Computer Gaming and Simulation Program Resources

Gaming Websites and Career Resources

• Facebook Group for MC's IT Studentsnew window
• Entertainment Consumers Association new window
• Gamasutranew window
• Game Career Guidenew window
• Games for Changenew window
• Innovate Baltimorenew window
• International Game Developers Associationnew window - Baltimore and DC/VA chapters
• AbleGamersnew window - making games more accessible
• Persuasive Gamesnew window

About the Gaming Industry

Internet game and simulation technology is increasingly being used for education, training, advocacy and advertising. Role-playing simulations and other specialized "games" are used to train students, educators, businesses, government officials, and soldiers.

For example, the federal government spends millions of dollars on game technology for military and homeland security applications. Firefighters and police use game technology to practice dealing with high-intensity emergency response situations. Medical students train on interactive 3D simulations instead of live patients. Pilots fly in aircraft simulators before flying real planes. News media recreate current events using game and simulation technology. And the advertising industry makes complex 3D virtual experiences to sell products and services. MC students are getting on the job experience creating serious gamesnew window. 

According to the ESA, "Video games are also a strong engine for economic growth. In 2013, the industry sold 160 million games and generated more than $21 billion in revenue, $7.2 billion of which came from purchases of digital full games and add-on content, mobile apps, subscriptions, and social network gaming. Computer and video game companies directly and indirectly employ more than 140,000 people in 36 states." For more facts and figures on the multi-billion dollar Entertainment Gaming Industry, please see the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) website. 

Maryland is considered by some to be the East Coast hub of the gaming and simulation industry. According to Maryland Interactive Technologies, "Already Maryland boasts the largest cluster of entertainment software companies on the East Coast."  An industry survey by Game Developer Magazine found that Maryland is the number one East Coast state for game developers. 

Please note that the lists below may be out of date as new game-related companies join the industry.