#Japan #Chiba #indie games #CESA #Tokyo Game Show 2026

Supporting Indie Game Innovation: SELECTED INDIE 80

The Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (CESA), led by Chairman Haruhiro Tsujimoto, has recently unveiled the sponsors for a new initiative called SELECTED INDIE 80 at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show 2026. This initiative aims to foster a vibrant platform for indie game developers, providing them with an opportunity to thrive in the global gaming industry.

Sponsors Announced

Prominent names sponsoring this initiative include Nintendo and Kodansha as platinum sponsors; PLAYISM as a gold sponsor; iGi indie Game incubator as a silver sponsor; and CRI Middleware, Amakusa City as bronze sponsors. Additional support is provided by equipment sponsors Ask, Aulin, and WitOne. Through this network of sponsors, exhibitors selected for the SELECTED INDIE 80 program will receive various types of support for their participation.

These endorsements emphasize the Tokyo Game Show’s commitment to spotlighting indie game developers, providing them with a stage to showcase their creativity and innovation. The aim is not only to enhance opportunities for indie developers but also to invigorate the domestic and international gaming industries further.

If any companies are interested in supporting indie game development or related projects, they are encouraged to join as sponsors.

Introducing the SI80 Excellence Awards

In addition to securing sponsorship, the Tokyo Game Show will also introduce the SI80 Excellence Awards. This award seeks to recognize outstanding indie games selected in the SELECTED INDIE 80 initiative, evaluating their creativity, quality, and the unique experiences they offer. A total of around ten titles will be officially recognized during the show. The award winners are expected to be announced in August, culminating in an award ceremony during the event.

Exhibitors will be able to display award marks at their booths, allowing attendees, media, and industry professionals to easily identify and appreciate these notable titles. Importantly, this new initiative is distinct from the Sense of Wonder Night (SOWN), which focuses on showcasing creative ideas, thus expanding the evaluation metrics for indie games.

The aim is to capture the attention of attendees, media, and publishers, giving exceptional indie projects greater visibility and potential to enter the global market, ultimately enhancing the overall value of the Tokyo Game Show’s indie program.

About SELECTED INDIE 80

The SELECTED INDIE 80 is designed to support indie game developers, particularly individual creators and small studios. The program welcomes submissions from developers regardless of nationality, age, or profession, provided their projects meet the application criteria. Selected creators will have the opportunity to showcase their work for free at the Tokyo Game Show’s indie game corner with the backing of sponsoring companies. This initiative aims to unveil creations that embody the passion and original sensibilities of indie developers, thus creating new possibilities in the industry.

The submission deadline for SELECTED INDIE 80 is April 30, 2026, by 17:00 (Japan Time). Eighty titles will be selected based on the submitted proposals, allowing them to participate in the show and automatically enter the Sense of Wonder Night presentation contest. Developers are encouraged to submit their exciting titles.

Key Details of SELECTED INDIE 80

• - Event Name: SELECTED INDIE 80
• - Dates: September 17 to September 21, 2026
• - Location: Real venue at Makuhari Messe
• - Exhibition Fee: Free
• - Application Method: Via the dedicated entry form on the SELECTED INDIE 80 webpage
• - Submission Deadline: April 30, 2026, by 17:00 (Japan Time)
• - Selection Date: Results will be communicated via email by May 20, 2026

Eligibility Criteria

• - Must be available for a physical exhibition at Makuhari Messe (5 days)
• - Annual revenue should not exceed 50 million JPY or 500,000 USD for corporations or 10 million JPY or 100,000 USD for individuals
• - The exhibiting entity must be entirely independent if it is a corporation
• - All submitted works must be original games, and developers must hold development rights for their projects. They also should adhere to CESA ethical guidelines and not violate any other content regulations.

Conclusion

For inquiries or further details about the SELECTED INDIE 80 initiative, please reach out to the Tokyo Game Show Indie Game Office via email at [email protected] or visit the official website for more information.

The Tokyo Game Show 2026 promises to be an exciting event for indie game developers and enthusiasts alike. Mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired by the creativity of indie games!