Back to Game Prime: Our Story
The city of Jakarta never really sleeps. Life, as it were, is at a fast pace, and there we were again at Baparekraf Game Prime 2024. It had taken five long years since we had an in-person exhibition like this, years defined by the pandemic and its forced shift to virtual reality. But here we were, with the thrill of the live event, reconnecting with a world that we had missed more than we ever thought.
Then, entering the Atrium at the Mall Taman Anggrek, one wave of nostalgia and joy swept us. SLAB was at booth number 17. We brought two games: our beloved “Where is My Cat?” and our latest title, “Metro Runner.” But this wasn’t about showing off our work; it was about something far more personal: connecting again to the community, the atmosphere, and how our games would resonate with people.
The last time we did this, the world was different. So were we. But as people began to gather around our booth, it would turn out some things are constant: the magic in watching a person pick up a controller, dive into a game, and just forget about everything outside doesn’t translate as well online. Smiles to see, laughter to hear, and sometimes frustration when a tough spot is reached reminded us why we do what we do.
The crowd was as varied as the content being showcased-kids full of wide-eyed wonder, teenagers pretending to be too cool for school, and adults who had been gaming since before it was socially acceptable-all united by the experience. Every little interaction was a gift, reminding us of the very human side of video gaming we had missed out on in the days gone by. Watching the engagements of various people with the worlds we create and seeing the glint of satisfaction when they solve some puzzle or complete a level-it’s the kind of feedback that just doesn’t fit into a spreadsheet.
But Game Prime was about so much more than just games. It was the people: old friends, new faces, and developers we hadn’t seen in years. Something special happens when you can get face to face, talk shop with folks who understand what it’s like to be in the trenches of game development. We shared stories, ideas and learned in a way that quite frankly you just can’t do out of town.
It was one parallel event: IWIG Level Up Ladies with AMD. It was not just a panel, really-it was a celebration of those wonder women who populate this industry. Hearing the stories of how that journey was for them-challenges-was just inspiring beyond words. These women are pushing boundaries, defying stereotypes, and showing the world what’s possible. Their courage and perseverance left a lasting impression on us, reminding us how important diversity and inclusion are in gaming.
The Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno also made his rounds during the expo. It was meaningful to have a government representative show interest in what we were doing-a simple visit yet recognition. This means a lot, and serves as a sign that what we do means something, and that we will be supported moving forward. There’s something really motivating about knowing the effort we put into our games means something to more than just the players.
But as powerful as those moments were, what stuck in our minds were the inconsequential events: the informal discussions, impromptu feedback, and giggling over coffee. These are the moments that define events like Game Prime. They help to remind us that at the core of gaming is a connection to ideas, stories, and most importantly, to one another.
By the end of it all, we were tired, yes; more than that, really, we had been rejuvenated with a sense of purpose. These two days had been a whirlwind, but they also helped us remember exactly why we got into this industry in the first place: not just to make games, but to be part of a community, to share experiences, and to grow together.
Still reeling from the buzz of the event, as we packed up our booth to leave, one thought came to mind: what brought us here. Five very different years for all, yet coming back to Game Prime proved one thing beyond any doubt: nothing replaces being there, feeling that energy, and being part of something bigger.
We depart from Jakarta with our hearts fully inspired and with a lot of great inspiration about what’s next. Game Prime 2024 wasn’t just a return to form-it was the first page of a new chapter. Ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead, continue creating, and stay connected with the community that makes it all worth it.
Herewith to Game Prime 2024, the people who made it special, and onward to the journey that lies ahead. We will see you out there.
Denpasar, 30th August 2024
https://slabgames.com/