The non-competitive segment aims to expand exposure for indie games and engage more audiences.
Category: Arts & Culture
The Busan Indie Connect Festival (BIC) 2026 has officially opened submissions for its non-competitive segment, Connect Pick, starting April 15 at 3 PM KST. The festival, organized by the city of Busan, the Busan Information Industry Promotion Agency, and the BIC organizing committee, is set to showcase a variety of indie games, allowing developers to reconnect with gamers and audiences alike.
Connect Pick is distinct from competitive categories as it focuses on broadening exhibition opportunities rather than judging entries. It allows for submissions of games that have been released for over a year or those that have previously participated in BIC exhibitions. This initiative is expected to provide developers with a wider platform to present their works, which may have already established a following.
The submission period lasts from April 15 to May 26, with both the opening and closing times set for 3 PM KST. Participants are required to submit a gameplay video link, which simplifies the application process by eliminating the need to provide a game build or a link to the release market. This approach is intended to lower the barriers for participation, encouraging a diverse range of developers to join the festival.
Unlike the general and rookie categories, where entries are evaluated by professional judges, selections for Connect Pick will be determined through votes from the BIC's official supporters, known as Big Connectors. This method aims to incorporate perspectives that resonate closely with gamers and attendees, ensuring that the chosen entries align with audience interests.
“Connect Pick is a way to showcase indie games in a manner distinct from award competitions, allowing for a fresh introduction of titles that may have been overlooked,” said Joo Seong-pil, the organizing committee chair. He expressed hope that this initiative would provide opportunities for games that have been on the market for some time or those that have previously been exhibited at BIC to engage with audiences once again.
As a non-competitive segment, Connect Pick will not be part of the award evaluation process. The organizing committee plans to operate this segment in a way that allows a wider array of works to meet and interact with attendees, enhancing the festival's inclusivity.
The selection results for Connect Pick are expected to be announced between the fourth week of June and the first week of July. This timeline allows the festival to build anticipation among participants and audiences alike.
BIC 2026 will host an online festival from August 7 to 28, followed by an offline event at BEXCO Hall 2 in Busan from August 14 to 16. This dual format aims to facilitate vibrant exchanges between domestic and international developers and gamers, creating a comprehensive platform for indie game culture.
With the indie game scene continually growing, BIC 2026's initiatives like Connect Pick are timely and relevant. They provide exposure for lesser-known titles and highlight the importance of community engagement in the gaming industry.
For more information about the submission process and festival details, interested parties can visit the official BIC website, which offers comprehensive guidelines and updates.
As the festival approaches, excitement builds around the potential for innovative indie games to capture the attention of a wider audience, marking another chapter in the evolution of the indie gaming community in South Korea.
In preparation for the festival, the BIC organizing committee emphasizes the importance of creating an accessible and engaging environment for both developers and gamers. This commitment reflects a growing recognition of indie games as a valuable part of the global gaming ecosystem.
Looking ahead, BIC 2026 a landmark event for indie gaming enthusiasts, developers, and supporters, setting the stage for meaningful interactions and discoveries within the indie game space. The festival showcases the creativity and innovation of indie developers and fosters a sense of community among gamers and creators alike.