GameDev Summit (GDS) returned for its second year in Boracay, Philippines last February 5 – 8, 2025, with the support of The Philippines Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and in collaboration with the Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP).
Immaculate views of The Lind and Sea Wind Boracay served as a backdrop for key industry leaders, seasoned developers and rising talent as they engaged in discussions about the game development scene in Asia Pacific.
Sun, Sea And New Friends
The first day was dedicated to building connections and getting to know fellow attendees through none other than games—a language they knew best. People were invited to play Human Bingo to meet those in diverse backgrounds, and Common Grounds to find like-minded folk. There was Speed Networking where they must pitch themselves and their company in record time, and even a Murder Mystery Game to break the ice.
Premium Pass holders also had the opportunity to play Magic: The Gathering, and learn how to build giant sand sculptures. They were also invited to a Boodle Fight, a Filipino communal tradition of eating food spread over banana leaves with their hands. Not only did they get to have fun while learning about each other, the top three who scored the most points each won a prize.
At the end of the day, attendees gathered at the Sea Wind Boracay for the Welcome Reception, where a feast of Filipino cuisine and music awaited them.
A Diverse Lineup Of Talks, Discussions And Workshops
The summit featured inspirational keynotes about the journey through game development, conversations about the Southeast Asian region’s talent, and even open dialogues with members of the Philippine government on how to make the country a better space for indie developers. These talks were held across three different venues—at the Main Stage and Workshop Area at The Lind, and the Round Tables at the Sea Wind.
There was a space for everyone in the industry—from a business looking into collaborating with talent in the region, to aspiring developers showcasing their games with the hunger to grow. Diversity and inclusivity was a constant push, with messages on learning about the nuances of each other’s culture in order to communicate and work better together. There was even a Women @ GDS session which empowered and celebrated women creators and leaders in game development.
Building Connections At The B2B Exhibitor Floor
GDS 2025 made it possible for businesses with varying offerings to connect at the Exhibitor Floor. The space also had plenty of tables where professionals had their meetings and conversations about what they do.
An Exhibit of Skill In The Indie Demo Area & Developer Showcase
A cozy corner of The Lind housed the many indie games and their creators, marketers and producers through the entirety of the event. Here, attendees were invited to test and play the demos—some already up for sale on their respective gaming platforms, and some still in the works that will be released later on.
As people made their way from the entrance to the Main Stage for the keynotes and talks, they were greeted with the works of these developers at a scenic showcase.
A Call To Make Waves In The Gaming Industry
Throughout the event, game developers were urged to “Create More”. The talks from key leaders served as stepping stones to further refine their craft. The open dialogues with the Philippine government paved new paths on how to expand the gaming industry further. GameDev Summit’s banner to “Create More” seemed to refer to more than just the games. It’s to create more connections, more mentorship opportunities, and especially, more understanding and empathic spaces where inspired and rising talent can thrive.
Learn More About The GameDev Summit
Website: https://www.gamedevsummit.co
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GDSummitAsia
Twitter: https://x.com/gdsummitasia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gdsummitasia
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gdsummitasia
This article was contributed by HeraSays. Hera is a streamer and art director who enjoys playing and yapping about games, and obsessing over graphic design. You can follow her at Twitch, YouTube, Instagram, Tiktok, Twitter and Bluesky.
