Pocket Gamer Connects London to Celebrate 10th Anniversary with Very Big Indie Pitch
Pocket Gamer Connects London, the leading mobile gaming conference, is returning on January 22nd-23rd, 2024 to celebrate its 10th anniversary. As part of the celebrations, the flagship Very Big Indie Pitch will also make a comeback, offering developers the opportunity to showcase their games and receive valuable feedback and prizes.
A Special Interview Series with Successful Developers
In honor of the 10th anniversary, Pocket Gamer Connects London will feature a series of interviews with some of the most successful developers who have participated in the Very Big Indie Pitch. The interviews will explore their journey, the benefits they gained from pitching, and their advice for future participants in the 2024 event.
Exclusive Insights from Sophia Aubrey Drake
In anticipation of the anniversary event, PocketGamer.Biz will release regular instalments of an interview series, starting with an exclusive interview with Sophia Aubrey Drake, the manager of the Big Indie Pitch. Sophia will share her experiences with the indie community and offer valuable advice for indie developers.
Sophia Aubrey Drake’s Journey in Indie Games
In an insightful conversation, Sophia Aubrey Drake talks about her extensive background in indie games. She reveals her passion for video games and her experience as a judge and mentor. Sophia shares her favorite indie games and highlights their significance in the gaming industry.
The Challenges of Managing the Big Indie Pitch
Managing the Big Indie Pitch comes with its own set of challenges. Sophia shares two major challenges she faces – coordinating developers and judges to ensure a smooth pitch process, and translating the feedback received into actionable insights for the developers. Despite the challenges, Sophia finds immense joy in her role.
The Impact of the Big Indie Pitch on the Indie Game Development Community
The Big Indie Pitch has made a significant impact on the indie game development community. Sophia receives numerous positive feedback and kind words about the pitch. Indie developers and industry professionals often approach her to express their interest and admiration for the event. The success stories of former Big Indie Pitch contestants also serve as a testament to its influence.
Standout Games and Memorable Experiences
Sophia highlights some standout games that left a lasting impression on her. Among them are What The Golf! by Triband and You Suck At Parking by Happy Volcano, both of which went on to win Big Indie Awards. She also mentions Zombie Soup, a humorous 80s-inspired twin-stick shooter, and MaoMaoCastle, a retro-inspired title that preserves classic gameplay styles.
Key Milestones in the Big Indie Pitch’s Journey
The Big Indie Pitch has evolved significantly over the years. It expanded from being exclusively hosted at Pocket Gamer Connects to being a part of various international events, including those in Los Angeles, Tallinn, and G-STAR in South Korea. The pitch’s ability to adapt and reach developers worldwide showcases its growth and impact.
Adapting to Changing Trends in Indie Game Development
The Big Indie Pitch has continuously adapted to reflect changing trends in indie game development. It started primarily focused on mobile platforms but now includes PC, console, Hypercasual, and VR/XR editions. This evolution ensures that developers have the opportunity to showcase their games across different platforms.
Expert Advice for Aspiring Indie Developers
Sophia provides essential advice for indie developers aiming to participate in future pitches:
- Stay positive and confident during the pitch, as everyone involved wants to discover the best of what developers have to offer.
- Showcase a working build of the game and let the judges play it for maximum impact. Talking about the game while they experience it creates a lasting impression and leads to more helpful feedback.
- Network and connect with judges, fellow developers, and industry professionals. Building genuine connections and maintaining contact can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations in the future.
The article concludes by inviting developers to submit their games for The Very Big Indie Pitch at Pocket Gamer Connects London 2024 and provides links for more information and ticket purchase.