Game developers pitch for funding at speed dating-style event in Melbourne

A speed dating-style event for game developers was held during Melbourne International Games Week. The event, called Play Now, allowed game developers from across the country to pitch their games to prospective publishers in an attempt to secure funding.

The event was set up with tables and screens, where pitch decks were presented and developers laid out their plans to make the next big hit. VicScreen CEO Caroline Pitcher said the event, now in its fourth year, is attracting international and local publishers searching for rare Australian talent.

Publishers choose the teams they are going to meet with, which breaks the ice and allows game developers to get right into the pitch. During a pitch, a developer will often deliver a small presentation about their game outlining their previous work, their current team, and what sort of funding they are looking for to finish their work.

The pitches can be nerve-wracking experiences, with last-minute bug fixes being patched on the couches surrounding the presentation tables. However, some pitches immediately click, with a joy of play evident as publisher scouts disappear into the game.