de Marchsreiter Communications GmbH Guldeinstr. 41a 80339 München www.marchsreiter.com Mediadesign Hochschule Claudius-Keller-Str.7 81669 München www.mediadesign-fh.de mediascale Gmbh & Co. KG Brienner Str. 45 a-d 80333 München www.mediascale.de Mediencampus Bayern Liebigstr. 8 80538 München www.mediencampus.de MegaZebra GmbH Steinsdorfstr. 2 80538 München www.megazebra.com metaio GmbH Infanteriestr. 19 / House 4b 80797 München www.metaio.com Mimimi Productions UG Berg-am-Laim-Str. 64 81673 München www.mimimi-productions.de MindMatics AG Marcel-Breuer-Str. 18 80807 München corporate.mindmatics.com Morphicon Limited Lindwurmgasse 88 80337 München www.petergames.de Neos Film GmbH & Co.KG Metzstr. 14b 81667 München www.neosfilm.de nexxter interactive services GmbH Guido-Schneble-Str. 62 80689 München www.nexxter.com NVIDIA GmbH Rosenheimer Str. 145b 81671 München www.nvidia.com Owlient SA Demollstr. 15 80638 München www.owlient.eu plazz entertainment AG Kronstadterstr. 4 81677 München www.plazz-entertainment.com Ravensburger Digital GmbH Kaflerstr. 8 81241 München www.ravensburger-digital.com Reality Twist GmbH Berg-am-Laim-Str. 64 81673 München www.reality-twist.com Realmforge Studios GmbH Hofer Str. 15 81737 München www.realmforgestudios.com remote control productions GmbH Sendlinger-Tor-Platz 6 80336 München www.r-control.de retroteam UG Hans Pfann Str. 168 81825 München www.ff-visuals.de RetroVideogames Jakob-Klar-Str. 5 80796 München www.RetroVideogames.net RPM Entertainment Partners GmbH Baaderstr. 19 80469 München www.rpm-entertainment.com SAE München Bayerwaldstr. 43 81737 München www.muenchen.sae.edu

32 Bavaria – Enter the Game Company Street ZIP City Website Scoreloop AG Landsbergerstr. 110 80339 München www.scoreloop.com Seedcrystalgames Metzgerstr. 2 81667 München www.seedcrystalgames.com Shin’en Multimedia Königswieser Str. 83 81475 München www.shinen.com SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte Wittelsbacherplatz 1 80333 München www.skwschwarz.de SONOTON Music GmbH & Co. KG Schleibingerstr. 10 81669 München www.sonoton.com Spinor GmbH Agnes-Pockels-Bogen 1 80992 München www.spinor.com Steadyworks Schwanthaler Str. 22 80336 München www.steadyworks.de swordfish PR Habsburgerplatz 2 80801 München www.swordfish-pr.de Take-Two Interactive GmbH Ganghoferstr. 70a 80339 München www.2kgamesinternational.com Tandt Games Ranertstr. 8 81249 München www.tandt-games.de The Walt Disney Company (Germany) GmbH Kronstadter Str. 9, 11 81677 München www.disney.de TOMORROW FOCUS Media GmbH Steinhauserstr. 1-3 81677 München www.tomorrow-focus.de Travian Games GmbH Wilhelm-Wagenfeld-Str. 22 80807 München www.traviangames.com tausendMedien Ganghofer Str. 82 81373 München ulrichtausend.com United Independent Entertainment GmbH UG Knöbelstr. 14 80538 München www.uieg.de United Soft Media Verlag GmbH Thomas-Wimmer-Ring 11 80539 München www.usm.de Wolpertinger Games Sendlinger-Tor-Platz 6 80336 München www.wolpertingergames.com

Nürnberg GFK SE Nordwestring 101 90419 Nürnberg www.gfk.de Vedes AG Beuthener Str. 43 90471 Nürnberg www.vedes.com XiLLeR GmbH Röselstr. 13 90441 Nürnberg www.xiller.de

Planegg b. München Koch Media Holding GmbH Lochhamer Str. 9 82152 Planegg b. München www.kochmedia.com

Regensburg CipSoft GmbH Gabelsbergerstr. 11 93047 Regensburg www.cipsoft.com dreamfab GmbH & Co. KG Domplatz 3 93047 Regensburg www.dreamfab.com Kupferwerk Merdia GmbH Im Gewerbepark C35 93059 Regensburg www.kupferwerk.com

Schondorf Beople GmbH Seestr. 113 86938 Schondorf www.beople.de

Unterföhring ProSiebenSat.1 Games GmbH Medienallee 19 85774 Unterföhring www.prosiebensat1games.com

Unterschleißheim Microsoft Deutschland GmbH Konrad-Zuse-Str. 1 85716 Unterschleißheim www.microsoft.com

Wörthsee Spielend Lernen Verlag Bullachstr. 2 82237 Wörthsee www.spielend-lernen-verlag.de

Würzburg KRITZELKRATZ 3000 GmbH Dieselstr. 2-6 97082 Würzburg www.kritzelkratz.de Virgin Lands GmbH Gneisenaustr. 10/11 97074 Würzburg www.virgin-lands.com

Bavaria – Enter the Game 33 THE CHARACTERS WHO’S WHO?

YOUR CONTACT PERSONS ...

... for everything ... for questions regarding WERK1 and for regarding funding and networking contacts to the Bavarian games scene Dr. Michaela Haberlander Tom Wendel Funding Advisor Games Community Manager Games +49 (0)89 / 544 602 15 +49 (0)89 / 9952 99 23 [email protected] [email protected]

... for everything ... for questions regarding media education and training regarding location policy Markus Kaiser Anette Lenz Managing Director MedienCampus Regierungsdirektorin Bayerische Staatskanzlei +49 (0)89 / 216 691 10 +49 (0)89 / 216 529 13 [email protected] [email protected]

IMPRESSUM Herausgeber: FilmFernsehFonds Bayern, Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Medien in Bayern GmbH, Sonnenstraße 21, 80331 München, 089 / 544 602 0; Verlag: IDG Entertainment Media GmbH, Lyonel-Feininger-Str. 26, 80807 München, 089 / 360 86 660; Geschäftsführer: York von Heimburg; Verlagsleitung: André Horn; Redaktion Making Games: Heiko Klinge (verantwortlich); Mitarbeit: Richard Löwenstein (Projektkoordination), Anita Blockinger (Layout), Jutta Eckebrecht (Produktionsleitung), w.m.graphiX (Titel), Enssner Zeitgeist Translations & Daina Sacco (Übersetzung)

34 Bavaria – Enter the Game Join in the Game! 16 to 18 October 2013 22 to 24 October 2014 www.medientage.de