Tencent Games, the world's leading game development, publishing and operation platform, brought its latest technologies, services and solutions in game development and operations to the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2024.

Harnessing the power of machine learning and AI is crucial for game developers and creators to deliver immersive, hyper-realistic gaming experiences. Elvis Liu, AI Team Lead at MoreFun Studios, shared insights on adopting large-scale reinforcement learning in fighting games. For example, Naruto Mobile, the first fighting game that utilizes a reinforcement learning approach to train the agent, can save up to 90% of the time and resources needed for the training process. In addition, Elvis participated in the machine learning panel discussion along with other prominent experts in the industry to address questions about the future of machine learning in gaming.

Experts from TiMi Studio Group discussed its self-developed character animation system, MotorNerve, and how it achieves high-quality, low-consumption locomotion control and transition animation generation by combining the advantages of Motion Matching and Learned Motion Matching, as well as leveraging Motion In Betweening technology.

To provide developers with the latest game AI tools, Tencent AI Lab launched its self-developed GiiNEX Game AI Engine during the GDC event. This game AI engine incorporates generative AI technology, which enables professional developers to create realistic and diverse 3Dcity scenes. Furthermore, it offers gamers the opportunity to design new levels and enhance user-generated content. GiiNEX supports 2D images, animations, 3D scenes, narratives, and dialogue generation, and also utilizes decision-making AI for game development testing, simulated gameplay, and scenarios to speed up game innovations.

Advanced Solutions Empower Game Development

The development team of Delta Force: Hawk Ops has shared their solutions for cross-platform development, including the creation of art pipelines and tools for high-precision end-game graphics while ensuring mobile performance. They have also implemented a unified production pipeline and cross-platform runtime support to achieve scalability of graphics effects and performance, as well as production efficiency in cross-platform development.

Ray tracing technology has become prevalent in PC and console 3A games, yet it has not been widely adopted in mobile platforms due to performance and algorithm constraints. However, experts from MoreFun Studios unveiled the technical details of its exciting title Arena Breakout, showcasing the successful application of ray tracing technology on mobile devices and the promise of a high-quality, hyper-realistic experience for players. Additionally, the team has addressed the conflict between graphic quality and frame rate by introducing a self-developed frame-prediction technology to boost frame rate and reduce battery consumption without compromising the graphic quality.

The R&D Efficiency and Capability engine team shared integrating SmartGI, a high-performance global illumination solution for mobile, and NanoMesh, an adaptive and seamless LOD technology, into a new real-time rendering pipeline. This integration aims to create a one-stop development process with minimal asset preprocessing, pixel-level geometry rendering, and a fully real-time cross-platform customizable game engine. The Game UX research team, offered a look into the A-G-E Model plus their insights into improving the onboarding process for F2P players.

Tencent Games reaffirmed its commitment to advancing game security, quality assurance, and studio efficiency, by showcasing its cutting-edge in-house products at the GDC booth. Anti-Cheat Expert(ACE), offers a comprehensive suite of game security solutions for mobile and PC games such as hardening solutions, anti-cheat measures, in-game economy risk and content moderation, as well as digital rights management, to assist game developers in addressing diverse security challenges and providing a fair and competitive gaming environment for players. WeTest Global, the Quality Assurance Platform, ensures the highest quality standards for game and application development with a range of QA solutions including compatibility testing, functional testing, automated testing, remote device access, and performance testing for mobile, PC and console games. What's more, the Cloud-Enabled Studio solutions empower studios to transcend geographical and physical constraints, enabling seamless work from any location, thereby enhancing productivity, streamlining art production, and ensuring the security of assets.

Connecting with Community and Talent

Alongside GDC, the PocketGamer Connects San Francisco event featured Level Infinite VP and head of business operations and strategy, Yong-yi Zhu. He joined a panel discussion with Qi Lu, CEO and founder of Supernova Games, and Stuart Dinsey, chairman of Curve games, where the three discussed the role of global publishers in bridging Asia and the West.

Zhu said Tencent Games has been focused on listening and testing content with local gaming communities across the globe, then relaying what players want back to studios. "Tencent's superpower has been in working with mobile developers, and being very data-driven in decision making, he said. "It's about identifying what really resonates with people in their local communities, and being very much tailor-made."

At this year's GDC, Tencent Games introduced a dedicated "Career Space" at its booth, designed to foster networking and connect with potential candidates for open roles across game development. The space featured opportunities from internships to senior positions and offered insight into Tencent's studios and its latest projects. Additionally, the GWB Game Awards 2024 was announced, featuring gold, silver, and bronze awards for the best game, along with eight distinct category awards, offering a total prize pool of $56,000 USD. Those interested may submit entries before July 15 on the official website.

Launched in 1988, GDC has been the go-to event for the gaming community for the latest trends and insights. Tencent Games' active involvement in GDC highlights its commitment to advancing the industry through innovation. If you couldn't attend, we invite you to follow our social media accounts and visit the GDC Vault for more information.

Evolv AI just announced the introduction of its innovative AI-Driven design thinking and insights and platform, marking a new era in digital interaction optimization. Moving beyond the confines of traditional A/B or CRO testing, this groundbreaking platform focuses on harnessing the full potential of automated UX recommendations, predictive analytics, and comprehensive knowledge management and reapplication. It's designed to equip businesses with the tools for knowledge retention, reapplication, and sharing experimentation insights at an unprecedented scale, all facilitated by advanced AI and ML technologies.

Transforming Business Through Knowledge-Driven Decisions: Evolv AI's latest offering shifts the focus from traditional experimentation tactics to a more holistic approach that emphasizes the strategic application of accumulated knowledge. This approach recognizes that time equates to revenue and that the true value of experimentation lies in the ability to leverage AI and ML for retaining, reapplying, and sharing knowledge across the business.

Key Offerings of the AI-Driven Insights and Knowledge Platform:

Predictive Analytics and Recommendations: Dive deep into consumer behavior predictions and tailored recommendations, driven by AI's nuanced understanding of vast data sets.

Comprehensive Knowledge Management: Seamlessly manage, retain, and share critical business knowledge, empowering teams to make informed decisions and foster innovation faster and with more precision.

Scaled Reapplication: Utilize AI/ML to apply personalized strategies across various contexts and channels, ensuring consistent growth and improvement.

Beyond Experimentation: While A/B testing remains a valuable tool, Evolv AI emphasizes generating actionable insights and strategies that directly impact business success.

Evolv AI's platform is ideal for businesses looking for dynamic ways to navigate the complexities of digital landscapes. It appeals to those invested in creating enriched customer experiences, fostering knowledge-driven cultures, and driving growth through intelligent data application.

Evolv AI is at the forefront of AI-powered digital experience optimization, enabling businesses across the globe to accelerate growth by making data-informed decisions quickly and efficiently. Our platform emulates the design thinking process, helping organizations tap into their accumulated experimentation knowledge and transform anecdotal evidence into actionable data, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and increase revenue. For more information about Evolv AI, visit evolv.ai.

Luckie & Company announces the acquisition of Marbury Creative Group (MCG), an Atlanta-based creative marketing agency recognized for its work in the pharmaceutical, food & beverage, and hospitality industries.

The acquisition brings Luckie expansion in critical areas, including content, search engine marketing, media strategy & planning, plus a seasoned team focused on creative, strategy, and media. With no client or staff redundancies from the acquisition, MCG's team of 18 will seamlessly integrate into Luckie's Atlanta office.

"We are adding talented resources and expanding our capabilities to not only serve our clients better but also align the agency for future growth," said John Gardner, president and CEO of Luckie. "The pace of change in marketing is so accelerated, we need an experienced and cohesive team to enhance our ability to deliver smart solutions that have real impact. Among other benefits, this partnership gives us the immediate capacity to deliver more personalized brand content at a faster pace to meet market demand."

Rob Marbury, president and founder of MCG, is an award-winning creative director who has owned two Atlanta advertising agencies in his 30-year career. He started MCG in 2010 and the agency has earned a reputation for delivering memorable creative solutions in a strategic and agile way. Their clients are a mix of category leaders including Spice World, Inc., Alimera Sciences, and Owens & Minor.

Marbury will be an Executive Creative Director at Luckie. Marbury's partner, Shelly Hoffman, will assume the role of Senior Vice President, Client Solutions & Development, spearheading Luckie's business development and marketing efforts.

"I have admired Luckie throughout my career; we share the same sensibilities as independent, growth-oriented agencies," said Marbury. "I'm excited to join forces so we can offer existing MCG clients greater access to analytics and many specialized services, and, equally important, to provide our team with new career opportunities."

Luckie's last acquisition was in 2011 when the company merged with digital agency Integrative Logic, shifting Luckie's focus from traditional advertising services to more sophisticated data-led marketing solutions. Since that merger, Luckie has increased topline revenue by more than 40% and diversified its client portfolio, most notably in healthcare and financial services.

About Luckie: Luckie is a creative, data-driven agency that builds brands and brand experiences to solve real business problems and achieve results luck can't explain. It is one of the top privately held marketing firms in the Southeast. Luckie works with companies in healthcare, travel & tourism, consumer packaged goods, and financial services including Regions Bank, RaceTrac, GlaxoSmithKline, and Panama City Beach. The company has offices in Birmingham, Atlanta, and Raleigh.

About MCG : Marbury Creative Group is a brand-building marketing agency that drives business growth through the fusion of strategy + creativity. The agency's mission to Tell It Better! (if necessary, use words)®, inspires audiences to action with award-winning creative campaigns.

Sequoia Financial Group, LLC (Sequoia), a leading SEC-registered wealth manager with more than $18 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2024, today announced it has acquired AltruVista, LLC (AltruVista), an SEC-registered investment advisor that provides independent and holistic financial planning and asset management services to high-net-worth clients.

Founded in 1991, Akron, Ohio-based Sequoia provides asset management and wealth planning services across the wealth continuum—from individuals to family offices—with locations throughout the United States.

Houston-based AltruVista has more than $310 million in assets under management as of March 31, 2024. Founded in 2009 by CEO Ali Nasser, AltruVista provides comprehensive financial planning and wealth integration services to high-net-worth business owners and families. Nasser will become a shareholder of Sequoia, continue to support clients, and collaborate with Sequoia advisors on his proprietary Wealth Integration System for Entrepreneurs™.

"AltruVista specializes in crafting customized planning solutions for entrepreneurs and business owners," said Tom Haught, founder and CEO of Sequoia. "The foundation for this partnership is based on a long-standing relationship with Ali, mutual respect, and a shared vision for providing unparalleled client support to fuel the success of business owners."

"I have known and admired Sequoia for over a decade. Sequoia's 'Built for You' client philosophy matches our vision and values, and our new partnership will bring significant benefits to our clients and team," Nasser said. "Our intellectual property for entrepreneurs, combined with Sequoia's infrastructure and investment platform, creates a premier offering for business owners across the U.S."

With the new Houston location, Sequoia now has 14 offices in eight states. Sequoia has grown organically and through acquisitions to expand its services and geographic footprint. In 2023, Sequoia announced four acquisitions, including Zeke Capital Advisors, Cirrus Wealth Management, Affinia Financial Group, and M Capital Advisors.

Sequoia was named by Barron's as one of the top RIA firms in the U.S. in 2023 for the fifth consecutive year. The ranking is based on assets managed, technology spending, staff diversity, succession planning, and other metrics.

Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP served as legal advisor to Sequoia. Boyar Miller, LLP served as legal advisor to AltruVista. Republic Capital Group served as financial advisor to AltruVista.

Founded in 2009, AltruVista helps business owners navigate the intersection of life planning and wealth planning. AltruVista guides entrepreneurs in crystallizing goals, aligning plans, and integrating professional advisor teams. Its founder, Ali Nasser, is author of The Business Owners Dilemma, an Amazon best seller. For more information, visit altruvistawealth.com.

Sequoia Financial Group, LLC, founded in 1991, takes a client-centered approach to providing wealth management services, including asset management, estate and retirement planning, fiduciary consulting, and family office. Sequoia builds and maintains strong relationships that emphasize long-term planning to help clients reach their financial and life goals. Sequoia was named by Barron's as one of the top RIA firms in the U.S. in 2023 for the fifth consecutive year. Sequoia had more than $18 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2024. For more information, visit sequoia-financial.com.

Schaefer, a leader in market research and digital marketing solutions, just announced its recognition as one of the top 100 fastest-growing companies on Clutch, the leading global marketplace of B2B service providers. Schaefer ranked 26th based on revenue growth from 2022 to 2023. This is the fourth consecutive year that Clutch has recognized its top 100 companies.

"To be recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies on Clutch is incredibly special. Our success reflects our commitment to excellence and building lasting client relationships for sustainable growth. We wouldn't have been able to accomplish this without our incredible team and clients." - Sidnee Schaefer, CEO

Schaefer submitted verified financial data to be considered for The Clutch 100, and was ranked as #26 on the Clutch 100 list of the fastest-growing companies based on its growth rate of 105.6% from 2022 to 2023. This is the first year Schaefer has been recognized on the Clutch 100, and is the top provider in the market research category.

"At Schaefer, we don't just follow trends; we anticipate them. Our deeply strategic consulting approach is tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities within the Consumer Goods sector, enabling our clients to not just navigate the market, but to lead it. This accolade underscores our dedication to driving growth and success for our clients through innovative and forward-thinking strategies. Together, we're not just growing; we're shaping the future." - Seth Waite, CRO at Schaefer

Clutch empowers better business decisions as the leading global marketplace of B2B service providers. More than 1 million business leaders start at Clutch each month to read in-depth client interviews and discover trusted agency partners to meet their business needs. Clutch has been honored for the past 6 consecutive years as an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company and by the Washington Business Journal as one of the 50 fastest-growing private companies in the DC metro area for 2023.

Schaefer is a market research and marketing leader. Known for its consistent results, the company has doubled in size annually for three years and maintains a 98% client retention rate. With a special emphasis on brands such as food and beverage, home goods, and personal care, Schaefer excels in blending marketing strategies with market research to exceed revenue goals. For more information about Schaefer, visit Schaefer.co.

XTPL is a leader in providing nanoprinting capabilities who are shaping global nanofuture used in the electronics industry like smartwatches and automotive displays. XTPL will deliver the Delta Printing System (DPS) device to a new client based in California in Q2 2024. The XTPL technology will be used in work on packaging for integrated microelectronic devices. This is the fourth sale of a DPS in the United States – previous buyer being, among others, a Nasdaq-listed firm, one of the Big Five companies from the ICT sector. XTPL's broader activity in the USA is supported by Urs Berger, Managing Director for North America. Hired early in 2024, Urs previously held key management roles at Optomec for 16 years. In accordance with XTPL's strategy for 2023–2026, in H2 2024, Company is going to set up its first sales, demonstration and support center for North America customers, which will be located in Boston.

"We are delighted to have onboarded an expert whose extensive experience is vital to our business – Urs Berger is responsible for developing and implementing XTPL's sales strategy in the North American market, where we will significantly strengthen our presence in 2024. In H2, we plan to open a Demo Center in Boston to showcase XTPL's technological solutions: modules for industrial implementation, DPS devices and High-Performance Materials. This initiative is part of our steadily progressed 2023–2026 Strategy, which is expected to increase the sales of products and services 10 times to PLN 100 million by the end of 2026" says Filip Granek, CEO of XTPL.

Urs Berger has over 20 years of international business experience, including 16 years in the additive manufacturing and printed electronics sector, he completed several hundred of system sales transaction during the course of his career. Before joining XTPL, he held key management roles at Optomec in the United States and Switzerland with a responsibility for Business Development. He holds an MBA in international business from the University of San Diego.

"Over a short time, XTPL has built a technology with a number of competitive advantages, and successfully started the initial phases of its global commercialization. I decided to take up the role of Managing Director for North America encouraged by XTPL's strong reputation in the printed electronics industry and the prospect of building the Company's extensive exposure in the United States – the largest and most important market for additive technologies" says Urs Berger, XTPL's Managing Director for North America.

Pyramid Global Hospitality have just announce a strong start to 2024 with the expansion of its U.S. portfolio with the addition of iconic properties from Florida to Hawaii, claiming notable industry awards, stunning new developments preparing to open, and 11+ consecutive quarters of market share growth.

Pyramid Global Hospitality – the powerhouse hospitality company behind inspired collections like Benchmark Pyramid Luxury & Lifestyle and Hamilton Pyramid Europe welcomes nine properties to its U.S. portfolio. In Florida, property additions include Naples Grande Beach Resort, Saddlebrook Resort Tampa and Hotel Flor, a Tapestry Collection Hotel by Hilton. Iconic boutique resorts to join the collection include Black Rock Mountain Resort in Utah, Wayfinder Waikiki in Hawaii, and Wayfinder Bishop Creekside Inn in California. Pyramid Global has also assumed management of Rand Tower Hotel, a Tribute Hotel in Minnesota, Marriott San Antonio Northwest in Texas and The Crotonville Conference Center in New York. These additions mark an important milestone for the company as it expands its footprint in these key travel markets.

"2024 is off to a momentous start as we continue toward our overall goal of being the Manager of Choice in our industry," said Warren Fields, CEO of Pyramid Global Hospitality. "We have a robust and growing pipeline ahead for the year as owners increasingly recognize Pyramid's ability to drive results through great people and industry-leading tools."

In conjunction with the company's continued growth, Pyramid Global has also seen 11+ consecutive quarters of market share growth coinciding with the launch of its data analytics platform, NEO. Serving as a one-stop shop consolidating access to targeted metrics, trends and insights giving our properties a competitive advantage, NEO has been a game-changer for the company allowing for more informed data-driven decisions and amplifying a culture of performance excellence.

In addition to this remarkable growth, Pyramid Global Hospitality has also been recently recognized with notable industry awards, including being named by Hotel Business Magazine as a Top 3 Hotel Management Company in the industry, induction into Marriott's Partnership Circle Hall of Fame, and an inaugural winner of the Marriott Topline Activator award. These honors reflect the company's commitment to delivering exceptional service and unparalleled hospitality experiences.

"We are incredibly proud of the successes we have achieved thus far," said Fields. "These achievements are a testament to the strength and stability of our best-in-class leadership team and property associates. We look forward to exceeding the expectations of our guests, satisfying our owner partners and continuing our strong momentum throughout the year."

Pyramid Global Hospitality, a leading third-party hospitality management company, is the powerhouse brand behind an inspired collection of forward-thinking professionals providing powerful solutions to some of the world's best hotels and resorts. Formed by the 2021 merger of three hotel and resort management companies, the organization's global portfolio now spans more than 240 properties across the U.S., Caribbean and Europe, with offices in Boston; The Woodlands, Texas; Cincinnati and London. For more information, visit PyramidGlobal.com.

EarthLink is a leading internet service provider renowned for delivering unparalleled access across the U.S., just announced the acquisition of BroadAspect's fiber-optic and fixed wireless network. This acquisition bolsters EarthLink's network on the East Coast, expanding the scope and quality of business services and product offerings across the nation.

"We're thrilled to welcome BroadAspect to the EarthLink family," said Glenn Goad, CEO of EarthLink. "Adding BroadAspect's network as our fourth acquisition of a fixed wireless company in the last year signifies EarthLink's strategy of expansion. Together with One Ring Networks, Telegia, and QX.net, our broad network allows us to deliver high-speed internet across the nation, providing businesses with our dedicated internet services."

BroadAspect, a Virginia-based connectivity provider with more than two decades of experience, joins EarthLink in this strategic endeavor. The partnership highlights BroadAspect and EarthLink's continued standard for performance, reliability, and internet redundancy.

"We see a partner in EarthLink, one with a reputation for successful mergers in the business connectivity space and a high standard for customer service," Chris Chamberlain, founder and CEO of BroadAspect, said. "EarthLink's nationwide reach, engineering, and support will bring our customers' experiences to the next level as they continue to develop their business partnerships."

The incorporation of BroadAspect's network is projected to amplify EarthLink's fiber-optic and fixed wireless serviceability across the East Coast network.

"The ongoing expansion of EarthLink Business heralds an exciting era both for us and our small business clientele," said John Jenkins, President of EarthLink Business Services. "This growing network enables us to extend the EarthLink promise of exceptional service and commitment into new markets."

This acquisition is effective immediately, with BroadAspect set to continue its operations as a managed IT and cybersecurity firm while EarthLink takes the helm of its fiber-optic and fixed wireless business and clientele.

"Our vision at EarthLink – to create a broader network that reaches every corner of the nation – is becoming a reality," said Goad. "By embracing opportunities like this, we're not just expanding; we're evolving to meet and exceed the digital needs of businesses and residents alike."

EarthLink is a top U.S. internet service provider delivering wired and wireless access to more homes and small businesses than any other ISP. EarthLink delivers the right technology at the right price to create the right connection for customers. Consumers voted EarthLink the number one ISP in America in 2020 for three years running. An independent company headquartered in Atlanta, EarthLink was certified as a Great Place to Work since 2020. To learn more, visit earthlink.net.