IGDC 2026, organized by the Game Developer Association of India, emphasized government-industry collaboration and nurturing emerging Indian gaming talent, highlighted by the debut of IGDC Playground to expand access for players and creators to explore games from Indian studios.

Sridhar Muppidi, Chairperson of GDAI, outlined a plan to strengthen talent through skilling, mentorship, industry networks, and government support to help Indian developers build globally competitive studios and original IP.

GDAI reiterated IGDC as India’s largest industry-connect platform, fostering exchanges, partnerships, and opportunities for Indian developers to access international markets and develop globally competitive IP.

During the event, the minister highlighted AI engineering, game development, virtual production, cybersecurity, skills development, investment, and responsible technology adoption as key economic drivers.

The India Game Awards, presented by GDAI, recognized achievements across 14 categories including PC, console, mobile, indie, web, and board games, with new categories for serious and applied games and upcoming creators; special recognitions included Hall of Fame and Outstanding Women in Games awards.

Tamil Nadu AI Minister R. Kumar announced a 50 crore startup fund for the current financial year and discussed plans to strengthen the AVGC ecosystem, attract international studios, and develop homegrown IP beyond Chennai.

The Investor–Publisher Connect initiative facilitated interactions among more than 42 organisations, resulting in over 3,000 meetings and increasing investor interest in the Indian gaming sector.

GameDev Outlook 2026, GDAI’s annual industry report developed with PhonePe Appstore and The Dialogue, analyzes opportunities and challenges in India’s game development sector based on 104 industry responses and 13 academic institutions.

IGDC 2026 marked its 18th edition at the Chennai Trade Centre from October 28–31, drawing over 20,000 delegates from India and abroad.

Supernova Demo Day, part of IGDC 2026, showcased emerging developers and their games, giving them opportunities to connect with industry stakeholders and pursue commercialization paths.