LIVERPOOL’S GAMES INDUSTRY GEARS UP FOR LIV GAME SUMMIT

by Ian Hughes
30th April 2025

Liverpool’s thriving games community is about to level up.

Liv Game Summit Banner

Liv Game Summit Banner

Building on the momentum that has made Liverpool a nationally and internationally recognised games hub, the Liv Game Summit is set to become the Liverpool Game Dev Network’s biggest and most exciting event yet.

Launching on Thursday 5th June at BoxPark Liverpool, Liv Game Summit will bring together studios, educators, talent and communities from across the region for a day packed with connection, inspiration, and opportunity – all delivered with LGDN’s trademark warmth and inclusivity.

From Pub Meetups to Premier Summit

In just two and a half years, the Liverpool Game Dev Network (LGDN) has grown from small pub meetups and networking evenings, to developing its celebrated region-wide Spotlight Series, and now Liv Game Summit is the natural next step: a reflection of the Network’s development as the largest games industry network across Merseyside.

For the first time, LGDN is offering a full-day summit featuring portfolio reviews, provider stalls, panel discussions, a brand-new games showcase competition – and even a charity raffle. There’s something here for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned studio head or employee, indie developer, freelancer, student, or just someone passionate about the industry.

Partners Powering the Summit

Liv Game Summit is supported by some household local and national businesses, including LCR Growth Platform, Mastered, Lucid Games, Milky Tea, and Game Republic. Their involvement is a huge endorsement of Liverpool’s growing reputation as a major player in the UK’s creative and tech sectors.

“Having the collective involvement of our partners reflects a tangible commitment to developing Liverpool’s games ecosystem,” says Marek Smagala, Founder of LGDN. “The strength and depth of support shows just how far our industry here – and across the North – has come.”

What’s On?

Attendees can expect a jam-packed day:

  • Insightful Panels
    Key discussions will tackle hot topics such as publishing in today’s market, the rise of co-development business models, and how to strengthen the pathway between education and the games Guests include the likes of Sony, Devolver Digital, Lucid Games, Radical Forge and more
  • Games Showcase Competition
    Five talented teams, handpicked from 11 applicants, will demo their latest projects. Visitors can play, vote for their favourites, and help shine a spotlight on the region’s rising stars, with prizes including workshops and professional feedback sessions.
  • Portfolio Reviews
    Thanks to d3t and IN4 Group, attendees can book one-to-one portfolio review sessions, covering design, art, programming, and more – an invaluable opportunity to get expert advice directly from industry pros.
  • Charity Raffle
    In true LGDN spirit, the event also supports the local community. A charity raffle will be held in aid of YKids, a children’s charity based in Bootle.

A Sleeping Giant Awakens

Liverpool’s games industry is booming. From indie successes like Spray Paint Simulator by North Star Videogames to blockbuster contributions from studios like Lucid Games and d3t on Sea of Thieves and EA Sports FC 24, the city’s talent is diverse, ambitious and thriving.

There’s also a growing bond between education and industry, with initiatives like GameChangers reaching out to schools and colleges to inspire the next generation of game developers. Marek explains:

“The hard work of fantastic businesses across Liverpool has sparked real growth, There’s success everywhere you look.”

Liverpool on the National Stage

While Liv Game Summit puts local talent centre stage, it also positions Liverpool as a key player nationally. By partnering with organisations like Game Republic and welcoming attendees from across the UK, the Summit strengthens Liverpool’s voice in the national games industry conversation.

“This is about more than one event,” says Marek. “It’s about creating a space for collaboration, talent development, and business growth – and showing what Liverpool and the North has to offer.”

Join Us

Whether you’re looking to develop your industry network, enter the games industry, or grow your game studio, the message is simple: This is your space.

Come and connect with your peers. Get real feedback from experienced professionals. Be inspired. Help shape the future of games in Liverpool and beyond.

Don’t miss out – book your place now at Liv Game Summit and be part of the next chapter in Liverpool’s gaming success story.

BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE

Ian Hughes
Ian Hughes
Marketing Manager
30th April 2025