MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Those interested in what goes into creating video games before they hit shelves gathered in Madison this weekend, as around 1,500 people attended the annual MDEV conference. It is billed as the region's largest gathering for the video game industry.

The three-day event featured panel discussions, speakers, workshops and networking opportunities. Organizers invite anyone with an interest in video gaming to help grow Wisconsin's footprint in the gaming industry.

MDEV Chair Ben Klavo said Wisconsin is well-positioned to become a hub for game development.

"We have some really strong game development programs at UW," Klavo said. "We also have other big programs around the state in Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota. Since Wisconsin is in the middle it becomes a feeder into it. It also has the advantage of established studios."

The conference is one way game enthusiasts are working to expand Wisconsin's gaming reach. A tax incentive is currently being discussed at the Capitol that would give video game studios a 30% tax credit.

Supporters believe the incentive would attract more studios to the state and create more jobs.