IGDX 2024: A Journey into Gaming’s Future

IGDX 2024 in Bali

It was a warm October morning in Bali, and I found myself standing outside the Indonesia Game Developer Exchange (IGDX) Business & Conference 2024 venue at The Stones, Kuta, Bali. The air was alive with anticipation. Over the next three days from 10–12 October 2024, this place would become a meeting ground for gamers, developers, publishers, artists, investors, and policymakers. It wasn’t just another industry event — it felt like a celebration of Indonesia’s gaming spirit, a community of dreamers and doers coming together to share their passion and push boundaries.

IGDX 2024 Business Matching

What struck me first was the energy of the B2B matchmaking sessions. Imagine developers with laptops in hand and big dreams in their hearts, sitting across from publishers and investors who could bring those dreams to life. These weren’t just business meetings; they were moments of possibility. I could feel the sparks of connection in the air as ideas were exchanged and partnerships started to form. It felt like witnessing the birth of something great.

IGDX 2024 Game Exhibition

Then there was the indie booth showcase. Walking through it felt like stepping into an art gallery. Each game was a journey, and every developer had a story to tell. I spent hours trying out indie games, talking to their creators, and hearing about the sleepless nights and small victories that had shaped their journeys. These games weren’t just entertainment but pieces of the developers’ lives, crafted with care and determination.What struck me first was the energy of the B2B matchmaking sessions. Imagine developers with laptops in hand and big dreams in their hearts, sitting across from publishers and investors who could bring those dreams to life. These weren’t just business meetings; they were moments of possibility. I could feel the sparks of connection in the air as ideas were exchanged and partnerships started to form. It felt like witnessing the birth of something great.

SLAB pitching our games

IGDX isn’t just about this three-day event. It culminates in continuous efforts to nurture Indonesia’s game development talent. Programs like IGDX Academy and IGDX Bootcamp play a huge role in this. The Academy is a six-month mentorship program where developers work with industry veterans to sharpen their skills and build their confidence. The Bootcamp, on the other hand, is a five-month intensive that equips aspiring developers with the technical skills they need to create games.

On IGDX Bootcamp, one of our team participated as program manager, and I had the opportunity to mentor the students. It was a deeply enriching experience for me. I learned so much about delivering knowledge and sharing my experiences smoothly. Beyond that, I connected with fresh talents brimming with creativity and potential. Seeing their progress was as fulfilling as contributing to it.

Women In Games

Outside the event, I found a special postcard in the goodie bag from “Indonesian Women in Game.” It was a thoughtful guide to creating safe spaces for women in the gaming industry. Written in Indonesian, it’s an essential read for anyone committed to inclusivity in this field. You can access it online here: bit.ly/pedomanruangramahperempuan

I had the chance to meet some of the participants from these programs. One developer shared how they started with just an idea and a product, and by the end, they had a working prototype and a newfound belief in themselves. Another participant shared how the Bootcamp’s challenges helped them grow, not just as a developer, but as a person. It was inspiring to see how much these programs had impacted their lives.

On IGDX Bootcamp, one of our team participated as program manager, and I had the opportunity to mentor the students. It was a deeply enriching experience for me. I learned so much about delivering knowledge and sharing my experiences smoothly. Beyond that, I connected with fresh talents brimming with creativity and potential. Seeing their progress was as fulfilling as contributing to it.

IGDX 2024 Conference

The panels and discussions on the final day were another highlight for me. Topics ranged from building sustainable game ecosystems to incorporating cultural identity into games. One session on expanding Indonesian game IPs into other media stood out in particular. The speakers didn’t just talk about theories; they shared real-life stories and practical advice. It was like getting a behind-the-scenes look at how great ideas are brought to life.

For those interested in marketing, the Google Play Academy Study Jam was a treasure trove of insights. It wasn’t just about how to position games on the Play Store; it was about learning the strategies to monetize them effectively. The advice was practical and actionable, making it clear that success isn’t just about creativity but also about understanding the market.

Indonesia Game Awards 2024 Winner

The Indonesia Game Awards was the perfect way to end the event. Coral Island, a charming farming sim by Stairway Games, stole the spotlight, winning Best Visual Art and Game of the Year. Other winners included DreadHaunt, which took home Best Audio/Soundtrack, and My Lovely Empress, celebrated for Best Narrative. The most anticipated game award went to Agni: Village of Calamity, a title that has already captured the attention of the industry. The excitement in the room was infectious, and I found myself eagerly awaiting its release.

But the truth of IGDX isn’t in the awards or the big names. It’s in the conversations that spark new ideas, the collaborations that take shape, and the shared belief that Indonesia’s gaming industry is on the verge of something extraordinary. The government’s support, through initiatives like Presidential Regulation №19 of 2024, adds momentum to this movement and reinforces its importance.

Bali Beach

As I walked away from the venue, the sun setting over Bali’s horizon, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. IGDX isn’t just an event; it’s a movement. It’s a place where creativity meets opportunity, where dreams take root, and where the future of gaming begins. If you’re even a little curious about the world of games, IGDX is an experience you won’t want to miss.