The 8th Annual Christian Game Developers Conference is scheduled for July 30 through August 1st, 2009, at Concordia University in Portland, Oregon.  This is a great venue, located close to the Portland Airport (PDX).  Once again, shuttle rides will be provided on certain days and times.  Check http://cgdc.org for updates and to register - only a $20 deposit to hold your slot.  CGDC is the only gathering of Christian game developers that are focused on creating games, teaching, encouraging one another to do good works, and networking.  Attendees can display their game projects and help each other get from concept to the retailer.  Sponsors will also have booths representing their companies.

Some speakers include Matt Langley (Torque), Preston VanderWeyst (XNA Game Studio), and John Bergquist (promotion through social networking tools).  Soma Games will be presenting on iPhone development.  A couple of talks regarding branding from Paper Tower and Josiah Depaoli.  Other proposed talks or workshops are around 2D & 3D art, sound FX, mobile development, interactive storytelling, and more.  There will also be a men’s and women’s break out session.

More speakers and sessions are still being solidified, so check the web site for full schedule.  There are plans to have a variety of sessions this year.  We are seeking sponsors to help with expenses and also offer scholarships to younger developers who may not be able to afford the fees.

The Christian Game industry continues to grow and there have been many solid hits, like Digital Praise’s Guitar Praise and Dance Praise for iPhone, a whole line of products from BibleQuest, and card games like Prophecy and Principality.  Parents, Sunday school teachers, and educators at Christian Schools are encouraged to look at the product line as there are many that are education focused.