The gaming industry is a pioneer of cutting-edge technologies, ushering in innovations like GPUs, virtual and augmented reality, physics engines, and immersive multiplayer experiences. Recorded as part of a16z's games fund accelerator, SPEEDRUN, the a16z cofounder Marc Andreessen and Andrew Chen, General Partner at a16z Games, discuss why a16z was compelled to establish a dedicated games fund. They explore the origins of tech pessimism, effective engagement with government in tech, its significance for the gaming community, the ongoing AI revolution, and even what Marc himself would build today if he didn’t have his hands full. Timecodes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:42 - The Bonding Power of Gaming 02:32 - How Gaming Drives Technological Innovation 05:32 - Technological Transitions: Moral Panics and the Promise of Progress 11:48 - Government, Innovation, and the Role of Regulation 21:37 - Envisioning the Future of Immersive Experiences 25:32 - AI as a Partner 33:00 - Big Models vs. Open Innovation 36:28 - Why a16z launched a games fund 43:29 - Shaping the Future of Gaming and Technology Resources: Find Marc on Twitter: https://twitter.com/pmarca Find Andrew on Twitter: https://twitter.com/andrewchen Learn more about SPEEDRUN: https://a16z.com/games/speedrun/ Stay Updated: Find a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16z Find a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16z Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/ Follow our host: https://twitter.com/stephsmithio Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.