GDC Festival of Gaming
Events ServicesCalifornia, United States201-500 Employees
GDC Festival of Gaming is an events services organization focused on the game development community, organizing a five-day gathering that combines education, inspiration, and networking. Based in San Francisco, California, it brings together professionals across programming, art, design, audio, production, and business leadership. The conference features lectures, panels, and roundtables, and a festival hall showcases tools, platforms, services, and games from AAA, AA, and indie studios, along with themed spaces for indie and retro play. In the broader industry, the event serves as a hub for education, peer recognition, and exposure to new development narratives through its programs. Two awards ceremonies—the Game Developers Choice Awards and the Independent Games Festival—highlight notable work across the development community. In January 2026, organizers announced the finalists for the 26th annual Game Developers Choice Awards.