Major gaming conventions such as TGS and E3 may be presented as trade shows, but they are actually more focused on getting messages out to a mass consumer audience. Enter Game Developer Conference in San Fran. This show, more than any other, is truly concerned with developers and publishers successfully networking with one another. For at least one member of the industry, the 2011 show is already a rousing success in that regard.
After giving a speech at GDC today, Rovio Games’ Peter Vesterbacka made himself available for questioning from the audience. Mr. Vesterbacka was likely expecting to field numerous inquiries from aspiring developers about how Angry Birds was able to become such a monumental success. While that is pure speculation on my part, I honestly doubt he was expecting to get into the following conversation with Mr. Erin Catto (whom Vesterbacka was previously unacquainted with).
“Er, um, yes hello. I was wondering, what physics engine do you use in Angry Birds?” Catto asked.
Vesterbacka, seemingly aggravated by the question, fired back “Box 2D.”
“Is there any chance you could credit it on Angry Birds?”
Those who were on hand for the exchange, reported that his question was followed by an awkward silence.
“Sure,” Vesterbacka reasoned.
“Great,” Catto replied, “I’m the creator of the Box 2D physics engine.”
“I have to talk to you after this,” Vesterbacka said.
The source of this story claimed that audience emitted a roaring applause in response to Catto claiming Box 2D as his own work. If so, it was well deserved. Complaining about excruciatingly long staff credits in games is somewhat in vogue right now, but credit should be given where it is due. Game engine developers work as hard as anyone else in the industry to perfect their product. As such, it is heart warming news that Mr. Catto will be getting the recognition he deserves.
Images courtesy of Rovio Games and Develop-online.
Original source: Develop-Online
