The Game Devs of Color Expo took place this past week. This event marks its 9th annual celebration of amplifying the creative power of people of color in the gaming industry. Founded by Catt Small and Chris Algoo in 2016, the expo was designed to create a platform that highlights the innovation and talent of game developers from underrepresented backgrounds. Since 2020, the event has transitioned to an online-only format, further expanding its reach to a global audience.

What is the Game Devs of Color Expo?

The Game Devs of Color Expo (GDoCExpo) is a unique platform that not only showcases diverse games but also fosters growth and networking within the industry. The event features numerous opportunities for participants, including:

• Online Conference: Talks, panels, and interviews with industry experts.
• Networking Day: A day dedicated to connecting developers and industry professionals.
• Grant Award Ceremony: Celebrating and supporting developers of color.
• Live Chat & Digital Booths: Enabling real-time interaction with creators and companies.
• Job Board & Meetings: Offering career opportunities and mentorship.
• GDoCExpo Direct: A direct showcase of games created by developers of color.
• Steam Sale: A promotion featuring discounted games from the expo on Steam.

Game Highlights from the Expo

I had the pleasure of diving into some incredible games showcased at this year’s event, and I want to highlight a few standout titles that you should definitely keep on your radar!

Elsie

• Developer: Knight Shift Games
• Platforms: Steam, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch
• What is it? Elsie is a technicolor, rogue-like action-platformer filled with procedurally generated levels and a variety of weapons and items, making each run unique. You play as Elsie, a female android warrior created to save the planet Ekis from destruction. The game features intense, fast-paced combat inspired by classics like Mega Man.
• Why Play It? It’s a kinetic bullet-hell experience that’s both challenging and addictive. I’ve been playing this game on Steam and it’s a blast! The voice acting brings each character to life, making for an engaging and immersive experience.

Loddlenaut

• Developer: Moon Lagoon
• Platforms: Steam
• What is it? Loddlenaut is an underwater survival game where players take on the role of an interstellar custodian tasked with cleaning up a polluted ocean planet. Along the way, you’ll encounter adorable axolotl-like creatures known as “loddles,” and work to restore their environment.
• Why Play It? Its blend of cozy gameplay, environmental themes, and creature care makes it a unique and relaxing experience. Plus, the game’s origins as a thesis project turned full-fledged title is an inspiring story of creative ambition.

1000xResist

• Developer: Sunset Visitor
• Platforms: Steam
• What is it? In a post-apocalyptic future, 1000xResist places players in the shoes of Watcher, an underground survivor who serves the enigmatic ALLMOTHER. The game revolves around a gripping narrative, where uncovering a shocking truth changes everything.
• Why Play It? The development team behind 1000xResist brings a wealth of experience from various artistic disciplines, including dance, theatre, and music. Their dedication to storytelling and speculative fiction sets this game apart as a deeply immersive experience. It’s exciting to see more representation of Asian-Canadian creators in the gaming industry.

Tales of Kenzaru: Zau

• Developer: Surgent Studios
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
• What is it? This metroidvania-style game follows Zau, a spiritual healer on a journey to confront his emotions and overcome the grief of loss. The game’s narrative, shaped by actor Abubakar Salim, reflects deeply personal themes of love, loss, and healing.
• Why Play It? Abubakar Salim’s heartfelt connection to the project at the Video Game Awards, combined with the game’s rich world-building and emotional depth, makes Tales of Kenzaru: Zau a standout title for fans of story-driven action games.

The Importance of the Game Devs of Color Expo

The Game Devs of Color Expo is not just about showcasing games; it’s about providing a platform for underrepresented voices in the gaming industry. By focusing on creators of color, the event helps to push the industry toward greater diversity and inclusion. This year’s event continued to demonstrate the incredible talent and passion of developers from around the world.

The expo also provides developers with vital resources such as grant opportunities, a job board, and the chance to network with industry leaders. It’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the power of diverse storytelling.

Final Thoughts

The Game Devs of Color Expo 2024 was an inspiring display of talent, creativity, and community within the gaming industry. The games highlighted here are just a small sample of the incredible work being done by developers of color. From action-packed roguelikes to thoughtful narrative experiences, these titles demonstrate the wide range of stories and gameplay that are being created by these talented individuals.

If any of these games caught your eye, be sure to support the developers by checking them out on Steam or their respective platforms. The GDoCExpo is a reminder that diversity in game development enriches the gaming experience for all players, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for these amazing creators.

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