Games Festival Showcase

Successful applicants will be notified shortly after the submission platform closes on 30 June 2025. All selected games will be provided two (2) Pro Passes, studios attending in person may request up to four (4) Pro Passes. Additionally, SXSW Sydney will provide booth build, signage, television and furniture at no cost to the participants.

Although we encourage everyone to attend to get the most out of the festival, we understand that this is not always possible, therefore SXSW Sydney offers developers remote showcasing opportunities. The Games Festival Showcase is one element of a range of networking events, professional development seminars, workshops, mixers, themed events and parties that takes place during the SXSW Sydney Games Festival. Pass holders are welcome to attend any range of events that take place across the program including the accompanying Music, Screen and Technology & Innovation Festival and Conference.

If you represent a publisher or games collective and would like to organise a Presenter Showcase. Please contact the Games Team at gamesfest@sxswsydney.com

The Games Festival will be held during SXSW Sydney on 13-19 October 2025.

2025 FAQ

How are titles chosen for the Games Showcase?

The SXSW 2025 Games Festival programming team reads, plays, and evaluates submissions according to the following criteria: originality, technicality, graphical, narrative game design, and gameplay. Every single submission is reviewed and assessed by multiple parties. Following the assessment, successful applicants will receive an invitation to showcase at SXSW Sydney. Unfortunately, as we anticipate a large number of submissions, it will not be possible to accommodate every application.

Can I apply for the showcase and the expo?

All developers can apply for both the Games Showcase and the Tech & Innovation Expo. If you are accepted into both you will be given the option to choose which option you prefer. It is important to note that the Games Showcase has no additional costs to present at SXSW Sydney Games Festival, however there is an exhibition cost for the Expo.

Do I need to attend if I am selected?

If selected, it is encouraged but not mandatory that you attend. If you are unable to attend, we will provide staffing for your game when it is being showcased during the festival.

What if I do not have a demo ready before applications closes on 30 June 2025?

We accept games that do not have completed demos before the submission close dates. Please submit as much information as you can about your game including pitch decks, prototypes, game footage or other materials so the team can make an informed choice about your game. If selected, you must have a demo available before 31 August 2025 for inclusion in the Games Showcase.

Will there be a Steam event page?

While the focus of the event is a physical showcase, an official Steam event page will be created and promoted during the festival.

How can I apply for the Game Awards?

All titles accepted into the Games Showcase are eligible for the Game Awards.

When will I find out if my game is selected?

Successful applicants will be notified on a rolling basis from 1 June 2025.

If selected, will myself or my team receive any compensation from SXSW Sydney?

Each selected title will receive two (2) SXSW Sydney 2025 Pro Passes. If your team attends the event in person, you may request up to four (4) Pro Passes per submission. Successful developer teams will also have the option to purchase additional SXSW Sydney 2025 Pro Passes at the lowest rate. Selected applications will be provided booth build, signage, television and furniture at no cost.

If I am not selected, should I still come to SXSW Sydney?

Of course! There are many opportunities for game developers and games creatives beyond the Showcase. The SXSW Sydney Conference will feature mentor sessions, panel discussions, interviews, meet-and-greets, and countless other opportunities to network and take the next step in your career. If you are not successful in your submission to showcase at the SXSW Sydney 2025 Games Festival, you can purchase a Pass at the lowest rate and experience everything SXSW Sydney has to offer.

Can I apply if I showcased at SXSW Sydney 2023/4 Games Festival?

Yes! SXSW Sydney is accepting applications for games either released after 1 January 2024, or are currently unreleased. Projects that have previously been showcased at SXSW Sydney are still eligible for consideration provided they meet other requirements.

Can I apply with a VR title?

VR games can be accepted into either the Games Showcase or XR Showcase. VR titles accepted into the Games Showcase require a PC build and have some limitations on scale and play space. Please note you will only need to apply once to be considered for both showcases.

Can Students apply?

Absolutely! Students can apply with their games for the Tabletop Showcase. The Student Games Showcase will also take place during SXSW Sydney and is available to eligible universities. The Student Games Showcase runs independently from the Official Showcase and is organised directly with universities. If you wish for your university or college to be involved in the Student Showcase please contact gamesfest@sxswsydney.com

Games Festival Showcase

Games Festival Showcase

Deadlines for SXSW Sydney Games Festival Showcase

2025 FAQ

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