The 2026 Game Developers Conference is shaping as much as be slightly less international this yr if commentary on social media platforms like LinkedIn is an indicator.
Many members of the international games industry have announced they may skip the event, mainly over concerns about safety, tougher U.S. immigration rules, and a stronger immigration and Customs Enforcement presence. Developers, past GDC attendees, and other industry professionals have taken to platforms like LinkedIn to publicly voice their concerns.
ICE activity in quite a few U.S. cities in addition to the recent fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving ICE agents have compounded concerns. Renee Nicole Good was killed on January 7, and ICU nurse Alex Pretti lost his life on January 24. Many travelers also said they’re frightened about unpredictable border checks and safety concerns.
As one person put it, “It’s not value taking the danger of going.” One other chimed in: “The U.S. is just a really problematic location for a world event.”
GDC, now rebranded because the “GDC Festival of Gaming,” is scheduled to happen in San Francisco from March 9 to 13.
Others cited general concerns over safety in addition to cost as aspects of their decision to not attend. Some indie developers and small studios have said the prices, which include hotel, food, travel, and the ticket price, are only too high.
In response to those concerns, GDC president Nina Brown told Mobilegamer.biz, that the “safety of our community is at all times our top priority.” In a press release, Brown said the GDC works closely with “local officials and legal experts to watch U.S. policy changes” and to supply the most modern guidance. Brown also advised international attendees to begin their visa applications early and seek the advice of with their embassies regarding any special requirements.
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October 13-15, 2026
Brown also outlined several safety measures, including that GDC offers a 24/7 safety hotline, safety training for event staff, and security escorts upon request. San Francisco’s Safety Community Ambassadors program may also be present, providing additional support to attendees throughout the event.
TechCrunch has also reached out to GDC for comment and can update this text if the organization responds.
On the fee front, GDC has introduced an easier, cheaper ticketing system to make the event more accessible to smaller developers and indie studios. The brand new Festival Pass replaces the previous All-Access pass and is 45% cheaper, with pricing starting at $649 and providing access to all major event programming.