Want the lowdown on PGC London 2026? This page should help…
(Note: There’s more to come!)
Helsinki is well established as a videogaming production hub, driven by its robust technology sector, favourable government initiatives, and a flourishing startup environment. These factors have developed to further build the city as a prime destination not only for mobile, PC and console gaming development but also as key location within the industry for the emergence and growth of innovative technologies including AI, web3 and virtual reality.
We’ll be covering all these topics along with the fundamentals of raising investment, launching and growing successful games and showcasing the tools and services that support them. Indeed, with content from over 150 speakers across multiple tracks – and three partner events in the Big Screen Gaming Summit, AI Gamechangers Summit , and Beyond Games: Transmedia Summit – there will be something to inspire and inform all comers to the conference.
Our format is deliberately quick-fire to squeeze as much content as we can. Typically a single session will be around 20 minutes long, with 40-50 minutes allotted for the expert panels.
DAY 1 | Tuesday, October 7
Ad Insights
MUST-HAVE MONETISATION SKILLS: In-game ads remain central to many studios’ monetisation strategy – join us to discover the latest trends and advice
15:40–17:25 | Day 1 | Track Room 2
In-game ads continue to play a pivotal role in studios’ monetisation strategies, making them essential for success. Join us and gain valuable insights into the cutting-edge trends and expert advice in this field.
Stay ahead of the game by exploring the latest developments and optimising your approach to maximise revenue and player engagement. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Martin Jurasek
martinjurasek.com
Olha Semykina
Super Banana
Katerina Burbela
Homa Games
Miikka Lindgren
Sandsoft
Vitor de Magalhaes
Companion Group
AI Advances
NEXT-LEVEL MACHINE LEARNING: From art to scriptwriting and programming: machine learning and artificial intelligence will change the way we create and communicate
09:15–11:30 | Day 1 | Track Room 3
Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) are poised to revolutionise the games industry. From transforming art creation and scriptwriting to revolutionising programming techniques, these technologies will reshape how we create and communicate.
Embrace the power of AI and explore its endless possibilities to unlock new levels of innovation, efficiency, and expression in the realms of games. Prepare to embark on an exciting journey of limitless potential and redefine the boundaries of human imagination.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Martin Jurasek
martinjurasek.com
Olha Semykina
Super Banana
Katerina Burbela
Homa Games
Miikka Lindgren
Sandsoft
Vitor de Magalhaes
Companion Group
Audience Accelerator
EXPANDING YOUR REACH: Tips and guides for growing your game using the best UA and marketing techniques
11:00–12:40 | Day 1 | Track Room 2
Discover the most effective growth, user acquisition (UA), and marketing techniques to take your game to the next level.
From optimising your app store listings to running paid campaigns, this track will equip you with the tools you need to attract more users, increase engagement, and drive revenue.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Big Screen Gaming
PC, CONSOLE & MORE!: Beyond mobile: developing and publishing for PC, console, XR, cloud gaming and more.
15:10–17:35 | Day 2 | Track Room 3
PC and console gaming have experienced a surge in popularity and recognition. The gaming industry has seen huge growth in recent years as well as consistent disruption, even before COVID-19; from growth in digital sales of games and esports to free-to-play revenue model adoption, live streaming, and cloud gaming.
With new tools and technology though, more game developers and publishers are tuning into performance marketing. Learn about these changes and what PC and console game marketers should be doing now.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Browser Breakthroughs
GAMING ON THE WEB: Discover how browser gaming is reshaping player accessibility and engagement
10:50–12:00 | Day 2 | Track Room 3
As the games industry continues to evolve, new ways of playing games for consumers are discovered.
But how about rediscovering methods that have been out of the spotlight? This track explores the world of HTML5 gaming, diving deep into the unique challenges and opportunities for developers in the browser gaming ecosystem, from navigating monetization models (ads, in-app purchases, subscriptions) to mastering cross-platform compatibility.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Creative Kingdom
LOCAL LEGENDS: Creative insight into the latest & hottest industry trends from top British games companies.
09:05–10:20 | Day 1 | Track Room 1
Hear from the UK’s top games companies on the creative insights and industry trends shaping the future of gaming.
This session will feature presentations and discussions on the latest developments in game design, user experience, and technology from the most innovative minds in the British games industry.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Developer Toolkit
PRACTICAL TIPS AND TOOLS: Everything a growing developer needs: essential, practical advice about all aspects of making games.
10:40–12:40 | Day 2 | Track Room 1
Gain valuable expertise from game development professionals as they divulge insights into pivotal tools, software, and methodologies vital for crafting top-tier games.
Unlock optimisation techniques, efficient workflows, and adept teamwork advice for ensuring excellence in game creation.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Digital Policy Decoded
REGULATORY ADAPTION: Navigate the media landscape following the release of new regulations like the Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act
09:25–10:50 | Day 2 | Track Room 3
Stay informed in the ever-evolving media realm following the enactment of pivotal regulations.
Adapt your strategies to comply with these transformative legislations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their implications on digital services and market dynamics.
Stay ahead by navigating the complex landscape shaped by these regulatory milestones.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Game Dev Stories
LEARN FROM DEVELOPERS: Hear from games developers and find out what they are working on, how they have innovated and what lessons they have learned along the way.
13:40–16:20 | Day 2 | Track Room 1
Get inspired by the firsthand experiences of games developers as they share their latest projects, groundbreaking innovations, and invaluable lessons learned throughout their journey.
Gain exclusive insights into their creative process, discover the innovative solutions they’ve implemented, and uncover the wisdom they’ve gained along the way.
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and fuel your own path to success in game development.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Game Maker Insights
HANDS-ON ADVICE: Case studies from the front line, covering the likes of game design, audio, character design, UX, and narrative.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Immerse yourself in real-world case studies from the forefront of the industry, delving into diverse areas such as game design, audio production, character design, user experience (UX), and narrative development.
Gain valuable insights from these practical examples that showcase successful approaches, innovative techniques, and effective strategies employed by industry professionals.
Expand your knowledge and stay inspired by the experiences shared by experts in these key domains of game development and design.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Global Trends
INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE: From East to West: facts, figures and insight into the latest industry trends from all over the globe.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Embark on a journey that spans across continents, as we present you with an expansive view of the games industry’s latest trends, facts, figures, and insights from around the world.
Delve into the dynamic landscapes of both the East and the West, gaining a comprehensive understanding of regional nuances, market dynamics, and emerging opportunities.
Stay informed and inspired by the diverse and ever-evolving global games industry, ensuring you remain at the forefront of this thrilling and vibrant ecosystem.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Incredible Indies
INDIE-SPENSABLE INFO: How to survive and thrive as a smaller studio in today’s competitive games development landscape.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Discover essential strategies and insights on not just surviving but thriving as a smaller studio in the fiercely competitive games development landscape of today.
Learn how to leverage your strengths, cultivate a unique identity, and differentiate yourself in the market.
Explore effective techniques, smart resource management, and innovative approaches to game design. Arm yourself with the knowledge and tools to carve out a successful path for your studio in the dynamic games industry.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
IP Unlocked
THE POWER OF IP: Discover the potential (and pitfalls!) of licensing and working with intellectual property to unlock the global power of big franchises.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Delve into the intricate landscape of licensing and navigating the potential pitfalls associated with working with intellectual property. Uncover the key strategies for harnessing the immense global influence wielded by major franchises.
Whether it’s unlocking opportunities or sidestepping challenges, gain insights into maximising the power and potential inherent in intellectual property collaborations, and understand the dynamics shaping the expansive world of big franchises.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Live Ops Landscape
LESSONS FOR LIVING GAMES: A track dedicated to explaining and improving your approach to live ops, the core of the modern games world.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
The world of live ops is rapidly evolving, and games companies must adapt their approach to keep up. This track highlights the need for improving and updating to maintain ongoing engagement with online communities, and shares helpful ways to keep players coming back for more, ensuring that games continue to thrive in the long term.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Marketing Marvels
SOCIAL STRATEGIES: Discover the latest tips and techniques from the personalities and agencies that are changing the media world.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Learn the latest tactics and best practices for marketing from the thought leaders and agencies that are revolutionising the industry.
From targeting specific audiences to creating engaging content, this track will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to take your marketing strategy to the next level.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Monetiser
BUSINESS BOOSTING: Make the most of new advertising formats, IAPs and other monetisation developments in this focused track.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Unleash the full potential of cutting-edge advertising formats, in-app purchases (IAPs), and other groundbreaking monetisation developments in this specialised track.
Stay ahead of the curve by exploring the latest advancements in targeted advertising, optimising IAP strategies, and leveraging innovative monetisation models.
Discover the keys to effectively monetise your games and maximise revenue streams, ensuring long-term success and profitability in an ever-evolving industry landscape.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Practical AI
AI DEVELOPMENT KNOW-HOW: Explore AI’s role in game development, to enhance player experiences, optimise performance, and efficiently create dynamic, immersive virtual worlds
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Dive into AI’s pivotal role in game development, crafting immersive virtual worlds, optimising performance, and elevating player experiences. Learn to harness AI tools to push boundaries ethically, while addressing concerns.
Explore its evolution in enhancing gameplay, procedural generation, and adaptive systems, unlocking new heights in game design. Embrace AI’s transformative power while navigating ethical considerations to shape the future of gaming.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Publisher Power
LEVERAGING YOUR DEAL: Get the most out of your publishing deal and take your game’s launch to the next level
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Explore the challenges and opportunities of games publishing. Including insights into the unique cultural and regulatory considerations of global regions, as well as strategies for navigating these challenges and maximising revenue potential to get the most out of your publishing deal and take your game’s launch to the next level.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Power Up
CELEBRATING UNSUNG HEROES: Curated by a panel of women, this track celebrates games’ hidden figures sharing untold journeys of resilience and leadership to inspire a more inclusive future.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Curated by a panel of women, this track amplifies the voices and stories too often left behind the scenes of the games industry. It brings to light the experiences of those whose journeys are marked by resilience, creativity, and determination, yet are rarely given the spotlight.
Through conversations with trailblazers, innovators, and leaders, it uncovers the challenges they’ve faced, the milestones they’ve achieved, and the new paths they continue to forge.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Show Me The Money
INVESTMENT INSIGHT: Get practical insight on securing the funding that will make a difference.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Stay updated on the latest trends in the world of investment and gain practical insights on how to secure impactful funding for your business.
Explore strategies to attract investors, navigate funding options, and make informed financial decisions. Join us to unlock the keys to funding success and discover the latest trends as the games industry goes through this turbulent period.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
The Growth Track
ESSENTIAL FORWARD PLANNING: Essential insight into user acquisition, retention techniques, and how to grow your game.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
In addition to mastering gameplay mechanics, understanding user acquisition and retention techniques is crucial for growing your game. Gain essential insights into effective strategies on how to grow your business in adverse and new environments, optimise your game’s user interface, and continuously analyse player feedback.
With these strategies for expanding into new territories and adapting to changing market conditions, you can attract and retain a dedicated player base, ensuring steady growth and success for your game.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
UGC Update
USERS AS CREATORS: Explore user-generated content, and discover strategies and inspiration to stay at the forefront of UGC trends
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Embark on a journey into the dynamic world of user generated content (UGC)! On this new track, you’ll find illuminating talks and panels exploring why UGC stands as a cornerstone of modern games. Learn effective strategies to nurture and celebrate UGC within your games, fostering a vibrant and engaged community of creators.
Gain inspiration from standout examples of games that have mastered the art of UGC integration. Stay at the forefront of trends around the escalating prevalence of UGC in the contemporary gaming ecosystem.
Elevate your game development journey with insights that empower you to embrace and amplify the creativity of your user base.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Webstore Wizardry
THE MAGIC OF ONLINE STORES: Discover the significance of webstores and how to use them in the monetisation of your games.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Discover the growing significance of webstores and how they can play a pivotal role in the industry.
We’ll uncover valuable insights on how game creators can leverage these platforms to monetise their creations.
You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how online stores integrate with the current gaming ecosystem, including in-app purchases and official app stores, and receive actionable tips on optimising your presence in the webstore landscape, ensuring a successful and rewarding experience for both creators and players.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
Unlocking Webshops with Xsolla
YOUR GATEWAY TO CONSUMERS: Exploring the limitless potential of webstores.
00:00–00:00 | Track Room X
Get the keys to unleash the massive potential of webstores and boost your games’ revenue.
A deep dive into the benefits of webshop integration and D2C sales for mobile game developers, in a track led by sector specialist Xsolla. Discover the potential of bypassing app store restrictions by enabling your players to purchase in-game content directly from the web, and how this unlocks monetisation stategies, boosts revenue, enhances data insight, and can prove transformational for your business.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Thorbjorn Warin
MyGamez
David Fernandez
Sandsoft
Oriol Canudas
King
Enric Cabestany
FunPlus
Luis de la Camara
Rovio
The Very Big Indie Pitch:
Mobile Edition
PITCHING COMPETITION!: Celebrating new indie games! The ever-popular pitching competition returns, with a chance for media coverage, instant feedback and maybe a prize
00:00–00:00 | Fringe event space
Unique indie developer competition based on a speed-dating format that gives each game maker a frantic five minutes (including Q&A) with each panel of experts to make the case for why their title should be judged the winner.
[Please note: for pre-registered and confirmed participants only.]
SPONSORED BY
PGC London Global Connects Party
NIGHT-TIME NETWORKING: Business doesn’t stop when the conference doors have closed for the day… (though do bring your conference badge to get in!)
19:00–Late | Laietana Cultural
When the lights go down, the business continues. Make connections that matter within the easygoing setting of the official post-Day 1 party. Relaxed after-hours networking, open to all members of the games industry. (But PGC conference pass holders get early access from 19:00.)
SPONSORED BY
DAY 2 | Wednesday, October 8
The Very Big Indie Pitch:
PC & Console Edition
PITCHING COMPETITION!: The PC & console version of our pitching competition, this is your chance to get instant feedback on your new game, as well as press coverage, prizes and valuable contacts
00:00–00:00 | Fringe event space
All entrants receive constructive feedback in real-time and get to hone their presentation skills. The closing of a PG Connects conference with the announcement of the Very Big Indie Pitch winners has become tradition!
[Please note: for pre-registered and confirmed participants only.]
SPONSORED BY
Publisher SpeedMatch
CURATED MEETINGS: Developers, meet publishers
00:00–00:00 | Fringe event space
Our Publisher SpeedMatch sessions pair developers, speed-dating style, with leading publishers. Perfect for first contact meetings with new prospects.
[Please note: for pre-registered and confirmed participants only.]
SPONSORED BY
Investor Connector
FIND FUNDING: Investor Connector selects applicants for one-on-one meetings with investors and VCs looking to spend the right kind of money in the right sector
00:00–00:00 | Fringe event space
A dedicated session that welcomes applications from game-related studios hoping to connect with investors and VCs.
We set aside a quiet space where pre-selected companies seeking funding and investors get to connect one-on-one for an initial meeting to discuss their potential involvement. This is a fully curated session and successful applicants undergo an approval and selection process.
SPONSORED BY
Apps Business Summit
PARTNER EVENT – NEW FOR 2026: Pocket Gamer Connects is expanding its reach beyond pure gaming with the launch of the Apps Business Summit, a brand new one-day event dedicated to the global app economy.
00:00–00:00 | Fringe event space
Taking place at the Barbican Centre on Day 1 of PGC London 2026, the summit will bring together developers, publishers, and growth experts from both games and non-games sectors to explore shared challenges and opportunities.
Covering user acquisition, monetisation, engagement, gamification, and UX/UI design, it will connect innovators behind the biggest language, fitness, dating, entertainment and productivity apps with mobile industry veterans from the world of games.
The UK’s strong focus on digital entrepreneurship makes this summit a natural extension of the PGC ecosystem. Apps Business Summit will become a regular feature in the PGC calendar, strengthening the conference’s position as the leading event for mobile.
The Apps Business Summit is a partner event of PGC London and access is included as part of the PGC London ticket.
SPONSORED BY
Beyond Games: Transmedia Summit
PARTNER EVENT: Pocket Gamer Connects is bringing its acclaimed Beyond Games: Transmedia Summit to London for the first time in 2026.
00:00–00:00 | Fringe event space
Hosted at the Barbican Centre, one of the UK’s leading arts and performance venues, the one-day event will explore the creative and commercial intersections between games, film, TV, music, and other media.
Building on the success of its Helsinki debut, the London summit will unite storytellers, producers, investors, and technologists to discuss the future of shared IP and cross-media collaboration, connecting the UK’s vibrant creative industries with the global games community.
The mission is to establish Beyond Games: Transmedia Summit as a regular feature of the PGC calendar and to position PGC London as the UK’s premier connection point for games and the wider media industries, creating opportunities for collaboration, co-production, and investment across creative sectors.
Expect talks and panels featuring insights from experts across games, film, TV, and music in a dedicated auditorium within the celebrated Barbican event space.
Beyond Games: Transmedia Summit is a partner event of PGC London and access is included as part of the PGC London ticket.
SPONSORED BY
