Once a small gathering in 2012, the Queensland Games Festival has blossomed into a major annual event that unites game developers across the state and showcases Queensland’s growing influence in the global game industry.
- QGF attendance expected to reach 3,000 in 2026
- Event highlights Queensland’s regional and city game development
- Strong community and local support sustain festival growth
What happened
The Queensland Games Festival, originally launched as the Game On Symposium in 2012, has demonstrated impressive growth over its 14-year history. Starting with around 200 attendees, the festival now anticipates 3,000 visitors for its 2026 edition, reflecting its rise as a key industry event in Queensland.
Organized by local game developers and supported by industry groups such as the International Game Developers Association's Brisbane chapter, QGF has become a vital gathering space to showcase Queensland-made games, including successes like "Unpacking" and "Fruit Ninja," while also promoting regional game development hubs across the state.
Why it matters
Queensland’s gaming sector historically lagged behind Sydney and Melbourne, but the festival’s growth highlights the state’s emerging status as a game development center. This is crucial for promoting local talent, encouraging collaboration, and increasing Queensland’s visibility on the global gaming map.
Given Queensland’s large geography and dispersed population, QGF’s efforts to involve developers from regional cities like Toowoomba, Townsville, Cairns, and Hervey Bay help foster inclusivity and diversity in the industry. It also demonstrates the strength and resilience of the local community, which supports the event both financially and culturally despite potential funding uncertainties.
What to watch next
The sustainability of QGF will depend on continued support from both government funding bodies, such as Screen Queensland, and private sector contributors including Gameloft Brisbane, as well as the ongoing enthusiasm and tenacity of the Queensland developer community.
Upcoming editions of the festival will be worth monitoring for their ability to further elevate regional developers and introduce innovative projects from Queensland studios onto national and international platforms, potentially driving Queensland’s reputation as a gaming hub well into the future.