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Chris Bell π
CEO & Creative Director at Gardens
Chris Bell π is a prominent figure in the video game industry, currently serving as the CEO, President, and Creative Director at Gardens, a company he co-founded in May 2021.1 With over 14 years of experience in the gaming industry, Bell has established himself as a leader in game design, production, and creative direction.2
Career Highlights
Notable Projects:: Chris Bell has been involved in several critically acclaimed and commercially successful games:
- Lead Game Designer for "Sky: Children of the Light" at thatgamecompany (250M+ downloads, 7.5M+ daily active users)2
- Lead Game Designer and Writer for "What Remains of Edith Finch" at Giant Sparrow (BAFTA Game of the Year 2017)2
- Designer and Producer for "Journey" at thatgamecompany (Multiple Game of the Year awards in 2012)2
- Creator of "Way" (Game of the Year at Games for Change 2011)2
Previous Roles::
- Lead Game Designer at thatgamecompany (2017-2019)
- Lead Game Designer & Writer at Giant Sparrow (2013-2017)
- Game Designer & Producer at thatgamecompany (2011-2012)
- Designer & Producer at Carnegie Mellon University (2009-2011)
- Design Intern at The Stupid Fun Club (Will Wright's think-tank)2
Education
- Master of Entertainment Technology in Interactive Experience Design from Carnegie Mellon University (2009-2011)1
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and Art History from the University of Florida (2005-2009)1
Expertise and Recognition
Chris Bell's areas of expertise include game design, company leadership, social and multiplayer design, MMO design, game direction, narrative design, and world-building.2 His contributions to the gaming industry have earned him several accolades, including:
- Forbes 30 Under 30 in Entertainment (2012)
- Tornado Award from Carnegie Mellon University
- 2024 Alumni Award from Carnegie Mellon University2
At Gardens, Chris Bell is focused on "growing the worlds we want to play in every day," continuing his passion for creating innovative and engaging gaming experiences.2
Highlights
Hard to believe today was the final day of Stanford University Graduate School of Business' dy/dx. Stephen Bell, Jane Ng and I are incredibly grateful to have represented Gardens Interactive in the third annual cohort. The program is invaluable β insightful, immediately applicable, validating. Thank you to the world-class GSB faculty and staff for your insight, time, care and support. We will carry your lessons into every challenge and crucible moment ahead, and we will do our best to share everything we learned with our team.
Another immense thank you to program co-sponsors Lightspeed, Index Ventures, Sequoia Capital, Innovation Endeavors and Accel. Thank you for nominating us and for making this possible, and thank you to all of the founders and managing partners for donating your time and insight in the classroom. We're also now deeply honored to grow with you as partners, as all of these amazing sponsors have officially secured participation in Gardensβ next funding round!
This adventure was unforgettable. Thank you!
Are there any events happening in LA for Summer Game Fest?
I live nearby and would love to attend and connect with friends!
