Games Connect Asia Pacific 2026 announced, celebrating 20 years
The Interactive Games and Entertainment Association (IGEA) has announced that Games Connect Asia Pacific (GCAP), the professional games conference focusing on upskilling and building connections for mid-to senior-level video game practitioners, will return to Melbourne this year from 5 - 7 October.
GCAP is a professional games conference, focusing on upskilling and building connections for mid-to senior-level video game practitioners.
In 2025, the global games industry experienced rapid shifts in direction, markets and technology. As an industry and community, these challenges were met with the enquiry, resilience, and collaboration that characterise those at the intersection of arts and technology. Accordingly, the content focus for this year is:
Future Ready and what the next 1-5 years hold
I’M HERE! Making your mark so that you find your niche and stand out
Indie Indie Indie! The big hits and the opportunities
Numbers Game how to understand and utilise your analytics.
With greater focus on advanced-level talks, GCAP 2026’s sessions will be designed not just to open discussion but to provide education and help the Australian video games industry and community develop and thrive. Attendees can expect in-depth talks for development disciplines, engaging roundtables, and keynotes grounded in reality to enhance professional development.
Last year saw the introduction of more formal networking sessions across the entire program, providing space for tailored industry specialists to come together and discuss pressing industry issues. Feedback from attendees showed these networking sessions resulted in numerous opportunities so they will form an integral part of the program.
We are looking for talented speakers, with submissions open now. These can reflect the suggestions outlined above or be a separate area that you feel the industry would benefit from hearing. Learn more here.
As part of GCAP, join IGEA on Wednesday, October 7, to celebrate the 2026 Australian Game Developer Awards (The AGDAs). This year, The AGDAs will take pride of place as the closing ceremony for GCAP, marking a stunning year of the best Australian talent. Last year’s winner, The Drifter from Powerhoof Games went on to win the D.I.C.E Award for outstanding achievement in story. More details about the AGDAs will be revealed soon.
GCAP and The AGDAs would not be possible without the generous support of our industry partners. If you would like to support the Australian games industry, please reach out to our Sponsorship Team to discuss available sponsorship opportunities.