GDC 2023: Dates, News, Announcements, Rumors, and More

The Game Developer's Conference aka GDC is exactly what it sounds like: A gathering of game developers where problems are solved, ideas are exchanged, and the future of gaming is inspired by the conversations of programmers, artists, and others who actually build and market the games the rest of us play.

What Are the Dates of the Next Game Developers Conference?

We don't yet know when GDC 2023 will happen.

GDC 2022 took place from March 21-25. It was a hybrid event: Some activities occurred on-site in San Francisco, while others happened online.

GDC Registration Info

There are various pass options (All Access, Audio-specific, Career Development, etc.), so visit the Passes & Prices page to get more details.

What Will Be Announced at GDC?

Products and major industry announcements aren't typical at GDC. The conference aims to exchange ideas and help all those involved in game creation connect through workshops and industry talks.

However, a product announcement is not entirely out of the question. Microsoft, for example, announced the original Xbox console at GDC in 2000. It's a long shot, but some rumors were floating that Nintendo would announce an expected new iteration of the Switch at the last GDC. That didn't happen, but the talk will keep flying until the event occurs.

Instead, watch for developer opportunities. For example, a company might announce a new partnership impacting how developers create games. Google for Games announced its partnership with Activision Blizzard in 2020, too.

The following video is an excellent example of a GDC workshop. In this 2018 GDC talk, Ubisoft's David Monroe shows developers how to make great art to greet players before beginning their journey with a game.

The Independent Games Festival

Part of the fun at GDC is a festival that showcases independent games and their creators. The festival accepted entries for all 2022 IGF categories until October 12, 2021, and announced finalists in early January.

Industry peers choose the finalists, making the festival particularly meaningful for developers. Categories include Excellence in Visual Art, Excellence in Audio, Excellence in Design, Excellence in Narrative, and Best Student Game.

How to Stream and Watch GDC

This event requires registration to obtain the streaming links and access codes. Visit the GDC conference website for the latest information.

The Latest GDC News

While you can always read the latest gaming news on Lifewire, here are some pieces of interest about GDC in particular.

We'll have more GDC news as it becomes available. Stay tuned and check back here for the latest details!