First speakers revealed for GI.biz track at Nordic Game

The Nordic Game Conference is fast approaching, and with it the first ever GamesIndustry.biz speaker track. We'll be bringing the best speakers from the UK industry and abroad to the Malmo event to run a full three-day speaker program from May 17-19. We've got plenty of surprises left in store, but today we're proud to announce the first members of our line-up.

It's an eclectic mix, combining experience, innovation and unique perspectives from across the spectrum of the industry, covering AAA console development, indie mobile teams and everything in between. We'll be revealing more of our 15 sessions over the next fortnight or so, but for now, read on to learn more about who'll be leading the charge.

As well as an extensive programme of speakers, panels and technical sessions, Nordic Game will feature the discovery contest, the indie showcase, several exhibitors, plenty of parties and the meeting system, powered by MeetToMatch. If you've not already, book your tickets here.

Philip & Andrew Oliver, Radiant Worlds

Session: The More Things Change, the More They Stay the Same: Lessons

Philip & Andrew Oliver began their careers in their shared teenage bedroom over three decades ago. Since then, they have grown internationally successful businesses, created award-winning game franchises, and worked with some of the largest entertainment brands in the world. They've seen huge changes in the industry over this time, and have ridden the peaks and troughs by constantly evolving and adapting to the shifting business landscape. Many think that the games industry now is a unique beast, but the Oliver twins will use their experiences to show that many of the lessons they have learnt over the last 30+ years are every bit as applicable to growing studios in 2017. The more things seem to change, the more they really stay the same.

Natalie Griffith, Press Space

Session: Sanity vs. Vanity: Maximising Your Social Media Effectiveness

Natalie founded Press Space to provide a unique, bespoke marketing, branding and PR service for games, technology and entertainment companies. Bringing her wealth of corporate experience to bear, she offers a wide portfolio of consultancy and training services, and is an active public speaker. She is also a proud and active STEM & Video Game Ambassador, as well as an ambassador for disabled gamer charity SpecialEffect.

Jack Attridge, Flavourworks

Session: Designing a Dream: Stubbornly Starting a Start-up from Scratch

Previously an audio designer for companies such as EA, Rebellion and Mind Candy, Jack was later recruited as a protégé game designer to industry legend Peter Molyneux at 22cans, before starting Flavourworks in 2015. His games have been played by millions, and he is associated with various awards and accolades. Flavourworks' first unannounced project is generating huge buzz and has attracted investment from some of the industry's biggest names.

Ralph Fulton, Playground Games

Session: How to Create a Great First Impression

Ralph is co-founder and creative director of Playground Games, the independent UK studio behind the "Forza Horizon" series. With 20 years of experience in the games industry, Ralph has been making racing games for more than a decade, with credits including "GRID", "DiRT2", "F1 2010" and the award-winning "Forza Horizon" series. Last year, "Forza Horizon 3" was released to universal acclaim and huge commercial success.

Dave Ranyard, Dream Reality Interactive

Session: Immersive Storytelling: What Makes and Breaks Engagement

Dr. Dave is a self-confessed virtual reality pioneer and the CEO of independent VR studio Dream Reality Interactive. Dave was formerly director of Sony's London Studio, where he oversaw the Japanese publisher's critically-acclaimed venture into the world of VR on PlayStation. Notable games include "Ocean Descent", "Dangerball" and "London Heist", which has been exhibited around the world at key games industry events. Dave is also an active member of the game development industry, holding positions on the BAFTA Games Committee, GDC (San Francisco), VR Developers Conference and the VR World Congress.