The summer season has kicked off once again in Kyoto, bringing with it scorching temperatures and the highlight of the indie gaming calendar—BitSummit. Celebrating its 13th anniversary, this prominent indie game festival takes over the Miyako Messe convention center, where creators and fans gather to explore the latest in independent gaming.
BitSummit is renowned for its friendly atmosphere, especially on the opening day which caters primarily to industry professionals, including exhibitors, sponsors, and media. This day provides a unique opportunity to connect with old acquaintances and discover lesser-known games amid a relatively relaxed crowd. Popular booths, like those from Nintendo and PlayStation, featured short wait times, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in the gaming experiences.
One of the standout innovations at this year’s festival is Thumbylina, the brainchild of developer Leona Takahashi. Thumbylina is marketed as the world’s smallest virtual companion, housed on a tiny keychain device called Thumby. This charming invention encourages players to take Thumbylina on their daily adventures, rewarding them as she “gains experience” through activities like studying or exercising.
In addition to quirky creations, BitSummit showcased more traditional indie titles, such as Tecopark’s engaging new add-on for their hit co-op puzzle game, Pico Park 2. This addition introduces new stages that utilize the Joy-Con’s mouse controls, facilitating collaborative puzzle-solving with friends. The excitement and laughter among players affirming the game’s potential for memorable social gaming experiences.
The horror genre also made a notable appearance at BitSummit, highlighted by The Black Lantern Collective, a fresh publisher debuting at the festival with a collection of original games. Among them, Muffles’ Life Sentence caught attention with its darkly humorous narrative, while No Players Online offered a unique twist on exploration through a simulated retro operating system. Each game presented an intriguing take on storytelling and gameplay that pushes the boundaries of what indie games can achieve.
As BitSummit unfolds, attendees look forward to a variety of new titles, including a curious Chinese FMV game and an origami-themed platformer, affirming the festival’s reputation as a vibrant hub for innovation and creativity in the gaming industry. This celebratory gathering not only highlights the growth of indie games but also fosters community and connection among creators and gamers alike. While the festival faces the challenges of the summer heat, the excitement as creators share their visions remains palpable.