GameDev & XR Meetup Thüringen
A new beginning
Reviving the GameDev & XR Meetup Thüringen: from an idea to reality
The birth of an idea
Joel’s idea for the GameDev & XR Meetup Thüringen was inspired by the success of the GameDev Meetup Leipzig. Seeing the lack of a similar platform in Thuringia, Joel imagined a community where game developers and XR (extended reality) enthusiasts could meet, exchange knowledge and collaborate on projects. The goal was clear: to create a supportive environment that would spark enthusiasm for game development and XR, encourage mutual support and offer networking opportunities.
The meetup would be a place where developers could find collaborators, exchange experiences and learn from one another through regular workshops, game jams and presentations. The vision was one of shared growth, exploring new technologies and building a thriving community where playtesting and feedback could help create better games and experiences.
First steps and early supporters
As Joel began to develop his ideas, he quickly realised that bringing this vision to life would require the support and commitment of others. By a fortunate coincidence, Friedrich Lüder from Games & XR Mitteldeutschland contacted him after hearing about the initiative. Friedrich suggested reviving the GameDev Meetup Thüringen, which had unfortunately stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic. That provided the impetus to move forward.
Soon afterwards, Joel and Friedrich met to discuss the next steps. With renewed energy and a clear vision, they began planning the meetup’s return. Recognising the importance of a suitable venue, Joel approached JENA Digital to ask whether its premises could host the event. Domenique Dölz from JENA Digital responded enthusiastically, and a meeting was quickly arranged to discuss how to proceed.
Laying the groundwork: the kick-off meeting
With the main partners on board, the next crucial step was to create the conditions for a successful revival. Joel and Domenique decided to organise a kick-off meeting in Jena to bring local developers together and discuss the vision for the GameDev & XR Meetup Thüringen. Invitations outlining the meetup’s aims went out to developers in the region.
The invitations emphasised the desire to create a platform covering every aspect of game development, from design and programming to art and storytelling, including the emerging field of XR. The kick-off meeting was scheduled for 10 April 2024 at Post Carré in Jena. Its agenda focused on networking, defining the group’s vision and brainstorming ideas for the first official meetup in June.
The response was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees included representatives of the Spawnpoint Institute in Erfurt, developers from studios such as Stepheight and GooseGirlGames, and Gianluca Pandolfo from Gamesfabrik at Bauhaus-Universität Weimar. The discussions were engaged and insightful, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities of building a community from the ground up.
Overcoming challenges and moving forward
The kick-off meeting was more than a gathering: it was a turning point. Participants’ feedback and enthusiasm provided the motivation to tackle the challenges ahead. One major hurdle was the need to clearly define the meetup’s vision and structure so that it would serve the community’s needs.
Another challenge was reaching and involving a wider audience. Although the initial group was highly motivated, success would depend on attracting participants with varied backgrounds and skills. This would require strategic outreach, effective communication and events appealing to experienced developers and newcomers alike.
Joel wanted to connect his game development activities with organising the meetup, ensuring that community-building efforts remained rooted in practical, real-world projects. Soon afterwards, PlayInsight Studios took over planning the first official meetup, scheduled for 26 June 2024.
Looking ahead: a promising future
With the date confirmed and preparations in full swing, the stage was set for the first official GameDev & XR Meetup Thüringen. Markus Bonk from R42 offered to give a talk and inspire attendees with motivating ideas. Invitations went out widely and anticipation grew. The hard work, planning and collaboration behind the revival would soon bear fruit. The GameDev & XR Meetup Thüringen was returning with a renewed purpose and a clear vision for the future.
Stay tuned to see how the first meetup unfolds, and join us as we continue building and growing this lively community in Thuringia. The GameDev & XR Meetup Thüringen is more than a meeting: it is the start of something special.