Want the lowdown on PGC Summit Shanghai 2026? This page should help…
The internationally acclaimed Pocket Gamer Connects conference series returns to China for the second edition of PGC Summit Shanghai in association with MyGamez on July 29.
Shanghai’s undisputed position as a major international hub for technology and China’s roster of titanic games publishers and development studios create a powerhouse combination that ensures this one-day summit, at this uniquely thrilling location, will prove an unmissable event for industry leaders and teams from every corner of the games sector.
PG Connects Summit Shanghai marks an exciting expansion for the b2b networking and knowledge-sharing event, and builds on the remarkable success of the PGC series, which has already welcomed over 70,000 attendees from more than 70 countries across 58 conferences, and influenced an estimated $1.5 billion in deals across its 12-year history.
SCHEDULE | Wednesday, July 29
The Big Indie Pitch:
Mobile, PC, and Console 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
09:30–12:00 & 13:00–14:00 | Expo Hall Mandarin Hall
Unique indie developer competition based on a quick-fire 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. 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 Big Indie Pitch winners has become tradition!
[Please note: for pre-registered and confirmed participants only.]
SPONSORED BY
Global Trends
INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE: From East to West – facts, figures and insight into the latest industry trends from all over the globe.
10:00–11:20 | Track Room
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:
Mikael Leinonen
MyGamez
Grace Zhou
Scopely
Yiting Shan
Animoca Brands
Wenfeng Yang
Hat-Trick Capital
East Meets West
UNMATCHED MARKET OPPORTUNITIES: Get the lowdown on entering the Eastern market as a Western developer, and how to reach Western audiences as an Eastern studio
11:20–13:00 | Track Room
China is the world’s biggest video games market, responsible for some $50bn of a $180bn sector, but it remains an unfamiliar and overwhelming territory to many Western companies. Alongside this, there is still huge potential locked up in audiences beyond China’s massive domestic market.
This track provides practical guides on how to enter China’s games sector and do business within the region, while also providing practical insights for Chinese studios on how to reach global audiences beyond their own.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Sherry Su
Consultant
Lemon Choi
Hyperjoy Studio
Yikun Zhang
Oppo
Zhifu Yan
Xiaomi
Ad Insights
MUST-HAVE MONETISATION SKILLS: In-game ads remain central to many studios’ monetisation strategy – come discover the latest trends and advice
14:00–15:00 | Track Room
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. Looking for a boost? Don’t miss this track!
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Sherry Su
Consultant
Lemon Choi
Hyperjoy Studio
Yikun Zhang
Oppo
Zhifu Yan
Xiaomi
The Growth Track
ESSENTIAL FORWARD PLANNING: Essential insight into user acquisition, retention techniques, and how to grow your game.
15:00–16:00 | Track Room
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:
Claire Yang
Kingsoft
Dan Laughlin
Gamesight
Chip Thurston
FastSpring
Jani Torppa
Geeklab
AI Gamechangers Summit
AI DEVELOPMENT KNOW-HOW: Explore AI’s role in game development and how China is leading when creating new, unique experiences.
16:00–17:20 | Track Room
AI is transforming game development at a rapid pace, with China currently leading the way when it comes to creating new and unique experiences.
The AI Gamechangers Summit dives into AI’s pivotal role in game development, from crafting immersive virtual worlds to optimising performance. Discover how Chinese studios are using this technology to revolutionise the way we make games, so you can elevate your projects to new heights.
SPONSORED BY
Includes sessions from:
Claire Yang
Kingsoft
Dan Laughlin
Gamesight
Chip Thurston
FastSpring
Jani Torppa
Geeklab
Pocket Gamer Party China
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!)
19:30–Late | Chilis Cafe & Bar – 3072 Binjiang Blvd
When the lights go down, the conversations don’t stop. Make connections that matter within the easygoing setting of the official post-summit party, open to all attendees.
SPONSORED BY
