Exciting Indie Games to Showcase at Taipei Game Show 2026 from Japan

The much-anticipated Taipei Game Show 2026 is set to take place from January 29 to February 1, 2026. This event promises to highlight the vibrant indie game culture, especially with the participation of two promising titles from the SO-FU initiative, which is supported by Marvelous Inc. and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan. The showcased games include 'Dress the Duel' by ugokuware and 'Finding Polka' by lidlocks.

Featured Titles

'Dress the Duel'

Created by ugokuware, 'Dress the Duel' is an innovative deck-building game where players engage in battles using costume cards. The game combines strategy with fashion, as players layer outfits and design their style to achieve victory. Its unique approach to gameplay makes it a must-try for fans of both gaming and fashion.

'Finding Polka'

By lidlocks, 'Finding Polka' invites players on a small yet meaningful adventure to find a character named Polka. Throughout the journey, players help troubled individuals they encounter, forging friendships along the way. This game emphasizes the importance of companionship and support, making it a touching experience for players.

Expanding Horizons for Japanese Indie Games

The participation in Taipei Game Show represents not only an opportunity for these games but also a significant milestone for Japan's indie gaming sector. The selection for the exhibition was made by experienced mentors affiliated with the SO-FU program, showcasing games that show potential for success in the Asian market.

By providing a platform for showcasing their concepts, the SO-FU initiative aims to promote Japanese indie games in overseas markets with escalating global interest.

Recent Activities and Future Events

In addition to the Taipei Game Show, the iGi (indie Game incubator) program has also been active recently, seeking to broaden the presentation opportunities for domestic and foreign creators. In mid-November, iGi participated in the SANUKI X GAME 2025 event held in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, where various teams showcased their projects to the public, receiving invaluable feedback from attendees.

As one of the nurturing platforms for indie games, iGi held a Demo Day for the fifth cohort, where approximately 40 publishers attended, marking a celebratory graduation for the participants. The next application deadline for the sixth cycle is fast approaching, with submissions accepted until December 15, 2025. Full program details can be found on the official iGi website.

Conclusion

The Taipei Game Show 2026 serves as a gateway for Japan's indie games to reach a wider international audience, promoting creativity and innovation in the gaming landscape. With programs like SO-FU and iGi, the future looks promising for emerging talents within the indie scene. Be sure to check out these unique games and witness the future of gaming unfold at the event.