Publishing games in 2024: Is self-publishing the future?

TIME & LOCATION

Wednesday 13 November, 11:00 am

End Time: 12:00 pm

The Factory

About

As the video game industry faces another challenging year, the mantra of “Survive until 2025” has subtly shifted to “Survive until 2026,” signalling that it’s time to reevaluate our approaches.

In his talk, Simon Smith will explore these recent trends and discuss how the landscape of game publishing is changing. Drawing on his experience as a producer and former game scout, Simon will provide an insider’s perspective on what publishers are currently looking for, and how developers can adapt to meet those expectations. He will also delve into the growing potential of self-publishing as a viable path forward, offering hope and practical strategies for developers looking to take control of their projects in a shifting industry.

Chair

SPONSOR

Panel

Simon Smith

Executive Producer and CEO at thumbfood Ltd

Simon Smith is a veteran of the video game industry with over two decades of experience in production, business development, and publishing. Currently the Executive Producer and CEO at thumbfood Ltd., Simon is dedicated to helping indie developers bring their creative visions to life and making their games "publisher-ready." He has also served as a Senior Game Scout for Team17, helping discover and sign acclaimed titles like DREDGE and Before We Leave. Beyond his role at thumbfood, Simon is an active advocate for the video game community. He is the Chair of Gameopolis, a network aimed at connecting and promoting the Greater Manchester games industry, and has previously served on the BAFTA Games Committee. Simon's passion for the industry is rooted in fostering community, sharing knowledge, and empowering developers to take control of their own projects.

‎