One of the biggest events in the Scottish gaming industry calendar, PLAY Expo, has announced it will dedicate an entire corner of the 2018 event to independent gaming talent – giving Scotland’s up-and-coming developers prime real estate at the event.

The dedicated 600 sq. ft “Indie Zone”  will offer indie developers the opportunity to showcase their innovative work to more than 4000 people during the two-day event in Glasgow.

PLAY Expo 2018

PLAY Expo is the largest gaming industry gathering in Scotland, with the two-day event drawing thousands of developers, industry figures and enthusiasts. Although this years event is focusing heavily on up-and-coming talent, the Indie Zone will also give gamers the chance to play some golden oldies that kick started the indie gaming revolution, such as Braid, Fez and Super Meat Boy and also several highly popular four-player games including Rocket League and Ultimate Chicken Horse.

The event is open to all, attracting both adults and children alike and will boast a Cosplay stage, competitive team tournaments, brought to you by local gaming community Versus Scotland as well as a selection of awesome pinball machines courtesy of the Scottish Pinball Association.

An Industry on the Rise

The Scottish games industry is a vibrant sector with a long-standing reputation for innovation and creativity. A recent report by the umbrella body for videogames developers, TIGA, revealed that Scotland is the third largest cluster in the UK, eclipsed only by London and the South East of England. Additionally, the sector has grown by a staggering 27% in under two years – signalling a growing confidence in the ability of developers north of the border.

Andy Brown, MD of Replay Events, and the organiser behind PLAY Expo highlighted the need to showcase innovation in the Scottish games industry – one that is on the rise and in need of financial support at a grassroots level.

He said: “The independent gaming scene in Scotland is incredibly dynamic and never fails to impress us with the new developments and experiences. However, like in every creative industry – from film to fashion – independents need support and financial relief at grassroots level.”

Brian Baglow, Founder and Director of Scottish Games Network, echoed Brown’s comments, insisting that indie developers need an open environment to showcase their ideas: “As competition in the indie games market intensifies, it’s becoming ever more important for indie developers to take the opportunity to showcase, market and promote their games to a consumer audience.”

“Giving players the chance to get their hands on with your game and getting real-time feedback from an audience of gamers is incredibly valuable.”

Tickets for PLAY Expo Glasgow are available now priced from £10 (child) & £15 (adult).