CGDC 2026 + ReachConf

Written By CGDC

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news: CGDC is partnering with Reach Conference for 2026! We’re coming together to host a joint conference that brings the very best of gaming, tech, and faith-driven creativity into one incredible event.

November 5–7, 2026
Orlando, Florida

This collaboration reflects the heart of both organizations: to build and inspire a thriving community of Christians impacting gaming and digital culture. By coming together, we’re creating a bigger and more impactful space for developers, creators, pastors, and innovators to connect, grow, and bring Jesus to new frontiers.

Tickets Are Available Now!

Tickets are now live and selling fast — with 500 tickets already sold to date. We expect to sell out soon, so don’t wait to register!

👉 Register Now on Eventbrite for the Conference:

Click Here to Register with the special CGDC Code!!

What to Expect

  • Inspiring Speakers:

  • The schedule is now available on the Reach Conference website. Our CGDC specific speakers are listed below:

    • Tom Vasel: at 3:00–4:00 PM — November 5

    • Tobias Heussner: “Archetypes, Flow, and Paper Maps - Level Design Approaches for Video Games and Tabletop" at 10:00–11:00 AM — November 6

    • Justin Williams: “Called to the Controller: Faith, Work, and Finding Your Place in the Gaming Industry” at 11:00 AM–12:00 PM — November 6

    • Nathan Blair: “G4L - Charity is your Cheat Code” at 1:00–2:00 PM — November 6

    • Jalyssa Eliason: 3:00–4:00 PM — November 6

    • Brock Henderson: “AI Game Dev Panel” 4:00–5:00 PM — November 7

    • Philip Conrod: “AI Game Dev Panel” 4:00–5:00 PM — November 7

    • Michael Herrera: “Plea for Innovation” - TBD

    • Mike Madden:‍ ‍”Designing Like a Shepherd: Guiding players with intention” TBD

  • Speaker Bios:

    • Tom Vasel is one of the most influential voices in the modern tabletop gaming industry. As the founder, president, and chief reviewer of The Dice Tower, he has spent more than two decades helping millions of gamers discover, understand, and enjoy board games through trusted reviews, podcasts, videos, and live events. Since launching The Dice Tower in 2003, Tom has reviewed thousands of board games and built one of the world’s largest and most respected tabletop gaming media platforms. His YouTube channel, podcasts, and conventions—including Dice Tower East, Dice Tower West, and the Dice Tower Cruise—have helped shape the modern board gaming community while introducing countless players to new games and designers. Beyond reviewing games, Tom is passionate about fostering community through tabletop gaming. He is also the founder of the Jack Vasel Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to members of the gaming community facing hardship. A former missionary and pastor, Tom continues to serve his local church while leading The Dice Tower full time. At ReachConf, Tom will share how tabletop games create meaningful relationships, strengthen communities, and continue to be one of the fastest-growing segments of the gaming industry. Whether you’re a lifelong board gamer, content creator, or aspiring designer, you’ll gain valuable insight from one of the hobby’s most respected leaders..

    • Tobias Heussner is a Principal Game Content/Narrative Designer and Producer. He has been working in the game industry for over 25 years and has successfully developed and published more than 20 titles along with his teams, including the award-winning AAA RPG Drakensang, the Action-RPG Drakensang Online, Fortnite, and NBA Playgrounds. He has worked in various design roles and has led teams as both a designer and a producer. In 2015, he published the Game Narrative Toolbox with FocalPress, co-authored by Ann Lemay, Toiya K. Finley, and Jennifer Hepler. In 2019, he published the sequel to the Game Narrative Toolbox, called The Advanced Game Narrative Toolbox, with CRC Press. An updated, second edition of the Game Narrative Toolbox was published in 2024, and a second edition of The Advanced Game Narrative Toolbox will be published in August 2026. He is currently working as a Lead Level Designer. His personal website and CV are available at http://www.theussner.com.

    • Justin Williams is a Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition, speaker, and community leader with more than a decade of experience recruiting top talent across the video game and technology industries. Throughout his career, he has helped build teams for companies including Microsoft, Blizzard Entertainment, Riot Games, and Games for Love, supporting titles such as Overwatch 2 and Diablo IV. Today, he leads talent acquisition efforts for Ad Hoc, helping build technology teams that support critical government services. Beyond recruiting, Justin is passionate about investing in people. He serves as a leader within Amir Satvat's Games Community, where he mentors aspiring and experienced game developers, supports career development initiatives, and helps create opportunities for thousands of professionals navigating the gaming industry. As a follower of Christ, Justin is passionate about encouraging others to pursue excellence without compromising their faith. Whether speaking on careers, leadership, or community, his mission is to help people discover purpose, build meaningful relationships, and leave a lasting impact wherever God calls them.

    • Nathan “Jetti” Blair is an award‑winning entrepreneur, philanthropist, and innovator across tech and entertainment. Founder & CEO of several endevors including Games for Love, a 501(c)(3) building long‑term support for kids and families in hospitals. Under his leadership, Games for Love holds Charity Navigator’s Four‑Star rating and recognition as the #1 organization in the children‑and‑gaming category, Top 14 in the world for AI In Healthcare, and the current reigning champion of Battle for Charity. A mentor to founders and a former independent recording artist turned builder, Nathan has consulted with Microsoft/Xbox, Nintendo, and Glassdoor; he is a Top 100 Healthcare Visionary and a two‑time challenge‑coin‑awarded civilian. “I am an advocate, fighting to the death for these kids, as they are fighting for their lives.”

    • Jalyssa Eliason is a Creative Producer and brand strategist with more than a decade of experience creating marketing campaigns and creative experiences for some of the world’s most recognizable entertainment and gaming brands. Throughout her career, she has contributed to projects for Sony Interactive Entertainment, Riot Games, Twitch, Netflix, IGN, and other industry-leading companies, helping shape how millions of players discover and engage with games. Passionate about the intersection of creativity, storytelling, and strategy, Jalyssa specializes in building brands that resonate with audiences long before a product launches. Her experience spans creative production, project management, campaign development, and cross-functional leadership across AAA gaming and entertainment. Outside of her professional work, Jalyssa is deeply invested in strengthening the Christian gaming community. She co-founded GameTalk Unlocked to foster meaningful connections among game industry professionals and recently launched the Aeternus Games Summit, bringing together Christian leaders working throughout the gaming industry for worship, fellowship, and conversations about faith, excellence, and innovation. At ReachConf, Jalyssa will share practical insights into branding, marketing, and creative strategy—equipping creators, streamers, and game developers with the tools needed to build brands that stand out and communicate with purpose.

    • Brock Henderson believes the world is a better place when we play together. As co-founder and CTO of PxlPug, he is excited to share that message with the world. PxlPug’s purpose is to create a healthy community where individuals are valued for who they are and are encouraged to grow into who they were created to be. The studio does this by crafting games that bring people together. Brock is a designer, developer, and entrepreneur. He has a passion for creating video games and a proven track record with over 25 shipped titles and 3+ million downloads. Before entering the games industry, he co-founded the design firm Paper Tower where he served as its creative director for over a decade. In that time, he designed interactive experiences for clients like Coca-Cola, Motorola, and Harvard. Brock currently resides in a small town in Iowa with his beautiful wife Vanessa and their six children—where he loves to read and blog.

    • Philip Conrod was one of the first pioneers in the Christian Game Industry.   After graduating from WarrenTech in 1982, Philip co-founded BibleByte with his parents. You can watch his CGDC 2016 keynote presentation on the “First 20 Years of Christian Game Development” on our CGDC YouTube channel here.   Since then, Philip has published dozens of apps and games over the past 40+ years.  He has also  authored, co-authored and edited over two dozen technology related textbooks for the academic market which can be found in online bookstores like Amazon, Walmart and ChristianBook.com. Philip’s applications,  games and textbook tutorials have been downloaded and used by over 1 million people. Philip has also served in various Information Technology leadership roles for Fortune 500 companies like Sundstrand Aerospace, Safeco Insurance, FamilyLife – CRU, Kenworth Truck Company, Paccar, and SVP/CIO for Darigold.  Philip currently serves as the CEO of Kidware Software and BibleByte Books & Games.  Philip also serves as an adjunct professor at Northwest University  teaching Video Game Design & Development courses.

    • Michael Alan Herrera was born in Anaheim, California next to Disneyland, which he always maintains was a divine signal that he belonged in the entertainment industry. His interest in video games began during his childhood, just as video games were emerging as a popular new form of entertainment; his first video game was the original King’s Quest by Sierra Online. Prior to entering the game industry, Michael obtained a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies at the University of Maine Fort Kent and spent five years in management and supervision while working for the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy, a non-profit conservation organization located off the coast of Southern California. This experience helped him obtain the management and people skills necessary for video game production. In 2011, Michael obtained a second Bachelor degree (Bachelor of Art) in Game Design at Collins College and, in 2012, moved to the Seattle area to pursue working in the game industry. A few years later, he discovered the Christian Game Developers Conference and became involved in building and managing the community online along with assisting in the organization of the conference in Portland, Oregon. In 2015 - 2018, Michael presented the annual “Year in Review” which is an account of new, announced, and continuing projects in the Christian Game space. Michael has served on the Board at various times and assists with Conference organizing. He is also the co-owner of Clopas LLC, a video game studio, and On His Shoulders Media, a non-profit digital game ministry. Michael lives in Wisconsin with his wife and two corgis. He’s a strong advocate for innovation which he looks forward to discussing in his talk.

    • Mike Madden brings over 20 years of AAA game industry experience to the stage, having shaped some of gaming's most iconic worlds during his time at Treyarch and Infinity Ward on titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and Black Ops. Across seven AAA titles and numerous independent projects, Mike has built a career on crafting immersive single-player, multiplayer, and open-world levels, with an expert eye for flow, pacing, and player engagement. As Lead Level Designer at Templar Media, Mike is now channeling two decades of craft into uncharted territory: building expansive worlds that bridge the gap between Biblical accuracy and compelling gameplay. It's a challenge that pushes level design into new creative and narrative territory, and Mike will bring the lessons learned from AAA shooters to bear on it. Attendees can expect a talk grounded in real production experience, practical, candid, and full of insight for anyone looking to level up their own design career.

Whether you’re a long-time CGDC attendee, a member of the Reach Conf community, or someone passionate about the intersection of faith and digital culture, this is the year to attend.

Let’s make history together in Orlando’s Winter Park Suburb. We can’t wait to see you there!

CGDC/Reach 2026 FAQ

Registration

How do I register?

Registration is completed online through the link below Your spot is confirmed once payment has been received.

https://cgdc-go.battles.workers.dev/reachconf

What does my registration include?

Your registration includes:

● Access to all scheduled sessions and panels

● Keynote presentations

● Workshops (unless otherwise noted)

● Networking events

● Vendor hall access

● Activities

● Conference materials

Please review your ticket description for specific inclusions.

Can I transfer my ticket?

NO

Are meals provided?

Extra Meal tickets will be available for purchase at CGDC.org Cost is $160 and includes all lunch and dinner meals.

What is your refund policy?

NO refunds will be given. This is a FINAL Sale

Travel & Accommodations

Where is the conference located?

The conference will be held at:

Venue Name: Aloma Church Address: 1815 FL-436, Winter Park, FL 32792

Is parking available?

Yes. Parking is abundant.

Are hotels available nearby?

Yes. We have negotiated discounted rates with select hotels. Booking links will be provided on our website.

Is transportation provided?

Transportation is not included unless specifically noted.

Schedule

When will the schedule be released?

A preliminary schedule will be available soon.

Can the schedule change?

Yes. Speakers and session times may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Please join the Reach Discord for up to date information in real time. https://discord.gg/huXbjb9YQ

Speakers & Sessions

Will sessions be recorded?

Some sessions may be recorded. Recorded content availability will be announced after the conference.

Can I ask speakers questions?

Absolutely. Many sessions include live Q&A opportunities.

Will presentation slides be available?

When permitted by the speaker, presentation materials will be shared after the conference.

Workshops

Do workshops require separate registration?

No

What should I bring?

Please bring:

● Laptop

● Charger

● Notebook

● Business cards (optional)

● Headphones (for development workshops)

● Water bottle

Networking

Will there be networking opportunities?

Yes! We intentionally schedule networking breaks, mixers, roundtables, and community activities.

Can I promote my game?

Many networking events encourage attendees to share projects. Please be respectful and avoid aggressive sales tactics.

Indie Showcase

Can I demo my game?

Yes! Apply here – https://forms.gle/RVufQEb1x5YCBdyz8

Sponsors & Vendors

How do I become a sponsor?

Please contact Phil Conrod (phil.conrod@cgdc.org) for our sponsorship packet and available partnership opportunities.

Can I exhibit?

Vendor applications are full.

Accessibility

Is the venue accessible?

Yes. The venue complies with ADA accessibility standards.

Can dietary needs be accommodated?

Please list dietary restrictions during registration. We will do our best to accommodate requests.

Code of Conduct

What behavior is expected?

We strive to create a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment. Harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

What happens if someone violates the Code of Conduct?

Conference organizers reserve the right to remove attendees without refund if they violate our Code of Conduct.

Internet & Technology

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi will be available throughout the venue.

Are charging stations available?

CGDC recommends you bring your own chargers.

Photography

Will photos and video be taken?

Yes. By attending, you acknowledge that photos and videos may be used for future promotional purposes.

If you prefer not to be photographed, please notify registration staff upon arrival.

Volunteers

Can I volunteer?

Yes! Volunteers receive special benefits depending on their role. Applications will open prior to the conference. Please contact dawnmarie@cgdc.org if interested.

Safety

Who do I contact during the event?

Contact any staff member wearing an official conference badge.

For emergencies, notify venue staff immediately.

Contact Us

Have another question?

Email: dawnmarie@cgdc.org Website: cgdc.org

We're happy to help and look forward to seeing you at the conference

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