Story perspectives

GDC Festival Attracts 20,000 Despite Attendance Decline

3/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

The GDC Festival of Gaming in San Francisco drew 20,000 attendees from 85 countries, March 9–13, 2026.
Event featured a rebranding and pricing overhaul aimed at accessibility.
GDC President Nina Brown noted turnout despite last year's nearly 30,000 attendees, a 33% decline.
The conference included over 700 sessions and 1,100 speakers, creating a vibrant networking atmosphere.
Festival will return to Moscone Center March 1–5, 2027, with submissions opening July 2026.

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Story summary

The GDC Festival of Gaming in San Francisco drew 20,000 attendees from 85 countries, March 9–13, 2026.
Event featured a rebranding and pricing overhaul aimed at accessibility.
GDC President Nina Brown noted turnout despite last year's nearly 30,000 attendees, a 33% decline.
The conference included over 700 sessions and 1,100 speakers, creating a vibrant networking atmosphere.
Festival will return to Moscone Center March 1–5, 2027, with submissions opening July 2026.