[Ep545] GDC: Festival of Gaming - Should indie devs go in 2026?

Game Dev Podcast | Coffee with Butterscotch

In episode 545 of 'Coffee with Butterscotch,' the brothers discuss GDC’s rebrand into the “Festival of Gaming” and what the changes mean for indie developers considering the 2026 event. They break down the new pricing tiers, rising travel costs, and the shift toward business-focused networking, then share thoughts on how to prepare for conferences to make the most of the experience. The conversation also explores whether GDC still offers meaningful opportunities for learning and connection, and how alternative events like PAX, DICE, or regional gatherings might better serve indie teams.

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00:00 Cold Open
00:15 Introduction and Welcome
02:07 GDC: A Historical Perspective
05:37 GDC's Rebranding and Marketing Missteps
09:53 New Passes and Pricing Structure
18:29 Indie Developer Perspectives on GDC
22:36 Networking Opportunities and Industry Stratification
36:20 Challenges for Indie Developers at GDC
41:19 Networking at GDC: A Double-Edged Sword
45:13 The Cost of GDC: Is It Worth It?
49:07 Making Connections: The Value of Preparation
52:21 Alternative Events: Finding Value Beyond GDC

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