Play & Relax in gama island
The Gamanian employee restaurant, gama island, has always been the center of attention for the outside world. As many media sources have published reports, gama island has gradually become the main reason that many people hope and dream that they will be able to join the Gamania. The mere notion of being able to have as much fun as you can take in this cheerful, stress-free space can fill one's heart with immense joy. gama island exists for the purpose of providing Gamanians with better employee benefits, enabling Gamania to set a corporate example for employee care, and realization of the principal that Albert has always persisted in working towards: enabling employees to enjoy their jobs and live happily. However, gama island is more than just a representation of the company's commitment and concern towards its employees as Albert officially announced that gama island is to be viewed as a highly important cultural asset to the Gamania Group during this year's Executives’ Meeting. This is because apart from broadcasting the Gamanian culture and image to the outside world, gama island also promotes interaction and exchanges internally, between employees, so that even more creativity may be inspired. In this issue of G!Voice, we will give you a glimpse of what Gamania island looks like in various Gamania branch locations while also creating an assortment of brand new looks for gama island. So let's head on over to gama island now! Let's go!
Editorial Department
02
● Publisher: Albert Liu ● Editorial Desk: Eric Chen ● Editor-in-chief: Yoyo Dai ● Creative Desk: Kiwi Chang/ Betty Wang ● Text Editor: Tomas Wang ● Art Editor: Nick Su ● Web Planner: Snow Yang ● Publishing: Gamania Brand Center
Contents Features
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On the Spatial Culture of gama island Me and My gama island gama island is a Subject of Envy and Desire An Ambassador for Gamania's Play Culture
Project
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Gamania Conference: Gamanians Begin the Fight
Events
34 36
Gamania Hall of Fame: July Winner of
Gamania Medal of Bravery Kart Rider Team Gamania Lecture
SagmeisterďźšHappiness is the Most Important Thing!
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GAMANIA
Features
04
Albert and other Gamanians had an unforgettable vacation on Phuket Island during a company trip in 2002. Then, a thought suddenly came to Albert: "Wouldn't it be great if there were a place in the office which made it seem like Gamanians were still back on Phuket Island?" Thus, planning for gama island began internally after the company trip came to an end. This as the origin of gama island: a space that belongs exclusively to Gamanians and has concepts of entertainment integrated within. Actually, 2002 just so happened to be a vital year for Gamania, as it was then that Gamania was able to turn a massive amount of proďŹ t within a year or two and become a widely noticed listed company through the dedication of all Gamanians. Not only were people able to see the fruits of Gamania's labor, this clearly demonstrated that Gamania definitely had the ability to get ahead in the recreational industry! At this point in time, Albert and the board of directors decided to reward all Gamanians by providing them with gama island. This is why the name gama island represents more than a paradise for fun. It also represents a reward that Gamanians received for their hard work. Nowadays, gama island is a colorful paradise for fun that Gamanians cannot live without. Gamanians are often seen on gama island, living out the life philosophy of "work hard, play hard".
Why the name gama islandďź&#x;
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GAMANIA
Features
Ahbin:
On the Spatial Culture of gama island
this is the place where Gamanian culture is cultivated Most Gamanians have had an experience like this: when they first walk into gama island, they think that it is the employee cafeteria/café at Gamania. Then, they realize that it's a gym and arcade when they take a turn and enter the Gama club. However, they are under a different impression once again when they sit down and discover the brand history wall and SPACE 17 before them, thinking that it's actually like a brand museum or a cultural gallery. This experience is no mistake, but the result of the deliberate effort which the brand center, responsible for organizing the space on gama island, put in. the brand center hopes that you will be able to get more out of this space, by integrating all sorts of possibilities into this setting.
With regard to the initial spatial planning for gama island, the first thing that the director of the brand center that Ahbin Chen mentioned was the three step progression of space and culture. "It's like how one is able to recognize the style or culture that certain building, street, or location anywhere in the world belongs to or represents right away. Why is this? This is because culture is able to create a particular style of space, then space internalizes this culture for the user, and the users provide the space with feedback in the form of their own intrinsic characteristics. Thereafter, a cultural identity arises for this space." During initial planning for gama island, the very first thought that came to mind was to incorporate Gamania's corporate culture into gama island. Chen laughed and said, "As the Gamania corporate spirit is "Love to Play", gama island
has to be a place where we can play at anytime." He used Gama club as an example to explain this, saying "As you can see, a variety of amusing entertainment equipment is laid out here, an invitation for you to have fun. This is because we don't view having fun as a sin. Rather, we want to encourage you to work hard and play hard so that you will finish your work as soon as possible so that you can continue playing as soon as possible." Though a certain space is usually utilized for one purpose alone, this is not how things are on gama island. "To tell the truth, we really are greedy. We hoped that all four walls of gama island would utilized as individual spaces. This is the reason that a total of four functions were included in the plan, including the original café concept and also the museum, gallery, and store functions. We hope that not only
Ahbin Chen Director, Brand Center
will this type of space setup make Gamanians more willing to enter this space, it will also come to foster environmental nourishment and internalization of culture so that Gamanians will come away with a sense of cultural identity and immense creative inspiration." Chen also encouraged Gamanians to participate in gama island as much as possible. "gama island is definitely an open space, and we welcome any play, expression of creativity, or sharing that goes on in here wholeheartedly because we feel that all of the imagination that stems from this space is highly precious. Subconscious imitation between Gamanians, each with his or her own variation of interests and specialties, can also create an infinite number of possibilities for Gamania internally."
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GAMANIA
Features
7
Aspects of gama island
The space at gama island can be divided into two major regions: the Gama café and the Gama club. Nonetheless, it's easy to see that the entire space has three main purposes at the same time: function, utility, and relaxation. This is the exact reason that gama island is more than just a place for Gamanians to dine. This space actually has much more significance. Now, let G!Voice guide you to explore the seven aspects of gama island from various angles.
1
Brand History Wall
A simple, elegant wall that serves as a brand history museum can be seen directly across from the Gama café's bar. It is similar in design to Monopoly squares, which form the most important brand core concept: Love to Play. Each square records the breakthroughs and innovations that Gamania has made in each stage, from 1999 until the present. Not only does the entire wall appear to be a historical map of Gamania, it also seems like a condensation of the history of game development in Taiwan. This space is an especially meaningful to those involved in the gaming industry.
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2 Café
The Gama café is the culmination of soft lighting, a clean environment, and the aroma of coffee in the air. Not only is a range of coffees and beverages served here, set meals are also served at noon, and an assortment of snacks are available in the afternoon, including cold noodles, glutinous rice, sandwiches, cake, and toast. The company also provides each Gamanian with a NT$30 discount each day, so most Gamanians visit daily. Though NT$30 a day may not be much, it's a token of appreciation from the company to each individual Gamanian.
3 Gym
Besides working hard, health is deďŹ nitely important to Gamanians who love to play. Some simple exercise equipment has been set up in the Gama club so that Gamanians who enjoy going to the gym can also exercise while they're at the company. There is a range of equipment available, including running machines and weight training equipment. In addition, there is the thoughtful inclusion of a shower room on the side, available to Gamanians and their hygienic requirements at all times.
4 Arcade
As Gamanians naturally possess a love of fun, all sorts of entertainment facilities are available in the Gama club, including fun games such as a basketball machine, Taiko: Drum Master, Dance Dance Revolution, and foosball. At the same time, equipment for table tennis and billards is also available. A considerable number of Gamanians who love to have fun and play visit daily, so it's no exaggeration to refer to gama island as wonderland of joy.
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GAMANIA
Features
5 Small Meeting Room
Many office workers may utilize cafes by their companies for meetings, but to Gamanians, gama island is the best location for meetings. Not only does the bright, relaxed atmosphere aid in sparking creativity, units which need to cooperate with outside vendors can also convey the Gamanian culture and spirit through Gama island's spatial design!
6 Cultural Gallery
SPACE 17, located at the rear of gama island, is a place for all Gamanians to put their creativity on display. Not only are different types of exhibitions held each month, masters and experts from various industries are invited to hold Gamania lectures here from time to time, providing Gamanians with essential sustenance for the psyche.
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7 Concept Store
A series of entertaining Gamanian products and Gamanian clothing are displayed along one side of the entrance to gama island. This includes the GA95 clothing line, 108 ďŹ gurines, brotherslife, and other products which Gamania developed or worked on. As sales are currently not open to the public, Gamanians are the only ones who have the opportunity to purchase these items, which are highly limited in number.
Evolution of gama island Actually, gama island didn't look so Gamania like in the beginning. The earliest gama island actually had quite a Southeast Asian atmosphere to it, back in 2002. G!Voice will now take you back in time so you can take a look at the evolution of gama island for yourself.
2002
2007
Statistics on the Energy Generated by gama island Many Gamanians feel that gama island serves as a rest stop in life for them as they dine, attend exhibitions, and listen to lectures each day on gama island. So how much energy can one gama island generate for Gamanians each day? Energy Supplementation:
580
Fills the tummies of
200
Gamanians per day
sandwiches per day
172
beverages per day
Knowledge Supplementation:
22
Exhibitions
20
Lectures
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GAMANIA
Features Views of gama islands Abroad
gama island
Initially, gama island was only established in Taiwan headquarters, which always made Gamanians from other regions envious and prompted them to ask frequently about when a comfortable, beautiful gama island like this would be constructed abroad. Thus, gama islands were established throughout Gamania branches in September this year, as a means to fulfill the expectations of Gamanias everywhere while also disseminating Gamanian culture to every region through this space. Though the gama island in Taiwan was unable to be entirely copied and reproduced in the
Gallery
12
GHK
various locations due to discrepancies in the space available, the culture and atmosphere of gama island has already been successfully conveyed to Gamanians in all regions. Gamanians abroad have happily stated that though in the past the Gamanian atmosphere was usually only felt when specific entertainment events were hosted, now they feel that they are enveloped in a thick Gamanian atmosphere as soon as they step in the office. Now, let’s show all Gamanians what other gama islands abroad look like through this gallery!
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GAMANIA
Features
GCN 20F
SPACE
16F
SPACE
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GKR 15
GAMANIA
Features
An Inside View of gama island
Me and My
gama island
What significance does gama island hold for us? Well, each Gamanian has his or her own interpretation. Some feel that it's a place where they can stock up on food, while others think it's a great place to have meetings. Yet others feel that it's a cultural center that is indispensible to Gamania. Regardless of each individual's view of gama island, the consensus is that "We can't live without gama island!" Why does gama island possess so much charm that it is able to win overwhelming support and adoration from Gamanians? Let's hear what Gamanians have to say!
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Chiao Huang
Machine Room Specialist, Operation System Framework Department (GTW) My initial impression of gama island was that it was a place with beautiful lighting and a great atmosphere. After getting to know more about this place, I came to feel that not only are the colleagues at gama island courteous, they cook delicious food too! As I work the swing shift, I've developed the routine of having a latte and sandwich before work as an energy booster. This is a mental rest stop for me. In addition, the gama island staff offers thoughtful service as they also remember what each person frequently orders! I think that I might have 70% less energy at work each day if gama island did not exist!
Eddie Yu
Senior Specialist, Threat Detection Division (GTW) The amazing thing about gama island is that it possesses every component, from food and drink to recreation, culture, and entertainment! I love the way the space looks in gama island, as it's innovative and representative of the Gamania culture and spirit. This is also the best place for me to go once I finish work (and also a place to relax through exercise after excessive brain use). gama island is a precious treasure to all Gamanians. If it did not exist, we would have no place to go when we wanted to take a break, and that would be miserable. However, if an area could be set aside in gama island for sale of secondhand goods, this would increase the amount of interaction between employees while also finding new owners for these items!
I decided that this was the job environment I wanted when I saw gama island on the official HR website during my job search! After getting to know it better, now I feel that this is where the spirit of Gamania is: having tons of fun! As this place is full of toys that guys like, gama island is also a place where I can truly relax. I often brag to friends about this great location in my company! *Looks proud* In essence, hooray for gama island!
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GAMANIA
Features Jyl Lin
Administrative Assistant, Game Operation Division 5 (GTW) Whenever something unpleasant happens at work, I enter gama island and realize once again that food is the most important thing to people, and if I don't work, I won't get paid. Without pay, I won't be able to eat, so the best solution is patience! This is why gama island is a great place that reminds me to work hard. In addition, I also like the gama island atmosphere. It would be hard for me to accept if gama island disappeared right now! I hope that more delicious items will be added to the gama island menu in the future, but they have to be available for takeout so that I can bring it back to by desk to enjoy while working at the same time.
Jerry Chung
Engineer, IT Department (GJP) I thought that gama island was awesome, and it became even cooler after I understood it better. Even when I have time off, I would like to take my friends to gama island for coffee. My favorite thing about gama island is the atmosphere it creates. Gamania wouldn't be the same if gama island didn't exist! As I'm working in Gamania Japan right now, I eagerly anticipate a gama island that is just like the one in Taiwan appearing in Japan next year! *Rolls around*
Alex Dai
Senior Art Designer, Art Design Department (Seedo) I thought that I had entered a high-class cafĂŠ, the first time I visited gama island! I like the fact that gama island feels like home, because the owner and employees are all very courteous. One can also witness how Gamanians live here, and it's a place for me to let go of stress and replenish energy (though I haven't visited often now that my workload has increased, gama island is still a great place to regain energy). In addition, my suggestion is that employee video game competitions can be held at gama island. Though we may not necessarily be better than the team of professionals, the Gamania Bears, everyone should think that this activity is great as we are a game company. Can this be possible?
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Bonnie Wang
Sales Assistant, Sales Department (GTW) It may be a slight exaggeration, but I wondered if I had seen heaven when I ďŹ rst saw gama island. As my previous position was the telephone operator, I had to be on duty at all times, leaving little time for me to slip down to gama island each day. However, as long as I was able to spend 10 minutes there each day, my life seemed a little merrier. I feel compelled to visit gama island for a while each day, for no particular reason other than to have some fun there! Now that I've transferred to the sales division, perhaps I will have the opportunity to hold meetings at gama island in the future. So please bear with me still in the future, gama island!
Eva Lee
Brand Strategy Planner, Brand Center (GHQ) I feel that the phrase "work hard, play hard" is best interpreted in gama island. To a newbie like me, gama island is the best place to experience the Gamania spirit without use of words. In addition, as I have always been in the cultural creativity industry previously, I felt the effort Gamania dedicated towards nurturing new cultural knowledge in employees as soon as I saw SPACE 17. Apart from this, I also suggest that gama island acquire a group audio-visual library in the future, so that it would be convenient for everyone to supplement themselves with a variety of new knowledge.
Owner of gama island
Amily W
u
The supervisor of gama island, Amily Wu, has worked there from the very start of gama island in Gamania. She watched five to six hundred Gamanians pass through each day with smiles on their faces. Apart from taking care of the hunger of Gamanians around the clock each day, on another level, Amily's job is also to show consideration to Gamanians each day! "In the past, there weren't so many employees at Gamania so I could recognize most by name. However, this is impossible now. All I can do is remember what they look like and what they like to order in general!" said Amily. As Gamania has expanded continually in the past few years and employee numbers continue to increase, gama island's service quality has remained uncompromised, but it's become somewhat difďŹ cult to remember the names of all Gamanian employees. However, most people are still touched when gama island staff remember the items which Gamanians usually order.
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GAMANIA
Features
Gamanians Abroad:
We Welcome the Arrival of gama island
Gamania ďŹ nished establishing gama islands in each location in September this year, and many Gamanian started out with great anticipation and ended up responding passionately after the establishment. This clearly indicates that the presence of gama islands are very important to Gamanians abroad. Now, let's hear what Gamanians from various locations have to say.
Catherine Fu
Accountant, Finance Department (GHK) Though GHK had an employee lounge originally, I usually only ate my meals there. Now that the feeling of gama island has been integrated, I am more inclined to rest there for a while after a busy period of work and have a cup of hot coffee. As office ladies in Hong Kong have paid special attention to their health and physiques in recent years, it might be a good idea to set aside a space in Hong Kong's gama island for everyone to do yoga!
Iris Luk
Sales Specialist, Sales Development Division (GHK) Normally, the most relaxing time of the day is lunchtime. I and other employees will stay in the employee lounge to watch Taiwanese idol dramas. Now that the employee lounge has transformed into gama island, the spirit and history wall allows everyone to gain a better understanding of Gamania's history and it's even more comfortable and relaxing to play video games and watch TV in this space. Apart from this, my favorite thing is the orange sofa. This is why I get to the orange sofa first, whenever we watch TV. It would be even better if a karaoke machine was established in the future!
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Tina Yang
Administrative Management Specialist, Administrative Management Department (GCN) Before the existence of gama island, the space where Gamanians dined and rested in Mainland China was very plain. Now that there is the Gamania spirit and history wall, Gamanians in China are able to better understand Gamanian culture during their breaks and the entire space has become more lively. In addition, the orange wall provides a taste of Gamania while also heightening the feeling of warmth in the room. I'm sure a lot of people would love to huddle here for warmth during the summer as they experience the heat of Gamanian passion.
Kimi Kim
Secretary, Secretary's OfďŹ ce (GKR) Before gama island existed, I was only able to chat briefly with coworkers in the refreshment room, small meeting room, or rooftop. Now that we have gama island, Gamania Korea is filled with the comfortable, recreational Gamania atmosphere despite its small size! I'm sure that people would become even more passionate about gama island if some traditional Korea teas and beverages were introduced and a television and gaming equipment were added.
AliBang Bang:
Everybody Loves gama island
In order to understand how everyone felt about gama island, G!Voice sent out many internal surveys. The most interesting of these was the group response from AliBangBang. No names were attached to the comments, yet there was a wealth of opinion (perhaps this meets the characteristic of AliBangBang being both low-profile and united ?). So this has been chosen by G!Voice for publication in question and answer form, so that everyone can see how creative they are. What are your feelings about gama island? Wow! This is a place for employee recreation and entertainment! ■ It's a great place to inspire creativity ■ A good location to chat and exercise ■ A place fill with a delicious aroma ■ The spatial design is great. It's lively and creative in style ■ It's too bad that it's not subsidized by AliBangBang, or else I would go more often ■ Tasty, novel, and fun ■ A symbol of the Gamania spirit and brand. All the Gamania peripheral products on display are really cute and the décor is bright and lively, so it matches the Gamania spirit ■ A 7-11, employee store for Gamania ■ Food! Food! Cheap, abundant food (the coffee and glutinous rice are great)!
What's the way that Gama island has helped you most? What do you like most about it?
■
Allows me to take a look and see if there are any attractive colleagues in the company ■ I can exercise properly during break time, without having to spend too much time ■ A location for a change in atmosphere and inspiration during a meeting ■ It provides information in the form of magazines, newspapers, and weekly publications ■ A great place to interact with coworkers ■ A place to replenish food stores, as everything is delicious ■ It's great that all Gamanians benefit from their frequent taste trials and sales! ■ They put a touching amount of sauce on the toast ■ They have thoughtful smiles and faultless service ■
What other functions do you hope for gama island to provide? Karaoke. It's easier for colleagues who can't spend a lot of time there to control their time usage by singing a song or two to sooth tense emotions ■ Hopefully the space and seating available can be expanded to accommodate more Gamanians ■ A movie theater with 100 seats and a large 100-inch screen, providing new movies or game exhibitions and competitions for each region periodically ■ Sofa, hammock, comics, punching bag, or refer to the setup at Google ■ Design a location to collect donations from Gamanians and cooperate with charitable foundations so that Gamanians can also participate in social welfare activities ■ Provide more game and design-related publications and magazines for perusal ■
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GAMANIA
Features
1.Entertainment Library
As Gamanians are well rounded, apart from being active and loving to play, we need to have a wealth of inner knowledge too. It's definitely necessary to have a expansive, interesting library to nourish our souls, cultivate proclivities, and inspire creativity. Some may ask: what books will be available inside? And the answer is that of course, all the books would be about play!
2.Modern Lounge Bar
We admit that this would be a true luxury, but think about all the workers in the creativity industry of the past (like writers, philosophers, artists‌) and you'll see that most happened to be drinkers. But it was the inspiration that their drinks provided that enabled them to leave many lasting masterpieces. Besides, there's certainly nothing wrong with having a few drinks and enjoying life a bit.
3.Matchmaking Center
Entertainment Library
It's only natural to make a relaxing place like gama island into a matchmaking center. After all, there are a lot of excellent singles within Gamania. It would be a waste not to take this opportunity and match them up or recommend them to those outside of the company!
7 gama island Modern Lounge Bar
Fantasies for
Though gama island possesses a number of aspects already, G!Voice thinks that there are yet more possibilities for gama island. Thus, we are proposing seven special fantasies for gama island. Gamanians will simply have to eagerly anticipate whether or not gama island may take on these forms in the future. However, if all this really came true, we're sure that Gamanians would all begin living at the ofďŹ ce!
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4.All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
There are indeed a good variety of items available on the gama island menu, but to those who love to eat, a buffet may be the only way to satisfy their appetites. It's tempting to even imagine the sight of one holding huge plate of food while continuing to pile more food on top.
All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
5.Karaoke
Karaoke
Some may feel that it's not acceptable to have karaoke facilities in an office building at all, but it will not really have a negative impact on neighbors as long has you have proper soundproofing equipment. Not only will having a karaoke machine satisfy the company's internal needs when it comes to all sorts of celebratory events, this will allow Gamanians who sing well to display their vocal talent. Perhaps the next winner of American Idol may emerge from the karaoke facilities at gama island!
Digital Movie Theater
6.Digital Movie Theater
There are definitely copyright issues when it comes to open screening of films, but if Gamania, with its digital entertainment kingdom, is able to cooperate with other film companies in the future, perhaps movies may be screen weekly. At that time, gama island would definitely be a fantastic location for this.
7.Capsule Hotel for a Few Z's
Perhaps capsule hotels, which are very popular amongst office workers who commute in Japan, can also be implemented in gama island. Apart from being a thoughtful service for Gamanians who have to work overtime, it may be better for Gamanians to take a good nap here (about 15 minutes) if they're feeling tired at work, instead of trying to stop themselves from nodding off throughout the day. They'll be able to work more effectively after a bit of rest.
Matchmaking Center
Capsule Hotel for a Few Z's
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GAMANIA
Features
An Outside View of gama island
gama island is a Subject of Envy and Desire Many people know about gama island, ranging from businesses that cooperate with Gamania to other companies in the gaming industry. So, what is the actual perspective of those outside of Gamania when it comes to gama island? After G!Voice conducted a series of interviews, the responses will now tell us why they think gama island is great!
Gyakuten Saiban (nickname)
Employee at Keystone Game Studio
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As we're all in the gaming industry, I occasionally learn more about the situation at other companies. To tell the truth, I was really envious after learning that Gamania had an employee recreation facility like this. I feel that this is the type of space that members of the creative industry should have. Not only is it pleasing to the eye, the overall atmosphere is excellent. If you asked me whether or not I would want to work for Gamania because of gama island, the honest answer would be that I am actually a bit tempted. This is because I can see that the employees at this company probably have fantastic beneďŹ ts because their owner is willing to spend money for their sake.
Chen Hui-zhi To tell the truth, I was shocked when I walked into gama
Supervisor of Printing and Art Deparment at Shencai Design
island. I didn't think that an employee cafeteria like this would exist in an ofďŹ ce building (on the 17th oor). Also, the entire atmosphere there is very Gamanian, and it makes it seem incredibly fun to work for Gamania. If I were an employee at Gamania, I would probably get stuck at gama island as soon as I entered and be unwilling to leave. I would play games for an entire day, and leave work contentedly when the day ended. If would be marvelous if this really happened!
Xie Ying-tong In my view, a large company like Gamania has to have
owner of Hongqi Bakery
a comfortable place like this so that employees can take a break or connect with each other. Then, the employees will feel motivated to work hard and repay the company. I have also discovered that there is a really diverse amount of food and drink available at gama island (can't help this, as the taste of all these employees have to be taken into consideration), in addition to the bread from our bakery. Every once in a while, I'll ďŹ nd out that many new items have been added to the gama island menu, which is very touching!
Lin Zhao-kui It's great that Gamania has a comfortable employee
Purchasing Specialist at Quanwang Marketing
cafeteria like gama island (Perhaps this is also a trend in the digital technology industry). I have sat in gama island several times and watched the employees passing by, and the feeling I got was that: "It makes one glad to work here". In addition, the Gamania wall of history also left a deep impression on me. I read every word of it, describing Gamania's progress from the Fullsoft era to present day, and this gave me a much better understanding of the company culture at Gamania.
Xiu Li-ren I once had a meeting at gama island, and my first
Former President of TPCI
impression was that it was a "very convenient multipurpose facility providing snacks, beverages, and entertainment". I felt that it was a location that would allow everyone to relax appropriately during break time. In addition, I felt that gama island was an honest reflection of Gamania's human-centric view that "employees are the largest asset of the company", and that the effort which Gamania placed into this could be seen everywhere. Perhaps it's because Gamania has fantastic benefits when it comes to every aspect, that they are often able to retain the very best talent!
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GAMANIA
Features
Parkview Hotel Gamania An Ambassador for Gamania's Play Culture: gama island Appears in Eastern Taiwan
Under the invitation of the most well-known hotel in Eastern Taiwan, the Parkview Hotel in Hualien, Gamania decided to make gama island an ambassador for our culture of play. gama island, which originally belonged exclusively to Gamanians, will be introduced to the Parkview Hotel starting this summer. Apart from bearing the responsibility of promoting our culture and gaining market support, this will allow travelers who visit Eastern Taiwan to experience Gamania’s playful spirit, which is what sets us apart from other corporations!
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The Parkview Hotel is the top choice for many visitors when it comes to accommodations on a trip to Hualien. The hotel has introduced many recreational facilities in recent years, providing se r vi ce s s uch as pr of es si on bicycle rental, video rental from a franchise, and so forth. As the Parkview is located in Hualien, with its wealth of natural sights, a summertime atmosphere can be seen everywhere and it's the best place to escape from the heat in Taiwan. The Parkview entered into special cooperation with Gamania this summer, spending NT$1 million to transform the hotel's original business center into a gama island filled with joy. The Parkview has always
had the concept of establish a recreational space, and they made the transformation because they wanted to make the hotel a vacation paradise for all ages and draw more teenage customers, now that online games have become immensely popular. Upon entering the gama island at Parkview, the white and orange theme is strictly Gamania. The Parkview gama island was designed with the concept of fruit trees on a vacation island. Apart from providing all visitors with a more relaxed, comfortable space to play, we also hoped to convey the joy at Parkview and Gamania's brand spirit of "Love to Play" through this. Apart from retaining the original
services provided by the business c e n t e r, G a m a n i a h a s a l s o designed five all-new play areas for the Parkview gama island, including the Gama Play Zone, Gama Theater, Gama Park, Gama Food Court, and Gama Shop. Gamania hopes that, through these concepts of spatial design, every visitor will be able to play in all postures and expressions while they are here. Not only has Gamania managed to bring its own play culture to Eastern Taiwan through the establishment of this gama island, we have also proven that gama island does indeed possess irresistible allure when it comes to play!
GamaniaďźˆHQ
Fun Map for the Parkview Hotel gama island
There are a number of interesting spatial concepts for gama island at Parkview Hotel. Let's take a look now at the fun things there!
Parkview Hotel
Gama Theater Exciting animations and ďŹ lms from Gamania are screened at all times, satisfying each passionate, playful adult and child.
Gama Play Zone
Gama Park
Gamania players who love to play will be able to play to their heart's content here. All sorts of fun games from Gamania are available here, for you to enjoy to the fullest.
Those who want to browse the internet can visit this location to spend some good times relaxing and browsing the web.
Gama Shop
Gama Food Court
An array of amusing, playful Gamania products are displayed here. Those who are tempted will be able to purchase them online, to the side.
Those who get tired from all the playing they're doing can come to this clerk-less store to purchase some snacks and drinks so that they can continue playing after regaining their strength.
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GAMANIA
Project
Gamania Conference: Gamanians Begin the Fight
Gamania conferences are held each quarter at Gamania as a means to gather all Gamanians together so that they can enjoy snacks, share new knowledge, listen to Albert's announcements on key company policies, and conduct the Q&A session which is everyone's favorite time. Though this activity, which is similar to a large family gathering, was originally held only at Gamania headquarters, Gamania China and Gamania Japan joined in this year also, establishing different Gamania conferences that belonged to various parts of the world. Now, let's take a look at the exciting events which occurred during Gamania conferences throughout these locations!
All Gamanians from
Taiwan HQ
and the Entire Group Assemble! Though Gamania conferences used to be a meeting for just the 700 or so Gamanians in the Gamania company in the past, starting this August, all companies within the Gamania group, including R&D subsidiary companies Seedo, Red Gate, Playcoo, and Alibangbang, representation subsidiary c o m p a n y Ta i w a n I n d e x Corporation Ltd., and media subsidiary company Fundation
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Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd. will be participating in the group festivities from now on. On the day of the Gamania conference, all members of the Gamania group were present, a total of more than a thousand people. Due to the sheer size of the Gamania group, some colleagues were unable to find seating. Upon seeing this, Albert also promised that he would attempt to find a place to accommodate everyone
comfortably in the future. Of course, there was a key mission to the Gamania conference this time: explaining the new policies of the Gamania group to everyone. After Gamanian supervisors attended the Summer Group Strategy Meeting at the start of August this year, the Gamania conference that followed assembled all the Gamanians in the group so that Albert could announce the results of the strategic meeting. Before the new strategy was announced, Albert led everyone in a review of Gamania's history, "After representing Lineage in 2000, Gamania became a rising star. In 2002, Gamania accomplished something other Asian companies were afraid to do: develop itself in Mainland China and Japan. Though
Gamania faced setbacks, we were able to reestablish ourselves after three years, from 2003 to 2005. Just as other companies in the industry were speculating that "the horror of Gamania is gone now", Gamania was actually resuscitating itself rapidly. Ever since representing Maple Story in 2006, Gamania has readjusted its pace to stand back up with an even firmer stance. This is why Albert thanked each Gamanian for his or her hard work during the Gamania conference this time. Al be rt t hen we nt on t o s ay, " H o w e v e r, r a d i c a l c h a n g e s occurred to the online game market in the 6 years from 2003 to 2008 and Gamania fell from a leading position to 10th in Asia. Mainland Chinese companies became stronger as Japanese companies also began to rise. Nonetheless, Gamania continued to move forward at a rapid pace. During the period, we went from
suffering overall losses overseas to controlling deficits in China and Korea, and then earning profit in Japan and Hong Kong. At the same time, our ability to research, develop, and self-produce began to increase. I am fully confident that the self-made products which we are about to launch next year will be extremely competitive. After playing defensively for 6 years, now Gamania is about to begin its assertive offense. We have grown at a fierce speed in the first half of this year, and I look forward to seeing continual development of this power. I hope to make Gamania the largest online game company in the world within 10 years!" Then came the announcement of the four most important group strategies. After explaining each individual strategy, Albert also requested that everyone memorize the G4 points which will enable Gamania to become the best in the world by heart
and make them the guiding principles for their work. In order to motivate colleagues who work hard and accomplish goals while encouraging everyone to continue forward, Albert also revealed that a group reward plan will be implemented starting January 1st next year. Those from all units will be included in the reward plan, such as operations, support, and R&D. In addition, these rewards will definitely exceed employee bonuses. At the very end was Q&A time, which everyone was looking forward too. Though Gamanians usually utilized this as a opportunity to ask Albert for various things in the past, this year most people asked questions about operations on their QA sheets. From this, it's easy to see that Gamanians are now mentally prepared for this war!
The Serious Q&A Session:
Q1
What is the definition and function of Gamania Taiwan (GTW) and Gamania Headquarters (GHQ)? I often encounter communication problems during cooperation…
Albert：the job of headquarters is to establish policies and execute major R&D projects. Next year, Gamania will be adding two new locations in Europe and America for a total of 7 locations. If we do not have a method of conducting overall planning for the operations in each region and act simply as individual companies, we will not be able to operate with combined efficacy. As for the cooperation between headquarters and other regions, we will begin to ask first-line supervisors to keep an eye on this. We need each and every individual within the organization in order to complete a single task. If Gamania does not think in terms of the big picture, then we will not be able to accomplish anything.
Q2
Would it be possible to make USB privileges available throughout the company as it's really inconvenient while working…
Albert ： To give an example, would you be able to use a USB drive you brought and plug it in anywhere you want at the Ministry of National Defense or Pentagon building in the U.S.? Oftentimes, by the time a virus is discovered, it has already progressed to the point of a serious infection. When you place the convenience of a few on a scale against the information security within the company, it's clear what choice to make. In addition, Gamania's most valuable asset is customer information, so the harm that a hacker can cause by entering the company system through a USB is unfathomable. I would like to remind everyone to think seriously about how necessary USB drives are because in fact, Gamanians can apply for USB usage rights through approval from their supervisor. Here I have to reiterate that complete availability of USB privileges is absolutely impossible!
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GAMANIA
Project
Gamania China Gamania's AOW
China Chief Operating Officer, V Huang
Group Chief Research Officer, Alan Kuo
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As Gamania China expanded from 30-some employees last year to 80 employees now and all of the offices are rented in separate locations, colleagues now spend less time in contact with each other. In order to help the group work together in a more cooperative manner, help Gamanians understand their importance within the team and feel that they are participating in the company's management strategies, China COO V Huang decided to begin holding quarterly Gamania conferences starting this year. They have been temporarily named Gamania Bonding Seasons. The activity for the first part of Gamania Bonding Season was laser tag. As elements involved in laser tag are almost identical to the current operational product at Gamania China, Art of War, laser tag won the most votes when internal voting began, although there were other competing options such as sports activities, barbecues, and dinners. The activity was also named "Gamania's AOW". The activity was conducted by dividing colleagues in the operational and R&D departments into four teams competing against each other. The winning team received certificates for being the Best Team in Combat, signed by the COO, and a cash awards to celebrate their victory. The group's Chief Research OfďŹ cer, Alan Kuo, was also invited to participate in the ďŹ rst Gamania Bonding Season this year. He led colleagues from Gamania China's art department and R&D office in tough battles, trading their sweaty efforts for a pretty
good performance. The second part of the Gamania Bonding Season consisted mainly of a Q&A session with the COO. Even though it was their first face-to-face Q&A session with the COO, the Gamanians from Gamania China were not shy about voicing the multitude of questions they had in their minds. COO V Huang read all the questions patiently, just like Albert, and answered them one by one, resolving them when he could. After the Q&A session ended, Huang also encouraged all of the staff members at Gamania China, saying that "this year is a very important year for Gamania China, as we are preparing for the launch of a new product. I hope that everyone will work hard in unison!" CRO Alan Kuo also led everyone present in shouting out the slogan: Gamania! Have a good GAME!
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GAMANIA
Project
Chief Operating Officer Kiyoshi Asai
Chief of Management Department Jackie Chen
Chief of Operations Department Hideki Nakajima
Gamania Japan
Gamania Conference Celebration! As Gamania has managed to establish a place for itself in the Japanese market, Gamania Japan has also gradually expanded in scale. It has gone from 10 or so people in 2002 to 84 people this year, and the employee count is expected to increase to 130 people next year. In order to communicate the company's operational situation and the group's strategic policies to all Gamanians, Gamania Japan held its first Gamania conference this year. Apart from the exquisite cuisine that day, there was also a raf fle with a wealth of prizes to reward hardworking employees. The key of ficers of Gamania Japan also presented important company information to everyone during the Gamania conference. First, the Chief of the Management Department, Jackie Chen, announced the performance for
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the first semester, "in comparison to last year, there has been 100% growth this year, so performance surpassed standards for the first half of the year. Though all figures indicate the best performance ever for Gamania Japan, I hope that everyone will not become complacent with our good performance right now and will continue to work even harder." Chief Operating Officer of Gamania Japan, Kiyoshi Asai, first mentioned that the most pressing goal for Gamania Japan in the next half year is to recover revenue for current games to 2008 standards in order to reach the 2009 goal, stabilize revenue for TG Online, and improve revenue for self-produced product, Zodiac Online, by 10 to 15%. Before announcing future strategy, Asai led all employees in a review of the histor y of
Gamania Japan. The free online game, Eternal Chaos, was first launched in 2002. In the same y e a r, G a m a n i a J a p a n a l s o participated in the Tokyo Game Show. In 2003, B2B cooperation began on the Gash platform. In 2006, Gamania cell phone games were launched, and Ta i w a n e s e g a m e s s u c h a s Dream of Mirror Online and Holy Beast Online were introduced for the first time. By reviewing past events, it was clear to see that Gamania Japan had accomplished many challenges and feats in the past. Asia hoped that everyone would continue to strive for better progress by holding the notions of innovation and courage against challenges in their hearts. In order to achieve the group's goal of becoming the number one brand of digital entertainment in the world, Asai announced that
Prizes for Gamania Japan 1. DVD player / 2. Wii / 3. Digital camera / 4-5. PSP / 6-7. NDSL / 8. iPod nano / 9-10. Digital picture frame 11-12. Scale / 13. Neck and shoulder massager / 14. Electric toothbrush / 15. DS speakers / 16. Electronic heater 17. Book: Useless Man on the Net (initial translation, not published in Taiwan)
product development for Gamania Japan will now progress in three main directions henceforth: 1. Web games, 2. Games other than MMOs, and 3. Games based upon Zodiac players (cute games, especially self-produced products). This will aid Gamania Japan in growing more robust in preparation for the coming war! CEO Albert made a special appearance at the first Gamania conference ever in Japan to announce the group's key
strategy to ever yone: the G4 points. Apart from being proud of these partners in Japan who were able to pick themselves up after failure and successfully progress towards victory, Albert also encouraged them to continue moving forward, "next, the global setup will be activated and Japan plays an important role in this. It's not enough to have the scale of the Taiwan headquarters alone. The scale in Japan must also be added to this. While our power
Albert's Special Prize. 50,000 x6
in Taiwan ensures that Gamania will not be easily defeated by competitors, our strength in Japan ensures that Gamania is able to compete for first place alongside world-class competitors. This is the reason that everyone present here plays a vital role when it comes to the history of the Gamania group. From now on, we have to adapt an offensive attitude. Let's work together to make Gamania the best in the world!"
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GAMANIA
Events
SPACE 17 is the designated exhibition space for Gamanians that has been designed to facilitate cultural interactions within Gamania. It serves as the perfect venue for Gamanians to let loose their unlimited creativity and crazy ideas. Gamania hosts exhibitions and events on a monthly basis at SPACE 17 on top of irregularly inviting creative experts such as artists and designers to speak and exchange ideas with Gamanians. In the future, SPACE 17 plans to assist Gamanians to share even more of their creative thoughts and present more interesting person/ incidents/objects within the company.
Gamania Lecture
Sagmeister: Happiness is the Most Important Thing! Recently, a heavyweight master in the design industry, Stefan Sagmeister, appeared at an Gamania Lecture after an invitation from the Gamania Brand Center. Not only did Sagmeister share his latest ďŹ lm, Design Film, with Gamania in this lecture, he also shared with us the concept that he has always stuck to in design: happiness. What relation exists between design and happiness? Continue reading and you'll find an in-depth report from G!Voice.
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Stefan, who has just arrived in Taiwan after a plane ride from Bali Island, did not appear to be fatigued at all. Instead, he looked extremely relaxed, as if he were on a vacation. Unlike his challenging, avant-garde works of the past, Stefan appeared before us as a kind, down-to-earth individual who did not act like an international maestro at all. This good mood echoed the content that Stefan was about to share with Gamania: how happiness has impacted his designs, and how his designs impact happiness. As an Austrian American designer, Stefan is one of the most active and influential masters of visual arts in the modern day. He has won recognition from the Grammies for designing a series of thrilling album covers for classic rock bands in the past. He
has also designed brand images and package design for renowned companies such as HBO and Time Warner. Stefan's work has been exhibited all over the world, and few would oppose the statement that Stefan Sagmeister was the number one figure in graphic design today. During Stefan's lecture, he continually mentioned the importance that happiness had in his work while providing some of this most creative works of the past as evidences. Not only do these works of text visualization demonstrate Stefan's exceptional imagination, the symbolism behind them is also deeply inspiring. For example, sayings such as "Trying To Look Good Limits My Life" and "KEEPING A DIARY SUPPORTS PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT" are mottos he has recorded for
himself after many years of work experience. After observing Stefan Sagmeister's lecture, perhaps Gamanians may ponder their relationships with work from a different angle. Though what Stefan shared with Gamania this time are his thoughts after working in the design industry all these years, what he is actually conveying through the lecture is the relationship between work and happiness. Those who are not happy when they work will not be able to create magnificent work, while it is hard to glean any joy out of unsatisfactory work. An important topic which all workers must consider is how to enable themselves to work happily and be happy with their work.
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GAMANIA
Events
Stefan Sagmeister's Radical Designs
Stefan Sagmeister is used to surprising people when it comes to visual design, whether this means that it's a commercial poster that brings a smile to someone's face, a shocking album cover, or outlandish images which harbor surprises. G!Voice has selected three of Stefan Sagmeister's signature works below.
AIGA lecture poster ,1999 This lecture poster that he designed for the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) is one of his most controversial works. Using his own body as a medium, he carved all the lecture information on there as an exposed form of self-expression. Stefan breaks free from previous modes of poster production to create a unique, daring artistic style.
Mountains of Madness ,1996 The cover for this H. P. Zinker album, Mountains of Madness, is the face of a peaceful old man. However, once the CD leaflet was taken out, the peaceful old man transformed into a screaming devil. Though the effect was shocking, the concept was extremely fitting. Stefan's first album cover design made him an overnight sensation, and he went on to win the special distinction of a Grammy that year.
Things I Have Learned In My Life So Far, 2008 Stefan's new book, Things I Have Learned In My Life So Far, is a continuation of his playful nature. The cover of the book is hollowed out and the book separated into several small sections so that readers who like him can change the look of the cover whenever they please.
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