Approximately 30,000 individuals participated in GDC 2025

Close to 30,000 individuals attended this year's Game Developers Conference, matching the turnout from 2024. However, the number of exhibitors at the Moscone Center in San Francisco rose from 325 to 400.

The event featured over 1,000 speakers who contributed to 750 sessions, workshops, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities. GDC 2025 marked the inaugural GDC Nights, held after-hours on March 17 and March 20, drawing more than 6,000 participants.

Stephanie Hawkins, the event director of GDC, commented, "Observing the stimulating talks, the unified efforts in labor organization, and the remarkable performances at GDC Nights has been an affirming experience. It underscores the importance of GDC's mission to unite developers through their shared passion for game development." Hawkins added, "Despite the escalating challenges for game developers globally, we are pleased that GDC remains a vital platform. We eagerly anticipate reconnecting with our community and hope that the connections and insights gained will inspire their future projects."

During this week-long conference, two awards ceremonies took place. The Game Developers Choice Awards saw Balatro winning several honors, including Game of the Year. Meanwhile, the Independent Game Awards recognized Consume Me with the Seumas McNally Grand Prize for Best Independent Game. This game was created by Jenny Jiao Hsia, AP Thompson, Jie En Lee, Violet W-P, and Ken 'coda' Synder.

The next GDC is set for March 9 to March 13, 2026, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco.