New York City has become a hotbed for pioneering independent game developers whose unique artistic expression rarely gets the spotlight it deserves. We can change this by finding new ways to work together, creating a more cohesive and inclusive community in the process.
Our panel of four community leaders are passionate about this goal. Each has long-standing roots in the NYC game development scene yet brings a diverse set of perspectives that cover both the professional and academic realms. This meeting of the minds will discuss why NYC is a great place to make games, how we can work together to better support NYC game developers, and more.
Our Panelists:
Yiyi Zhang (GUMBO)
Kyra Wills-Umdenstock (EGD Collective)
Jess Haskins (NYC Indie Games Social)
Mattia Sicuro (IGDA NYC)
The panel is moderated by Tim Rattray, a writer and documentarian creating a docuseries on the NYC game development scene. A teaser of his team’s ongoing work will be shown here.
We thank the NYU Game Center for graciously hosting this independently run event. Come early to check out their Playtest Thursday event!
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, October 9th, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Place: NYU Game Center Theater — Lecture Hall 202 (370 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY)
Price: Donation (Recommmended: $10 | For a free ticket, use the code GAFREE)
After paying off the expenses for running this event independently [note: we've achieved this goal, thank you!], the remaining profits will be split among the organizations of our panelists represent (25%/per).
Following the panel, we’ll move to Evil Twin's DUMBO taproom (43 Main St.) to socialize and network. All ages are welcome.
For any questions and inquiries, email Tim Rattray (tim.rattray@me.com).
Also, a huge thank you to Krysti Pryde (Playcrafting) for creating the poster and banner art!
Our Partners:
NYU Game Center
Playcrafting
Game Devs of Color Expo
Wonderville
Produced By:
Tim Rattray, Nicole Papadopoulos, & PolyMedia Productions
