Whilst we gear up for our next event in Barnsley (more on that here), we had to share with you about the amazing time we had at Dundee in September during our full-capacity, completely free festival.

Get Into Games is our free careers festival designed to bring local studios, educators, and young people together for a full day of inspiration, hands‑on learning, and real talk about what it takes to build a creative career in games. By touring multiple cities, we’re able to inspire thousands of young people every year to learn about the world of creating games, without the added cost of travel and ticket entry.

Attendees had the opportunity to talk to real developers, such as local indie studio Spike Candy Games who were there to share their latest game, Floppy Cat Café.

"Having been students ourselves, we loved paying back to the aspiring and young developers with advice we've picked up over the years across college, university and to now running an indie studio.

"One of the biggest barriers we have found in our careers is imposters syndrome and with that said, it was a privilege to reassure the younger developers that its normal to feel underqualified and that getting stuck in is the best way to learn game development. Engaging with games meetups with likeminded passionate people and game jams are your friend!" - Spike Candy Games

We were thrilled at how the whole day went. Inspirational talks and 1-2-1 opportunities meant incredible volunteers offering their insights. The expo was buzzing with positive energy, with folks everywhere chatting and networking - and of course, playing games.

Reading attendees responses to the events has been heartwarming to read. Take a look at just a few of them:

“As a Game Development student I often find it very difficult and intimidating to interact with the industry, so seeing so many people who have done, and are doing, what I want to do really inspired me.” - Attendee, shared on LinkedIn

“So many fun games, industry insights and new people!” - Attendee, shared on LinkedIn

“A lot of insight and knowledge was shared especially during the 1-2-1 meetings and talks. There were also lots of great games being showcased that are definitely worth keeping an eye on and supporting.” - Attendee, shared on LinkedIn

Of course, none of the success of the day could have been achieved without our incredible sponsors. A huge thank you goes out to creative media educator SAE Institute, who have closely partnered with Into Games to create a positive impact through all our Get Into Games Events.

"Getting into games can feel like a closed door if you don't know where to start, and that's why events like Get Into Games Dundee matter. We were glad to support Into Games in giving young people the chance to meet people working in the industry, ask real questions and see the range of roles out there. On our Games programme, students learn by working on real briefs with industry partners, so opening those doors early is something we really believe in." Nathan Flannery, Programme Leader for Games at SAE UK

Alongside SAE, we’d also like to give a big shout out to Ubisoft Reflections, Creative Scotland, Ninja Kiwi, and Outplay; each of these companies are supporting the mission to bring local opportunities to young people in Dundee.

Now, we can’t rest on our laurels! We are full steam ahead to bring the festival to Barnsley on Sunday 25th October, working hard to give locals the same amazing experience. Grab your tickets today