History of IGDC: From NASSCOM Roots to an Industry-Led Movement
The India Game Developer Conference (IGDC) is the country’s premier event for game creators, studios, and industry professionals. First launched in the early 2000s, IGDC has grown into the longest-running and largest game developer conference in India. What began as a NASSCOM initiative has now become a fully industry-led platform—run by volunteers, powered by passion, and dedicated to advancing India’s place in the global gaming ecosystem. From showcasing new talent and ideas to hosting international delegations, IGDC is where India’s game development community comes together to learn, connect, and grow.
About GDAI
Officially Formed in 2024, the Game Developer Association of India (GDAI) represents the full spectrum of Indian game developers, ranging from large studios, indie teams and individual creators. Stemming from India Game Developer Conference’s (IGDC) legacy, GDAI aims to position India as the global hub for video game development by leading cohesive efforts on policy advocacy, industry collaboration, and business growth. Every initiative under GDAI is supported by industry volunteers, making it a true reflection of the community it serves.
Flagship Initiatives
GDAI is building India’s game development ecosystem from learning to launch to global growth. Through skilling, game jams, and incubation, creators and startups gain access to mentorship, funding, playtesting, and strong industry networks. IGDC anchors this as the flagship conference, while Developer Day and Game Connect expand reach across the country. With 15+ state chapters, 1,000+ women in WIG, and global showcases, the ecosystem continues to grow and connect.
Meet the Team
Operations
Awards
Content Curators
Indie Initiative
I/P Connect
IGDC 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is IGDC?
The India Game Developer Conference (IGDC) is India’s biggest and longest-running game industry event, serving as the premier platform for game developers, publishers, investors, and ecosystem enablers.
Q2. When & Where is IGDC 2026 happening?
Dates: 28th – 29th Oct 2026
Venue: Chennai Trade Centre, Tamil Nadu
Q3. Where is the venue located?
Address: CTC Complex, Nandambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600089
Landmarks:
– 15 mins from Chennai International Airport
– 25 mins from Chennai Central Railway Station
– 10 mins from Guindy Metro Station
Q4. What are the best ways to reach Chennai?
By Air: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is well-connected with all major Indian cities
and global hubs
By Train: Chennai Central, Egmore, and Tambaram are major stations with extensive
connectivity
By Bus: CMBT and Koyambedu Bus Terminals offer interstate and city services
By Metro/Taxi/Auto: Convenient access from all arrival points to Nandambakkam (Chennai
Trade Centre)
Q5. What are the different ticket options?
1) Delegate Pass: Rs. 1499/- + tax
- Entry to all 3 days of the Conference
- Entry to Sessions, Expo Area
- Access to Awards show
- No access to Meetings schedule in the Event App
- F&B not included
2) Premium Pass: Rs. 5999/- + tax
- Entry to all 3 days of the Conference
- Entry to Sessions, Expo Area
- Lunch on all 3 days of the Conference
- Access to After Parties
- Meeting access on Official Event App
- Access to Networking Lounge
3) All Access Pass : Rs. 59999/- + tax
- Entry to all 3 days of the Conference
- Entry to Sessions, Expo Area
- Lunch on all 3 days of the Conference
- Access to Pre- event Mixer
- Access to official IGDC After Parties
- Exclusive Access to Business Lounge
- Meeting access on Official Event App
- Access to Networking Lounge
- Access to Hi Tea
Q6. Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets will be available soon on the official website.
Q7. Can I refund my ticket?
Yes, refunds are available on tickets purchased until October 31st, 2025.
Q8. Does IGDC provide accommodation?
IGDC does not provide accommodation directly. However, we have partnered with hotels
near the venue to offer discounted rates for attendees. These offers will be listed on the
website once you purchase a ticket.
Q9. What are the IGDC Awards?
The IGDC Awards celebrate the best talent, studios, and games across categories in the
Indian gaming ecosystem.
Learn more on the website.
Q10. What is the Investor-Publisher Connect?
The IGDC Investor-Publisher Connect 2025 is a curated, invite-only program that enables
top Indian game startups and studios to connect with international investors and
publishers.
Details available on the website.
Q11. What is the Indie Initiative?
The Game Developer Association of India (GDAI) proudly champions independent game development at IGDC 2025 through a series of curated programs that spotlight creativity, nurture talent, and strengthen the indie ecosystem. From showcases and awards to mentorship and community gatherings, the Indie Initiative is designed to celebrate and empower indie voices.
Learn more on the website.
Q12. What is the IGDC Expo?
The IGDC Expo is a vibrant showcase of studios, service providers, platforms, publishers,
tools, technology companies, and indie developers. It is the hub of activity for networking,
demos, and discovering what is new in the gaming ecosystem.
Access to the Expo is included with all passes.
Q13. How can I become a speaker?
Submit your session idea via the Call for Speakers section on the website. The IGDC content
team will review all proposals.
Deadline: September 20th, 2025
Q14. How can I become a sponsor?
We welcome partnerships. Submit your interest via the sponsorship form on the website.
Q15. How can media attend the conference?
Write to info@indiagdc.com with your media credentials. Our PR team will respond with
next steps.
Q16. What should I bring?
- A valid photo ID
- A digital pass (sent via email at the time of ticket purchase)
- A backpack for essentials
- Your portfolio (digital or printed – optional but recommended)
- Business cards for networking
Q17. Will food and beverages be available?
Yes.
- Premium & All Access Pass holders: Lunch included on all 3 days
- Delegate Pass holders: Food available for purchase from multiple vendors at the venue
Q18. Does IGDC organize other events?
Yes. IGDC, under the Game Developer Association of India (GDAI), conducts multiple online
and offline initiatives throughout the year, including Developer Day, Game Connect, Women
in Gaming, and WAVES Game Jam.
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