Game Developers Conference 2026 will be a little less international this year if comments on social media platforms like LinkedIn are any indicator.
Many members of the international gaming industry have announced they will skip the event, mainly due to security concerns, tougher US immigration rules, and the presence of stronger Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Developers, past GDC attendees, and other industry professionals have taken to the platform as it is LinkedIn to express their concerns publicly.
ICE activity in several US cities as well as the recent fatal shooting in Minneapolis involving ICE agents have heightened concerns. Renee Nicole Good died on January 7th, and ICU nurse Alex Pretti died on January 24th. Many travelers also said they were worried about unpredictable border checks and security.
As one person said, “It’s not worth taking the risk to go.” Another chimed in: “The US is just a very problematic location for international events.”
GDC, now renamed the “GDC Festival of Gaming,” is scheduled to take place in San Francisco from March 9 to 13.
Others cited general concerns about safety as well as cost as factors in their decision not to participate. Some indie developers and small studios say the costs, including hotel, food, travel, and ticket prices, are simply too high.
In response to these concerns, GDC president Nina Brown said Mobilegamer.bizthat “the safety of our community is always our top priority.” In a statement, Brown said the GDC is working with “local officials and legal experts to monitor changes in US policy” and provide up-to-date guidance. Brown also advises international visitors to start their visa applications early and consult with their embassies about special requirements.
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Brown also outlined several safety measures, including the GDC offering a 24/7 safety hotline, safety training for event staff, and security guards on request. The San Francisco Safety Community Ambassador Program will also be present, providing additional support to attendees throughout the event.
TechCrunch has also reached out to GDC for comment and will update this article if the organization responds.
On the cost front, GDC has introduced simple, more affordable ticketing system to make events easier for small developers and indie studios. The new Festival Pass replaces the previous All-Access pass and is 45% cheaper, with prices starting at $649 and providing access to all major event programming.