The global gaming community has come together to show its mad love for the Japanese video game industry by raising awareness for Red Cross relief efforts in Japan.

The 60-minute special called Gamers Heart Japan, which premieres Sunday on broadcast networks G4 and SPACE in Canada, will feature interviews from the world’s top game developers and veteran video gaming journalists.

Vancouver is home to video game giants such as Electronic Arts and Nintendo Canada as well as small video game development houses popping up in the Lower Mainland.

The city’s gaming scene has produced some notable titles such as the Need for Speed series, The Sims 3 and Counter Strike.

Prominent game designers like Peter Molyneux (Fable), Cliff Bleszinski (Gears of War) and Ed Boon (Mortal Kombat) will be sharing their thoughts and feelings about the work, influence and talent of creators from the Japanese gaming industry.

“Japan has been so influential for the video game industry,” said Ben Silverman, senior editor of Yahoo! Games. “I think all of us our first memories are often with Japanese games whether it’s Pacman, Space Invaders and Super Mario Bros. that the thought of being involved in a project like this was a no-brainer.”

The video aims to give tribute and support for the video game community in Japan that has been at the forefront of creating some of the largest and well-known game series such as Final Fantasy, Mario and Resident Evil.

“Without Japan, I don’t believe there’s a video game industry,” Silverman said. “Next to America, it’s the most important country in my life. It has given me a career, a passion, a love and so I feel I need to give that love back when they’re in a time of need and tragedy.”

“It’s a big love fest and it really should be. Japan’s one of our tightest brothers and this country needs help and we need to give it.”

Donations for Red Cross in your area can be made through GamersHeartJapan.com.