Hey everyone,
You know, GDC? It’s always been one of those “someday” dreams for me. And now, “someday” is here! I’m absolutely buzzing to be heading to GDC 2025 with the whole Second Quest crew.
How Did We Get Here? A Little Bit of Luck, A Lot of Heart, and the IGDA Foundation
Let me rewind a bit. Last year, I was incredibly fortunate to be part of the IGDA Foundation’s Virtual Exchange Program, with the Velocity cohort. It was a game-changer. That program, specifically designed to uplift underrepresented voices in our industry, gave me access to mentors and connections that have been instrumental in my transition into gaming.
And now, to be awarded a GDC pass by the IGDA Foundation? I feel immensely grateful, living my dream. I’m eager to connect with the other scholars, mentors who changed my perspective, and the industry veterans shaping the future of inclusive games.
Before GDC: A Powerful Conversation at GAFX
Ahead of GDC, Kinshuk and I represented Second Quest at the GAFX 2025 (An AVGC conference organised by the Government of Karnataka).
I had the incredible opportunity to be on a “Women in Gaming” panel at GAFX 2025. Sharing the stage with powerhouses like Laxmi, Vandana, and Namratha, moderated by Ritika, was truly inspiring. We talked about the real stuff: the challenges we face, the progress we’ve made, and how we can keep pushing for a more inclusive industry.
Kinshuk spoke about developing India’s growing indie scene and how it has evolved over the years in his panel discussion with Prashanth DG of Brewed Games. (We are super excited about their upcoming release – Winds of Arcana: Ruination. Visit them at GDC).
In another panel discussion on how AI is used in Game Development, Kinshuk spoke at length of how AI is an enabler and all the meaningful ways in which we are using AI at Second Quest.
Bharat Tech Triumph: Validation and Fuel
We recently won the Bharat Tech Triumph! It’s incredible to have our vision recognized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, DPIIT – Startup India, and WinZO. This win gives us a platform at the India Pavilion at GDC, along with travel sponsorship. It’s a huge boost and a reminder that we’re on the right track.
London Games Festival: The Adventure Continues!
As if GDC wasn’t enough, we’re also heading to the London Games Festival! This is another amazing chance to share our work and connect with the global gaming community.
And Finally, our first Sneak Peek!
Okay, now for the really exciting part! We’re finally ready to give you a sneak peek of our debut game! Since day one, our passion has been to create simulation experiences that truly resonate with players. And an important part of building these experiences is to build within our community of players.
On March 11th at 8 PM (IST), we will finally be showing early glimpses of our game (it’s just a prototype right now), and talk about our vision, approach and roadmap for it. This will also be the kickstart to building a community around the game.
You absolutely don’t want to miss this. Be there to be among the first to see what we’ve been working so hard on and join us in this journey!
Looking Forward: A Journey of Growth and Connection
From the IGDA Foundation’s Velocity cohort to GDC then London Games Festival and revealing our debut game, this journey has been a whirlwind of learning and growth. I’m so grateful for the support we’ve received from the global game development community.
If you’re at GDC or the London Games Festival, please say hi! I’d love to chat about our game, game development in India, or just share stories. Let’s make the most of these incredible opportunities to connect and push the boundaries of gaming together.
And don’t forget to tune in on March 11th for our YouTube livestream!
See you there!
Shagufta
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