The Game Developer Conference (GDC), a cornerstone event for game creators, is undergoing a significant transformation. Rebranding as the GDC Festival of Gaming, the event aims to better reflect the evolving landscape of the video game industry. The next iteration is scheduled to take place from March 9-13, 2026, in San Francisco, California, promising a renewed focus on connection, opportunity, and relevance for its attendees.
Key Takeaways
- The Game Developer Conference has officially rebranded to GDC Festival of Gaming.
- The change signifies a response to current industry challenges such as tighter budgets, fractured attention, and increased difficulty in discovery.
- A new pass structure will be implemented, offering broader access at a reduced cost.
- The event will continue to be held annually in San Francisco.
Responding to Industry Transformation
Organizers announced the rebranding, stating, "The industry is changing and so are we." This sentiment underscores a strategic shift to address the contemporary challenges faced by game developers. The announcement highlighted that "the landscape has transformed. Budgets are tighter. Attention is fractured. Discovery is harder than ever. New tech and tools have redefined who can create. Our community needs more connection, visibility, and support."
The GDC Festival of Gaming is designed to be a comprehensive experience, encompassing the "full game-making journey, in one place." The organizers aim to foster greater connection and provide more opportunities within the industry, ensuring the event remains relevant to the needs of its community.
Enhanced Attendee Experience
A notable change for the 2026 event will be a revised pass structure. The new "Festival Pass" will replace the previous "All Access" pass and will be offered at a "dramatically" lower price. This initiative aims to provide "more access" and eliminate the need for "trade-offs," making full access the standard rather than an exception. Special discounts will also be available for start-ups and academic institutions.
A Look Back and Forward
The previous GDC event saw nearly 30,000 attendees, matching the 2024 figures. However, there was a notable increase in exhibitors, rising from 325 to 400. The conference featured over 1,000 speakers, hosting 750 sessions, workshops, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities. GDC 2025 also introduced "GDC Nights," an after-hours event that attracted over 6,000 attendees across its two nights.
The rebranding to GDC Festival of Gaming signals a commitment to adapting and evolving alongside the dynamic video game industry, ensuring it continues to be a vital hub for developers worldwide.
