Posted: 5 December 2024
Wakefield’s WX became the epicentre of the indie gaming world on Thursday 21st November 2024, as over 450 developers gathered for the largest indie game developer event in Northern England. The occasion, a combination of the GaMaYo showcase and the prestigious Game Republic Awards, featured an impressive display of creativity with 45 new games unveiled.
Among the exhibitors were University Campus Doncaster (UCDon) Level 5 HND Games Development students Connor Jackson and Stephen Ryan, whose work stood alongside some of the most exciting indie projects in the region.
A platform for aspiring Developers
“GaMaYo events and our Game Republic links are huge opportunities for our students” said UCDon Games Development course leader James Cotterill, reflecting on the importance of the event for aspiring developers. “It’s not just about showcasing their work; it’s about connecting with industry leaders and understanding the landscape they will be entering once they graduate.”
Stephen echoed his sentiments, describing the showcase as a pivotal moment in both his and Connor’s careers. “We had the privilege to meet developers from across the region and present our game. Events like these are a gateway to the industry for students like us,” he said.
Science Labs: A game with potential
Science Labs, their featured project, is a physics-based puzzle and arcade game with a playful yet challenging design. Connor, the game’s Technical Designer, focused on mechanics, controls, and interactions, ensuring a seamless user experience. Stephen, who served as the Technical Artist and Environment Artist, brought the game to life with visually optimised environments, shaders, and special effects.
The game has already attracted the interest of publishers and industry professionals. “Our lecturers, all with vast industry experience, believe Science Labs has strong market potential,” noted Stephen. The duo are now working on completing a vertical slice of the game, which features one or two polished levels, as they prepare to launch a Steam page to further their development efforts.
A future bright with opportunity
The GaMaYo Showcase and Game Republic Awards proved to be more than just a networking event. They were a testament to the region’s growing prominence in the indie gaming world and a launchpad for fresh talent.
For Connor and Stephen, the event underscored the importance of dedication and collaboration. “From game jams to showcases, every step has prepared us for this,” said Connor. “We’re excited about the possibilities ahead and hope this project gets our names on the radar.”
