Published
Creativity, innovation and ambition were on full display as students, graduates, industry professionals and aspiring developers from across the region gathered at DN Develop Conference 2026, hosted by University Campus Doncaster (UCDon). The event brought together some of the brightest minds in game development for a day of inspiration, collaboration and opportunity.
Now in its second year, the conference continues to grow in scale and impact, creating a space where emerging talent can connect directly with the professionals shaping the future of the games industry. Attendees explored the latest developments in game design and development through expert talks, networking sessions and interactive showcases, gaining first-hand insight into one of the world’s most exciting and fast-moving sectors.
Learning from industry leaders
Leading studios including Cast Iron Games, Brickmouse, Sumo Digital, SlackJaw Games and Observer Interactive shared their experiences, industry expertise and career advice, offering invaluable guidance to those looking to take their first steps into the industry.
Showcasing talent and building careers
The conference wasn’t just about hearing from industry experts. Attendees had the chance to put their own work in the spotlight, with professional portfolio reviews delivered by Snappy Gurus, helping aspiring developers gain invaluable career advice and industry feedback. Across the venue, visitors explored game demonstrations from Ceratops Games, Canalside Studios, and UCDon alumni showcasing everything from innovative indie projects to emerging commercial titles. Together, these experiences highlighted the creativity, passion and ambition driving the next generation of game development talent.
Creating meaningful industry connections
James Cotterill, Curriculum Leader for Teacher Training & Game Development at UCDon, said: “DN Develop Conference demonstrates the strength and vibrancy of the games industry while creating meaningful opportunities for our students to engage directly with professionals working in the sector. By bringing together education and industry, we are helping aspiring developers gain valuable insights into career pathways, professional practice and the skills needed to succeed in this dynamic field. We are grateful to all our speakers, exhibitors and partners for sharing their expertise and inspiring the next generation of games professionals.”
Ben Paramore, Lecturer for Game Development and lead organiser of the conference, added: “It was fantastic to welcome such a diverse mix of students, graduates, tutors from across the region and industry representatives to this year’s event. The enthusiasm, creativity and engagement on display throughout the day reflected the exciting future of the games sector. DN Develop Conference is about creating connections, sharing knowledge and showcasing talent. Seeing attendees networking with professionals, exploring new opportunities and gaining first-hand industry insight made the event a tremendous success.”
The future games workforce and DN Develop Conference 2027
Beyond the talks and showcases, the conference highlighted the power of collaboration between education and industry. By creating opportunities for students to learn directly from developers, studios and business leaders, UCDon is helping to nurture the next generation of creative and technical talent.
As the games sector continues to evolve, events such as DN Develop Conference play an increasingly important role in preparing students for the opportunities ahead while strengthening connections across the industry. Following another successful year, planning is already underway for DN Develop Conference 2027, with ambitions to welcome even more speakers, exhibitors and industry partners as the event continues to grow.
Interested in speaking, exhibiting or supporting DN Develop Conference 2027? The team would love to hear from you. Contact Ben Paramore to get involved.
