Just got news of an event being organized by ELSPA in London for November, titled “Media meets Gaming“. On first pass, it sounds like standard media/PR nonsense. But, I do believe there is something more important/deeper going on here…

A few weeks back, I was impressed with commentary made by Gerhard Florin (EA’s senior VP and MD European publishing) on the need to educate the masses. In short, it was a reaction to all the negative press over games stemming from the Manhunt murder craze at the time. He rightfully noted that those ignorant of games are first to condemn them. A strong case of ignorance breeding contempt.

Well, is it no surprise then that Florin is doing the keynote speech of the day? Kudos to ELSPA for pulling this one together and making it sound all very innocent…

A more informed mass media could help avoid some of the overly sensational (and flawed) stories we are all too familiar with:

Anyway, nice to see something being done to build bridges with, and educate, the mass media. Bonus link: “Reality Bytes: Eight Myths About Video Games Debunked” by Dr. Henry Jenkins.