Event Overview

What does it mean to succeed in today’s video game industry, and what does the road ahead really look like? Join me, Leo Natanian, for a casual deep dive into gaming’s future, drawing on experiences building RiotPay, launching the cozy MMO Palia, and leading teams at Skillz.

I’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes stories about payment systems, global launches, regulatory shifts, and the challenges of scaling both infrastructure and creative vision. Along the way, I’ll highlight cultural dynamics, platform politics, and predictions for where the next wave of innovation may come from.

Expect bold insights, lively discussion, and the chance to connect with other leaders across the gaming community.

Key Topics

• Good design still wins: Why single-player hits like Elden Ring prove creative vision continues to matter.

• Global games require global awareness: Lessons from compliance, cultural values, and international markets.

• The medium shapes the message: Why VR might fade like 3D TVs, and what storytelling means for the next era of games.

About the Speaker

Leo Natanian is a product and engineering leader with a background spanning AAA games, monetization platforms, and emerging studios. At Riot Games, he served as the technical product lead for RiotPay, the global payments system behind League of Legends, Valorant, and Teamfight Tactics.

He later joined Singularity6, helping launch Palia, a cozy MMO later acquired by Daybreak (EverQuest). At Skillz, he worked on the complexities of monetizing mobile games amid platform restrictions. Based in Los Angeles, Leo remains an active voice in both tech and gaming communities.

Why Attend

This event isn’t just about listening—it’s about connecting. Alongside my talk, you’ll meet other professionals shaping the gaming industry. Whether you’re a developer, designer, marketer, or simply passionate about where games are going, this is a chance to trade ideas and build new connections.