ABOUT GAME DEV SESSIONS
Game Dev Sessions was conceived and created by Tiago Colaço as a focused platform for meaningful exchange within the game industry. Since its first edition in 2023, the objective has remained consistent: elevate professional discourse around craft, production, and sustainable creative leadership.
Under his strategic direction and curatorial framework, the conference brings together experienced practitioners, studio decision-makers, and highly motivated developers in an environment designed for depth rather than volume. Talks, panels, and workshops are selected based on production relevance, craft expertise, and practical applicability to contemporary development contexts.
Across successive editions, the event has expanded in scale, structure, and ambition, reinforcing its positioning as a professionally oriented industry gathering in Portugal with a progressively strengthening international outlook.
Game Dev Sessions operates with institutional support from Obitec – Parque Tecnológico de Óbidos, within the Óbidos Vila Gaming initiative. This collaboration provides infrastructure and ecosystem integration, while strategic direction, vision, and programming decisions remain independently defined under its founder.

OUR MISSION
Game Dev Sessions is more than just a conference, it’s a platform for learning, collaboration, and innovation. Our mission is to:
- Empower Developers – Provide game developers with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration they need to push creative boundaries.
- Foster Industry Growth – Strengthen the game development ecosystem by connecting professionals across different fields.
- Celebrate Creativity – Showcase groundbreaking work and explore new approaches to storytelling, design, and technology in games.
We believe in creating an inclusive space where developers at all levels can learn from each other, share their experiences, and collectively shape the future of gaming.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Game Dev Sessions offers a rich program packed with valuable insights and opportunities. Attendees can look forward to:
- Expert-Led Talks & Panels – Gain insights from industry veterans, game designers, programmers, and artists as they share their knowledge and experiences.
- Hands-On Workshops – Participate in interactive sessions to refine your skills and explore new development techniques.
- Networking Opportunities – Connect with fellow developers, potential collaborators, and industry leaders through structured meetups and social events.
- Indie & AAA Showcases – Discover new projects from indie developers and established studios alike, and learn about the creative processes behind them.
- Career Development – Receive guidance on breaking into the industry, securing funding, and growing your game development career.
Join us at Game Dev Sessions and be part of a thriving community that celebrates the passion and innovation behind game creation!
TARGET AUDIENCE – GAME DEV SESSIONS 2025
The Game Dev Sessions 2025 is designed for a diverse audience of game industry professionals, aspiring developers, students, and enthusiasts, aligning with the latest industry insights from APVP (Associação Portuguesa de Videojogos) and IGDA (International Game Developers Association). So who attends?
GAME INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS
- Developers, artists, designers, and producers from independent studios, AA, and AAA companies.
- Professionals looking to expand their skills, network, and discover new career opportunities.
STUDENT & EMERGING TALENT
- University and technical school students in game design, programming, art, animation, sound design, and business.
- Young professionals entering the industry, looking for guidance, networking, and portfolio-building opportunities.
INDIE DEVELOPERS & STARTUPS
- Small teams and solo developers aiming to learn from industry experts, showcase their work, and connect with publishers and investors.
- Entrepreneurs looking for insights on funding, marketing, and business development.
ACADEMICS & RESEARCHERS
- Professors, researchers, and educators specializing in game studies, interactive media, and emerging technologies.
- Institutions aiming to bridge the gap between academia and the industry.
BUSINESS & PUBLISHING PROFESSIONALS
- Investors, publishers, and business strategists seeking new talent, innovative projects, and market trends.
- Companies looking to expand their reach within the Portuguese and international gaming ecosystem.
INDUSTRY ALIGNMENT
WITH APVP & IGDA TRENDS
According to the latest reports from APVP and IGDA, the game development workforce is increasingly diverse, with a growing number of independent developers, an emphasis on remote and hybrid work models, and a strong focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and emerging technologies (AI, VR, blockchain, and cloud gaming).
The Game Dev Sessions 2025 reflects these trends by fostering networking opportunities, providing up-to-date industry insights, and creating a space for learning, collaboration, and innovation.
Whether you’re an industry veteran, a student looking to break in, or an indie developer aiming to make an impact, Game Dev Sessions 2025 is the place to be.
