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Games Festival SubmissionS 2025

Games Festival Showcase

Each year, the SXSW Sydney Games Festival curates new and upcoming games from exceptional, independent developers from all over the world. The selected games will be highlighted through in-person showcases, social media promotion and our Steam event page.

The cornerstone of the SXSW Sydney Games Festival, this curated collection of over 120 games gives developers the opportunity to showcase their work to thousands of industry professionals, media, creatives, and fans. Designed to showcase new and upcoming work from exceptional, independent games developers, the SXSW Sydney Games Showcase is a celebration and exploration of the creativity and potential of games.  

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.

Apply Now

Deadlines for SXSW Sydney Games Festival Showcase

Dates ‍
Items
30 January –  29 June
Submissions Open
30 June
Submissions Close – Rolling acceptances begin
01 July
Onboarding of Official Showcase begins
26 July
Official Showcase Lineup Announced
31 July
Final day for officially selected games to submit demos for inclusion in the Games Awards Longlist
31 August
Final day for officially selected games to provide builds for showcase
September
Final SXSW Sydney schedule announced

Games Showcase Frequently Asked Questions

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?
Absolutely! Students can 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.apply with their games for the Tabletop Showcase.
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 Games 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 features games that are developed as part of your course. 

If you wish for your university or college to be involved in the Student Showcase please contact gamesfest@sxswsydney.com

Students will be able to submit their work in March 2025.

Tabletop Games Showcase

Tabletop games are a testament to the power of creativity and community, bringing people together through shared stories, strategic challenges, and imaginative worlds. From intricate board games to captivating card games, these creations reflect the diversity and brilliance of the global tabletop community.

Each year, the SXSW Sydney Games Festival features innovative new games from outstanding independent developers worldwide. Selected tabletop games will be showcased through live, in-person events and highlighted across social media platforms.

Attendance for the Tabletop Games Showcase is required and all submitting applicants must be able to attend SXSW Sydney in person to exhibit their project. 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 and furniture at no cost to the participants.

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

Apply Now

Deadlines for SXSW Sydney Tabletop Games Showcase

Dates ‍
Items
1 February - 30 June 2025
Submission Showcase Open
1 June 2025
Rolling acceptances begin
1 July 2025
Onboarding of Official Showcase begins
26 July 2025
Official Showcase Lineup Announced
31 July 2025
Final day for officially selected games to submit demos for inclusion in the Games Awards Longlist
31 August 2025
Final day for officially selected games to provide builds for showcase
September 2025
Final SXSW Sydney schedule announced

tabletop showcase Frequently Asked Questions

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 to 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?
Attendance for the Tabletop Showcase is mandatory. Due to the nature of the Tabletop Showcase, it is critical that a team member is present to set up, bump out, troubleshoot and present the submission to the public. If your team cannot travel to SXSW Sydney, we encourage you to ask your networks in Sydney to attend in your place or hire staff for the duration of the Showcase.
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, gameplay 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 theTabletop Games Showcase.
How can I apply for the Game Awards?
All titles accepted into the Tabletop 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 Industry 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 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 features games that are developed as part of your course. 

you wish for your university or college to be involved in the Student Showcase please contact gamesfest@sxswsydney.com

Students will be able to submit their work in March 2025.

XR

The SXSW Sydney XR Showcase assembles projects from across the world that push the boundaries of Augmented, Virtual and Mixed Reality. Fusing cutting-edge technology with visionary design, this unique collection delves into innovative ways of interacting with the world, blending Tech, Screen, Music, and Games.

SXSW Sydney XR is an interactive experience that goes beyond traditional boundaries, inviting you to witness the evolution of how we engage with the world around us. We are on the lookout for immersive work that epitomizes creativity, ingenuity, and a forward-thinking approach to future technology, captivating and transporting audiences alike. From newly developed games, screen arts and entertaining experiences to pioneering simulation and training technology, we welcome submissions from all projects that harness AR, VR and MR.

Attendance for the XR Showcase is required and all submitting applicants must be able to attend SXSW Sydney in person to exhibit their project. Successful applicants will be notified after the submission platform closes 31 May 2025. All selected projects will be provided two (2) Industry Passes to attend SXSW Sydney 2025.

The XR 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. Pass holders are welcome to attend any range of events that take place across the program including the Conference, Games, Music, Screen Festivals and Technology & Innovation Expo.

The XR Showcase will be held during SXSW Sydney on 13-19 October 2025.

Apply Now

xr showcase Frequently Asked Questions

How are projects chosen for the XR Showcase?
SXSW Sydney XR Showcase is an interactive experience that highlights work that pushes boundaries and redefines our perception of reality. Projects are evaluated on their creativity, technicality, immersion, innovation, user experience, interactivity and purpose. Each 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
What are the categories for submissions?
SXSW Sydney is accepting applications for immersive projects using virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR). We welcome submission for XR experiences that encompass both fiction and nonfiction work across the games, music, screen & tech industries that are leveraging technology and the surrounding physical environment. If you are unsure if your project fits this description, please contact the XR Team at xr@sydney.com.au
Do I need to attend if I am selected?
Attendance for the XR Showcase is mandatory. Due to the nature of the XR Showcase, it is critical that a team member is present to set up, bump out, troubleshoot and present the submission to the public. If your team cannot travel to SXSW Sydney, we encourage you to ask your networks in Sydney to attend in your place or hire staff for the duration of the Showcase.
How can I apply for the XR Awards?
All projects accepted into the XR Showcase are eligible for the XR Award. All judging will take place during the showcase.
When will I find out if my project 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 SXSW Sydney 2025 Industry Passes. Successful teams will also have the option to purchase additional SXSW Sydney 2025 Industry Passes at the lowest rate. Successful applicants will also receive a booth space at no cost to the applicant.
If I am not selected, should I still come to SXSW Sydney?
Of course! The SXSW Sydney Conference and Festivals will feature mentor sessions, panel discussions, interviews, meet-and-greets, and countless other opportunities to network and take the next step in your career.
Can I apply if I showcased at SXSW Sydney 2023/4 XR Showcase?
Yes!. Projects that have previously been showcased at SXSW Sydney are still eligible for consideration provided they meet other requirements.

Conference Tracks

2050
2050 programming is long range and forward looking offering a glimpse into our future or possible futures. Featuring the latest scientific and technological advancements such as life extension research, nanotech and quantum breakthroughs, interplanetary travel and habitation, and other innovations that continue to shape our world.
Advertising & Marketing
Hear from leading agencies across the Asia Pacific and globally on the power and impact of brands, and uncover strategies to engage audiences through traditional, digital and experiential marketing. These sessions are geared towards agencies, in-house teams and organisations that want to explore new ways to connect with their communities.
AI & Robotics
Discover the expansion of AI across all industries and the coming wave. Sessions in this track may also explore regulation, ethics, misinformation, cyber & data privacy, the impact of AI on an evolving workforce and the integration of AI & robotics.
Creator Economy
Hear from key opinion leaders, agencies and content creators on the trends, tools, and monetisation strategies fuelling the creator economy. From how to build communities and brands, to the opportunities and challenges that come with this shift in how people work and connect.
Culture, Society & Media
From local to global, our collective interactions, engagements and experiences give our lives meaning, influencing how communities function and individuals thrive. Programming explores the dynamic interplay of culture, communities, government, and the policy directions that impact us all.
Cyber & Your Data
Programming in this track examines the critical measures and practices designed to protect our sensitive information, and to ensure the integrity of digital systems. Topics span deepfakes, cyber threats, employee training and risk management, encryption and the future of security technologies.
Design
The designers, developers, architects, and creatives who build our physical, digital and virtual worlds, with an emphasis on design's role in fostering innovation and addressing complex challenges.
Education & Skills
Bringing together educators, industry professionals and thought leaders on the future of education and EdTech. This track explores evolving approaches in learning, from personalised learning experiences, microlearning, recruitment and workplace training, to the impact of emerging technologies across the sector.
Energy, Climate & Sustainability
Explore the latest innovations, solutions, and approaches to building a sustainable and resilient future. Programming focuses on the energy sector, including alternative and renewable energy sources, ClimateTech, and promising ideas on mitigating (and living with) the effects of climate change.
Fashion, Lifestyle & Beauty
A dynamic and ever-evolving sector, encompassing a wide range of people, styles, trends & products. From research, design and manufacturing, to logistics, retail and end-use, explore how we experience and engage with these industries and their impact on our lives.
Food
Hear from chefs, growers, creators, and tech innovators transforming the food industry and explore how we will grow, prepare, and experience food. Bringing together the brightest minds in the food industry across production, technology, agriculture, distribution, retail, and consumption.
Future of Work
With a focus on the evolution of when, where, and how we work, programming explores the changing nature of societal expectations, remote collaboration, physical workspaces, technological advancements, and the impact of these changes on individuals, organisations, and communities.
Games Industry
With the games industry's continued rise as a dominant entertainment platform, programming explores its integration across industries including new technologies, e-commerce, entertainment, social media investment opportunities and Esports.
Health & MedTech
Health & MedTech sessions explore the latest advances in healthcare, improving patient outcomes, and driving technical innovation in the medical field, from gene editing technologies, through to personalised medicine, psychedelics and mental health outcomes.
Money, Markets & FinTech
Programming examines the influences impacting a tech-driven global economy, including the changes and challenges to our systems of commerce, AI, economic trends, the evolution of financial services, the dynamics of crypto, inflation, supply chains and other disruptions in our world.
Music Industry
Explore how technology continues to re-invent how we create, discover, distribute, promote and experience music. Hear from leading figures across the industry, including artists, record labels, brands, streaming platforms, and live events on the enduring power of music to shape culture. Programming also offers professional development, touring and career guidance.
Screen Industry
The creative and business processes behind creating screen, episodic & self-produced content. Hear from iconic creatives including producers, directors, and actors; and explore current and future trends in audience engagement, screen technology, distribution, financing and streaming platforms in this ever-changing industry.
Sports Industry
From icons to innovators, discover the breakthroughs in technology, biometrics, data analysis, fan experiences, brands, health, revenue streams, media and sponsorship that continue to reshape this global industry.
Startups
These sessions will feature the brightest new entrepreneurial ideas, unexpected founders, funders, success stories and epic failures that make up the experience of launching a new venture.
Technology: Presented by CommBank
Technology sessions delve into the people, platforms and technological solutions creating the next wave of change. This track will explore emerging and existing technologies, with a focus on growth across the Asia Pacific as well as Australia and global players.
Transport & Smart Cities
Tackle the technological advances transforming transport and the development of smart cities. With a focus on electric and autonomous vehicles, sessions can also explore digital grids, aviation breakthroughs, commercial space travel, shipping technology, high speed rail, alternative fuels, and new ideas in micro-mobility.
Travel & Leisure
Discover the destinations and new experiences that have become increasingly popular as well as emerging trends, breakthrough technologies and challenges these industries continue to face.
XR & Metaverse
Explore the latest developments in immersive technologies, from virtual and augmented realities to digital identities and the metaverse. Sessions navigate the potential of these mind-bending experiences across industries - from healthcare to entertainment - through new software and hardware technologies.

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