Epic bringing next-gen technology to GDC 2012

What might the future of gaming look like? Epic Games is answering that question next month at the 2012 Game Developers Conference, where it will show off its next-generation technology behind closed doors.

The company today detailed its GDC 2012 presence, noting that it will bring its next-generation technology--the Unreal Engine 4--to the show, which runs March 5-9 in San Francisco. A preview of the engine will be offered to "select" licensees, partners, and prospective clients during the show, with those parties forced to sign a nondisclosure agreement.

As for the next generation in general, speaking with GameSpot last summer, Epic Games president Mike Capps said, "It's hard to know exactly what's going to happen. We're bullish on the next generation. We're excited about it. But there's a big risk that nobody cares because they're all too busy playing [Zynga Facebook game] Empire and Allies, and they don't need a next-generation console box."

Of the three major console makers, Nintendo is the only company with a next-generation console announced and on the horizon. The Wii U is due for a worldwide release this holiday.

Epic also reiterated that studio design director Cliff Bleszinski will host the 2012 Game Developers Choice Awards. Fans who can't attend the awards show in March can watch a live stream of the event here on GameSpot (and through GameSpot's YouTube channel) the evening of March 7 at 6:30 p.m. PDT.