The University of Tulsa will host Heartland Gaming Expo 2018 on April 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Reynolds Center. Known as the largest game development competition in the central United States, HGE is free and open to the public. The event will include workshops and demonstrations presented by computer gaming professionals along with student challenges, industry exhibits and food trucks. This year’s expo will focus on immersive virtual reality and augmented reality experiences for games and entertainment.
More information on TU’s computer simulation and gaming degree.
Expo organizers aim to increase awareness around the simulation and gaming industry and other emerging fields in creative technology. Game development is one of the fastest growing sectors in technology, generating revenue of more than $30 billion annually and employing more than 65,000 people in the United States.
Professionals working computer simulation and gaming are skilled in computer programming, software development, engineering, music, fine arts, computer graphics, animation, special effects and storytelling.
“The field of computer simulation and gaming is more than just video games, it’s a blend of creative arts, computer science and technology,” said Computer Simulation and Gaming Instructor Akram Taghavi-Burris. “HGE is a day where gamers can come together to celebrate video games as well as highlight Oklahoma as a creative outlet for all forms of creative art and technology.”
Development and design competitions include a game showcase, gallery show, and 168-hour code jam with categories for elementary, middle school/high school and college/university/career-tech students as well as non-students.