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Calling all indie developers and industry experts: The spotlight is about to shine on the vibrant world of independent games once again. The 2025 Independent Games Festival Awards are gearing up, and we're seeking passionate judges to help recognize and celebrate the year's best indie games.
The Independent Games Festival is looking for journalists, academics, and game developers who are not submitting a game this year to be part of the judging body for the 2025 IGF Awards. You'll be responsible for judging somewhere on the order of 15 games from mid-October to mid-November.
We're also welcoming interest in jury participation. Jury members are a small, select group of industry experts who make the honorable mention, finalist, and winner selections. Keep in mind that anyone who was a judge for the 2024 IGF Awards and rated at least one game will be automatically invited back and does not need to submit an application.
The IGF Awards return to the 2025 Game Developers Conference at the Moscone Convention Center on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. It's part of the longest-running festival, summit, and awards showcase celebrating independent games and their creators.
The deadline to apply to be an IGF 2025 judge is Thursday October 10 at 11:59pm PT. The deadline to submit for the IGF 2025 jury is Thursday, November 7 at 11:59pm PT.
Please note that we can't guarantee all applications will be accepted: If you've been selected, you will receive an email when the judging process begins.
More information on the Independent Games Festival and GDC 2025 can be found on the website. If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to drop us an email at chairperson (at) igf.email. We look forward to welcoming new judges for IGF 2025!
GDC Showcase is back in 2024 with a focus on career development, and registration is now open! For more information, be sure to visit our website and follow the #GDCShowcase hashtag on social media.
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