GDC: Shigeru strolls down Walk of Game

Mario and Link, and their creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, have both been honoured in the inaugural Walk of Game ceremony in San Francisco this week along with Sonic the Hedgehog and Pong creator Nolan Bushnell.

The real-life duo are the first developers to have their stars put into the San Franciscan ground, and it seems certain now that GDC is going to be a permanent and prominent fixture in the gaming calendar for fans and developers alike.

"Thank you very much for this honour," said Bushnell. "It's always fun to be walked on wherever you can be."

GDC's importance has skyrocketed since last year's show in San Jose, where all eyes glared on the event following rumours of an Xbox 2 announcement. The burgeoning attendance ensured a move to San Francisco for 2005, and with J Allard taking to the stage last night to discuss elements of Xbox 2, the focus on the event has become more severe.

Mario must be pleased about that.