India Game Developer Conference Moves From Hyderabad to Chennai

The India Game Developer Conference (IGDC) will relocate from Hyderabad to Chennai this year. The three-day event, scheduled for November 5-7, 2025, at the Chennai Trade Centre, marks the end of a decade-long run in Hyderabad. 

IGDC has emerged as India's flagship industry gathering, drawing more than 5,000 developers, publishers, and investors annually. The conference encompasses five core components: awards recognition, an exhibition floor, an indie showcase for 40 emerging studios, a bring-your-own-game demonstration area, and its marquee Investor-Publisher Connect program.

IGDC has developed into India’s premier industry event in the AGVC sector, attracting more than 5,000 developers, publishers, and investors annually. The three-day conference features 5 main events: IGDC awards, I/P Connect, Expo, Indie 40, and BYOG, providing a multifaceted platform to connect startups and young talent with potential funders.

The conference's crown jewel remains its invitation-only Investor-Publisher Connect (I/P Connect) program, which provides one-on-one meetings among investors and publishers with studios and developers seeking growth and potential funders.

In the 2024 edition, roughly 100 investors and publishers attended the I/P connect program, reportedly attracting 70+ investments. Studio Sirah, creator of Kurukshetra: Ascension, also credited IGDC networking for initial traction.

The structured format addresses a persistent challenge in India's fragmented gaming landscape: connecting promising developers with appropriate funding sources and distribution partners.

While Hyderabad maintains its position as an established AVGC hub hosting over 140 gaming and animation companies, Chennai presents compelling advantages that influenced the relocation decision.

Tamil Nadu's government has positioned itself as gaming-industry friendly, hosting stakeholder meetings and the UMAGINE TN 2024 summit while offering targeted funding initiatives. The state's proactive approach contrasts with the more established, potentially saturated Hyderabad market.

Conference organizers anticipate the Chennai location will attract increased participation from southern Indian developers while maintaining appeal for international investors who view the region as an emerging market with untapped potential. The relocation reflects broader industry dynamics as gaming companies seek locations offering government support, cost advantages, and access to technical talent.