The Philippine GameDev Expo (PGDX) held last July 25-27, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center, is an annual gaming event that has steadily grown in the last three years. This year’s edition was jam-packed with talks and panels on game development, exhibitor booths, indie game demos, and tournaments for young and old alike.
Here is a rundown of what happened during this weekend:
A Platform for Local and Regional Talent
The Indie Game Stars section was one of the biggest highlights of the weekend. Upon entering the convention area, attendees were greeted with a slew of tables with laptops, phones, VR devices and controllers. Large artwork adorned each exhibit, giving glimpses of the varying art styles and genres to expect. Students and developers from small studios introduced their game, with some even showing off their merchandise.
PGDX putting these indie game booths at the forefront of the event underlines their commitment to championing the wealth of talent in the Philippines and throughout the region.
Interactive and Fun Exhibits
There was no shortage of activities for attendees as each big exhibitor offered interactive experiences, as well as wares to sell. People competed in shooter games, went head-to-head in fighting games, and even sang their hearts out in karaoke battles.
A Gathering of Professionals and Mentors
Mentorship remained a vital part of PGDX. The event featured talks from professionals about the country’s progress and opportunities in game development, as well as a deep dive through insights shared by key leaders in the field.
Talks and presentations happened on the Main Stage for the general audience, but more pointed panels were held in the Workshop Area to discuss the important issues. All these tackled the state of the industry and the ways forward to better build up the people working in it.
Networking at the B2B Area
Professionals who wanted to connect with local and international businesses met at the B2B area, where they could also schedule one-on-one talks in designated spaces.
Exciting Tournaments and Competitions
The event had back-to-back tournaments and contests catering to collegiate esports teams, individual players, and cosplayers. This year, they even introduced Tito Gaming, a competition with retro games for the titos and titas (uncles and aunties). Electrifying commentary from the hosts and shoutcasters filled the halls alongside the cheers of the crowd.
A Space for Collectors and Art Appreciators
PGDX was also a haven for collectors and patrons of the arts. Inside the convention halls, booths carried merchandise like designed shirts, collectible figures, keycaps and more. The event also partnered once again with Sticky Expo PH to showcase local artists’ fan-made and original works.
Bringing the Gaming Community Together Year After Year
In a span of three years, the Philippine GameDev Expo has established itself as one of the premier events in the budding gaming industry in the country. It remains a much needed space where game developers can connect with game enthusiasts, where locals can meet international talents and facilitate a cultural exchange, and where people can just have fun as they celebrate a shared passion.
Follow the Socials of Philippine GameDev Expo:
- Facebook: facebook.com/pgdxofficial
- Instagram: instagram.com/pgdxofficial
- TikTok: tiktok.com/@pgdxofficial
- Website: www.pgdx.ph
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.
