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Independent Game Development

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out independent game development events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the independent game development events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find independent game development events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Independent Game Development Events Today

Join in-person Independent Game Development events happening right now

🎲 After Dark at the Guild: Blackfyr Game Night Extravaganza!
🎲 After Dark at the Guild: Blackfyr Game Night Extravaganza!
Step into the Guild Hall for an evening of strategy, laughter, and meaningful connections. **The Blackfyr Guild Game Night** is more than just board games — it’s a curated social experience designed for people who enjoy good conversation, sharp minds, and relaxed competition. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or just here to unwind after a long week, you’ll find a welcoming table, engaging games, and like-minded individuals who value quality interactions over noise. For event updates, venue notes, future game nights, and upcoming Blackfyr Guild gatherings, please join our WhatsApp and Instagram community: **Whatsapp:** https://chat.whatsapp.com/CMGVetRA5WJ1ad2DaSC9Kk **Instagram** https://www.instagram.com/theblackfyrguild/ **What to expect:** * A curated selection of board & card games (all levels welcome) * Friendly hosts to explain rules and get games moving * Natural conversations — no forced networking * A calm, premium atmosphere with great people Come solo or bring a friend. Sit, play, connect. This is how communities are built — one table at a time.
Mafia Party Game On Yacht 🎭🎭🛥
Mafia Party Game On Yacht 🎭🎭🛥
For the first time ever Mafia Party Game on a Yacht. Join us for an amazing Mafia party game night ( multiple rounds ) on a yacht. Starting: at 7pm till late night. location: Dubai creek Harbour marina. Yacht is parked all night and not going to move so you can arrive at your leisure. Complimentary Water / Softdrink & snacks. Entrance fee: 55 AED Contact: 058 199 2288 ( Ramin ) WhatsApp group link : https://chat.whatsapp.com/ExhRxxpUtNqE3eNgYfhEQR?mode=wwt
Friendly Football - open to all levels - 7 a side
Friendly Football - open to all levels - 7 a side
We organise social football games for all level players to join. Each player will be provided with clean bibs, water, full match videos, match highlights and match stats like goals, assists and MVP Whatsapp us at +971585129190 to confirm your spot.
Picking Up the Pieces - What happens after the consultants leave
Picking Up the Pieces - What happens after the consultants leave
Happy New Year and welcome back! This session is a relaxed post–winter break catch-up for the HCD UAE community, with time to reconnect, share stories, and ease back into the year together. Alongside the networking, we’ll have a short, informal talk led by **[Julie Rix](https://www.linkedin.com/in/julierixbagger/)**, Co-founder and Strategic Designer at **The Sifer Network**. Julie will reflect on a familiar pattern many organisations experience after engaging large management consultancies, the moment when the strategy decks are delivered, the consultants move on, and internal teams are left to “pick up the pieces”. The conversation will touch on themes such as how strategy engagements often fail to build real capability inside organisations, how dependency can form in both the short and long term, and what happens when a 300+ slide PowerPoint lands without clear ownership, execution, or embedded change. Rather than a takedown, this is a reflective discussion grounded in a couple of real projects and lived experience. The aim is to spark thoughtful conversation about what actually helps organisations scale, adapt, and improve once external advisors have left the room. As always with HCD UAE, expect a friendly crowd, thoughtful discussion, and plenty of space to connect with others working across design, product, service, strategy, and research.
Football Friendly Game - ALL LEVELS are Welcome
Football Friendly Game - ALL LEVELS are Welcome
**REGISTRATION THROUGH WHATSAPP: 0522955859** Looking to kick a ball around and have fun? Join us for a friendly game of football! Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, all skill levels are welcome. This event is perfect for players who want to improve their fitness while enjoying a social game of football in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We cater to all types of players, from experienced footballers to beginners who want to learn and have fun. Our group is all about providing a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Join us on the pitch and let's have some fun together! As always, we will be playing outdoors, so please remember to bring appropriate footwear, comfortable athletic clothing, and water to stay hydrated. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to meet new people, get in some exercise, and indulge your love for the beautiful game. See you on the field!
Football Game 8 Vs 8 📍Toss Academy Gharhoud
Football Game 8 Vs 8 📍Toss Academy Gharhoud
Footballl Game 8 Vs 8 Message admin on WhatsApp to join the game +971506319390 Entry fee 45AED ✅Free Cold Drinks❄️🧊 ✅Refree Available👨‍💼 ✅Original Balls⚽️ ✅Clean washed Bibes Given👕 ✅ 8 Vs 8 Football Pitch🏟️ ✅Good level players Only📈 ✅Highlight recording🎥 ✅Sound system Football🎶 **Join below WhatsApp community 👇** https://chat.whatsapp.com/GaEshDpcetPH2f94mtDL3w?mode=ems_copy_c
AI Builders & Business Connect | Dubai Meetup
AI Builders & Business Connect | Dubai Meetup
### **Where Dubai’s AI Innovators, Operators, and Talent Meet to Build the Future** Are you building in AI? Launching a tech startup? Exploring how AI can transform your business or job? Or looking to join the next big thing in AI? Join **AI Builders & Business Connect**, a **founder-first, operator-focused meetup** for Dubai’s tech and AI community. This isn’t your typical networking mixer—it’s a room full of **people building**, **people hiring**, and **people looking to grow**. *** ## **🗓️ Event Details** **Coffee & Sundries, First Floor** **When: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Sharp) - Every Thursday** **Where:** Coffee & Sundries, First Floor (Above Carrefour), DIFC, Dubai **Entry: FREE**— we just ask that you support the venue by purchasing a coffee or some food. *** ## **🚀 What to Expect** This is for **doers, decision-makers, and tech talent ready to build:** ### **🔹 AI 60-Second Spotlight** Founders, job seekers, and partners get **60 seconds to introduce themselves**—no slides, no fluff. ### **🔹 Speed Collaboration Rounds** Quick, curated connections between **builders, investors, operators, and AI talent**. ### **🔹 Real Conversations, Real Opportunities** Whether you’re hiring, raising, building, or job hunting—this is where partnerships start. ### **🔹 Dubai & UAE Playbook** Hear practical tips from locals on how to **launch, hire, and scale tech ventures in the region.** *** ### 📋 Agenda * **7:30 – 8:00 PM** Introductions * **8:00 – 8:45 PM** Market research using different AI tools * **8:45 – 9:15 PM** Prototyping session on one selected idea * **9:15 PM onward** Networking ## **💡 Who Should Attend?** * **AI Founders & Startup Builders** * **Tech Entrepreneurs & SaaS Leaders** * **Investors scouting AI deals** * **Engineers, Developers & Product Leaders working in AI** * **Job Seekers & Operators looking to join AI and tech startups** * **Enterprise Innovators exploring AI use cases** *** ## **⚠️ Important** * **Your RSVP is a commitment**—let us know 24 hours in advance if plans change * **Doors close at 7:30 PM sharp**—no late entries *** ## **🌍 Hosted by Pradeep Valat** Startup advisor, investor, and AI business strategist helping founders unlock growth. LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/ivallat](https://linkedin.com/in/ivallat) WhatsApp: +971 529503315 *** ## **🔥 Why This Event?** Dubai’s AI and tech scene is booming—but it’s still about **who you know and who you build with.** This is where **startups meet talent, investors meet ideas, and builders find partners.** **Spots are limited. If you’re serious about AI, this is your room.** **By participating in AI Builders & Business Connect \| events\, you consent to the use of photos and videos captured during the event for promotional purposes\.**

Independent Game Development Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

🎲 Mira & Mira Oasis Board Games Hangout
🎲 Mira & Mira Oasis Board Games Hangout
This is a **casual board games hangout for Mira & Mira Oasis residents** who just want to relax, have fun, and meet neighbors in a friendly, no-pressure setting. No intense competition, no expert skills needed — just good laughs, easy games, and good company. Whether you’re new to the community or have been around for years, this is a simple way to make new friends and unwind after the week. We keep it light, social, and inclusive. Games may include: * Catan * Mafia * Monopoly * UNO * Ludo * Party & ice-breaker games * And other easy, fun board games You’re also welcome to suggest or bring your own games 👍
SATURDAY BOARD GAMING @ South Market (Gate Avenue DIFC)
SATURDAY BOARD GAMING @ South Market (Gate Avenue DIFC)
**How to find us?** Park your car near Gate Avenue (RTA or alternative) or, if you use Metro, exit the Financial Center metro station. Enter the Gate Avenue and ask for Carrefour. Use the nearest escalator to go to the upper level. That is the South Market. We normally play in front of EARTH KITCHEN. **Welcome again to a Saturday full of board games fun!** This week we meet in South Market (Gate Avenue DIFC) Our meetups are free to attend, RSVP on Meetup.com is mandatory. **Community Rules:** **1\. Respect:** We value and celebrate the diversity within our group. Treat everyone with respect, regardless of their ethnic background, religion, skin color, or gaming preferences. Make sure all members feel welcomed and included. **2\. Following the Group Regulations:** The organizers put in significant time, effort, and resources to organize meetups and maintain the group. Please respect their efforts by following the rules and guidelines they have set. **3\. RSVP for Each Meetup:** RSVPing is crucial for effective event planning. It helps us communicate with the venue and ensure we have adequate space for all attendees. Failure to RSVP may result in denied entry if the venue is already at capacity. **4\. Respect Other People's Property:** Be mindful and respect the belongings of others. Ask for permission before eating or drinking around someone else's game. Use caution when shuffling cards to avoid damaging them. Be careful not to drop components and handle them with care. **5\. Gaming Related Topics:** In our communication channels, including WhatsApp groups and forums, keep discussions strictly related to gaming as a hobby, and events organized by this group. Avoid unrelated topics, or political discussions. **6\. No Advertisements without Prior Approval:** Please seek approval from the group Admins before posting any advertisements for businesses, goods, services and events (including other gaming events). Admins will remove posts that were done without approval and may take action against repeat offenders. In summary, we welcome all board game enthusiasts, regardless of your gaming preferences. We look forward to playing and having a great time together!
Board game night in Dubai
Board game night in Dubai
Hello Everyone! join us unlimited fun and social night at Al kasaba resturant cafe in internet city - from 7:30pm - 11:30 pm for AED 30.00 only! _(min order from the restaurant is 20 AED)_ A good place to socialize, discover new board games, and escape the stress of real world. Nothing to worry as Friendly host and Games masters are there to assist you. So what are you waiting for? come along with your family and friends & join us! Let your inner child to have fun once again! Remember that "We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing" PS: We are too excited to see you laughing and smiling! See you there! BGPlan admins Ayman : 054 797 7536 WhatsApp free parking available inside the hotel #boardgames #funtime #gamenight #meetnewpeople
Game On: Free Board Game Night @ Game Knights Cafe
Game On: Free Board Game Night @ Game Knights Cafe
**The Plan:** We are opening up our board game library for a night of free gaming. No cover charge, no table fees, no entry costs. Whether you are a hardcore strategist or just want a casual round of Uno, the table is yours. **Solo or Group?** Both! If you are coming alone, we will match you with a group. It’s the easiest way to make new friends in the city. **The Deal:** **Pay for your food, not for the games.** We believe good games deserve good food. We’ll cover the entertainment; you just handle your own dinner or drinks. From quick bites to full meals (and coffee to keep you alert), our kitchen is open to fuel your victory. **Details:** * **Location:** Muwaileh Commercial * **Location Link:** https://maps.app.goo.gl/CVHKMUR83BbNMdmU7 * **Time:** 5 PM onwards * **Cost:** Free Entry (Food & Drink menu available to order) **Seats are limited to keep the experience comfortable. Please RSVP only if you are sure you can make it.**
FREE LUDO GAMES DUBAI - @Safa Sports Hall 10am-11am
FREE LUDO GAMES DUBAI - @Safa Sports Hall 10am-11am
Join Dubai Ludo Masters for a fun and social board game night welcoming all newcomers to the city! Whether you're a seasoned strategist or new to tabletop games, this event is perfect for making new friends and getting to know the local board gaming community. Grab your favourite board game or try one of ours from the collection of strategy and cooperative games available. Dive into the world of tabletop gaming, meet like-minded individuals, and enjoy a night filled with laughter, competition, and friendly banter. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with fellow board game enthusiasts in a welcoming and inclusive environment. We are offering limited slots for our FREE LUDO GAMES. Venue: Al Safa Sports Hall Time: 10am Duration: 1 hr Ludo board, pawn and dice: all provided Limited to 8 members only. To join: contact the host Waqsi 0509001406
Ucubed Improv Physical Mashup
Ucubed Improv Physical Mashup
Step into the world of spontaneous creativity with Ucubed Improv! Embrace the transformative 'Yes, And...' mindset, unlocking limitless possibilities in-person / online and in your everyday encounters. Join us for an unforgettable improv jam where laughter and connection reign supreme. Let's co-create unscripted moments together! 🎬🎭🎉 This is open for everyone willing to be part of the fun and learning at these Improv jam sessions with the U3 Members. Pass the word around if you know anyone interested to explore this art form ✨ NOTE: Sharaf DG Metro Station was earlier known as Al Fahidi Metro Station which is showing in the Map of the event.
Board Game Night - Word Game + Psychology Game
Board Game Night - Word Game + Psychology Game
We'll play two board games - a word game and an interesting psychology game. The names of the games are a secret! Please note that the entry fee is AED 30.

Independent Game Development Events Near You

Connect with your local Independent Game Development community

CCAD + COGG 2026 Global Game Jam @CCAD!
CCAD + COGG 2026 Global Game Jam @CCAD!
**Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD) TEAMS UP with The Central Ohio GameDev Group (COGG) for the 2026 Global Game Jam (GGJ)!!!** **GGJ SITE** [https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026](https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026) **REGISTRATION** Fill out this form >>> [https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7) <<< *PLEASE NOTE* \- We have limited capacity so us knowing In\-Person participation early on is critical for us to best accommodate everyone interested in jammin' \- We will also be providing Online teams & support via our COGG Discord bot [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/)! **Registering for this MEETUP event DOES NOT gain you access to the main Global Game Jam event. Please register officially [here](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7).** Every year the game department at CCAD hosts students (and this year local game group COGG!!) in the exciting challenge of developing a theme inspired title over the course of a weekend. The Global Game Jam is a cherished tradition, be it in-person or virtually, we are here for you! This is an excellent opportunity to connect with your peers, make new friends, network with local game makers and try your hand at low stakes game development! Want to know all the details? [Check out the official GGJ site](https://globalgamejam.org/faq) and be sure to use your existing account or create a new jammer [account](https://globalgamejam.org/user/register). \-\-\-\-\- **EVENT DETAILS** Listings subject to change and will be updated so check in periodically! An **[Event Details doc](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing)** can be read for all your info! **Building Hours + Security** available throughout the event **Parking:** See [parking spots highlighted in blue](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view). (see new as of last year) *All Locations:* **DSB 121**, The Game Lounge: informal space for people to decompress. Private bathrooms **DSB126**, Small Classroom / Break-out room **DSB127**, (large multi-use space, tables, projector, couches, bistro tables/chairs, etc) **DSB136**, Flex Space (meals / food, access to refrigerator / microwave, drop-power and tables/chairs). **DSB142**, Presentation room **DSB146**, Cintiq Laptop Docking Lab **VENUE TIME & SPACE** **Friday** 5:00pm - 12am Event launch - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/pV40YzllqoY?feature=share) **Saturday** 7am - 12am **Sunday** 7am - 7:00pm Event closing - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream Ending Ceremony @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/stxxCCPzy2A?feature=share) **MISC. RESOURCES** **Wifi:** We will have access to the GUEST network \- To be provided for login to participants at the event Friday Jan 30th **Map** [CCAD Map](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view?usp=sharing) **Wavier** [Sign and Print or Email to info@thecogg.com](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KaKoz5sK5h1PdZ2rGNOCntyUxoXcGLXL/view) **Schedule** [Updated Regularly](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1EONsxtr3S-bRvIp_s12os-JA-M7uEW207bi9MVfrvbM/edit?usp=sharing) **Event Details** [All in one spot for all event details](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing) **SPONSORS** Global Game Jam ([GGJ](https://globalgamejam.org/)) Columbus College of Art and Design ([CCAD](https://www.ccad.edu/)) The Central Ohio GameDev Group ([COGG](https://thecogg.com/)) [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/) \- Discord game jam bot [GDEX](https://www.thegdex.com/)/[Multivarious](https://www.multivarious.com/) \- Midwest Premiere Gaming Expo
Board games at The Forge
Board games at The Forge
The Forge does have a full bar and kitchen. There is no cover charge but they do request all attendees to purchase a minimum of ~$20 per person. Soft drink refills are $1 each. Please support our hosts so we can continue to provide great events for the group! The Forge has a large library of games available for us to enjoy. Hosts and regulars will also provide numerous popular games but please bring any games you would like to teach and/or play. Doors open at 6, and we expect gaming to be rolling by around 630. Please promptly end your games and clear out the space at 10pm when the bar closes. We encourage socializing but do not permit disruptive behavior of any kind. Thank you for your continued commitment to providing a fun and welcoming space to veteran, newbie, and rookie gamers in the Columbus area. Parking can be challenging. There is a parking lot behind the neighboring Mexican restaurant that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.
Open-Table RPG Meetup!
Open-Table RPG Meetup!
Try new games, meet new people, and find out what story games are all about! Explore the reaches of space! Witness kingdoms rise and fall! Create and explore tragedies! All within a single game night. We play story games like Fiasco, Kingdom, Polaris and Microscope that encourage everyone at the table to participate creatively. We also have one-shots of indie, OSR, and narrative-focused RPGs such as Apocalypse World, Dread, Lady Blackbird, and Old School Essentials! Everybody's welcome! It doesn't matter if you've never tried story games before or never played roleplaying games at all! Just bring your brain and a good attitude and come try it out! *** **IMPORTANT** * When you arrive look for the marked Story Games Columbus Tables. Each table will have a separate game. Seating is on a first-come-first-serve basis. * If all tables are full, look for a Facilitator. We will find a way to get you into a game! * There is a flat $3 cover charge for events at Tabletop. *** **Facilitators!!** Please arrive early so that we can get you set up with a table. Please reach out to me ASAP if you would be willing to help facilitate. You can reach me on the SGC Discord here - https://discord.gg/jUTvWUu
CABS Saturday - 01/31 - It's Your Move!!!
CABS Saturday - 01/31 - It's Your Move!!!
Join us every Saturday of January for a day of boardgaming !!! You first visit is free and if you were not a member in 2025 you can join for the rest of the year for only **$40!!!**
Casual Boardgames - make friends, then beat them in games
Casual Boardgames - make friends, then beat them in games
Welcome to Casual Boardgames, where we enjoy classic tabletop games and social deduction games while bonding over good food, drinks, and great conversations. 
We started this group to meet new people and make new friends, and bonding over games in a relaxed atmosphere is a great way to do that. We currently meet near route 23 and Polaris Parkway, and this is close to areas like Powell, Lewis Center, Worthington, and parts of Westerville and Columbus. 
Feel free to bring your own games or play one of the many games our members bring. If you are inexperienced, we will help you learn. 
Here are just a few examples of the kind of games we play. 
Tabletop/board games: Splendor, Catan, Azul, Dominion, 7 Wonders… 
Social deduction games: Code Names, Chameleon, Werewords… 
IMPORTANT: 
1. While we love playing a variety of games and competing, we are not just about the games. We interact and talk while playing, and this leads to a lot of laughter and fun. If you just want to compete and focus solely on the game, then this is probably not the group you are looking for. 
2. Many people join groups like this and never (or rarely) show up after weeks or months. If you join and never really come, we will eventually remove you from the group as a courtesy to our members. Why? Because limiting group conversations (on the app) to regular members makes communication and planning much easier. Also, while it may be rare, it protects members from people who join because they are interested in following a person instead of having a real interest in our group. If you get removed, it is just because you haven’t come, and we follow this protocol as a courtesy to our regular game players.
Columbus Code & Coffee 83 @ Improving
Columbus Code & Coffee 83 @ Improving
Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!
CABS First Friday - 2/6/26
CABS First Friday - 2/6/26
Hope to see you at a CABS Meeting - your first visit is FREE!!!