Convergence of government, science, and arts makes Maryland a great state for games.

Putatively, America's second most significant game-development hub, after California (???).

The houses Sid built: five world-class studios, plus younger start-ups and support operations.

Success of BreakAway Ltd. in defense, government applications shows potential for "serious games."

Recent sale of Big Huge Games to 38 Studios confirms value, resilience.