The Scottish Games Network is delighted to announce the return of the popular Drop in and Play games event at the Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA) centre in January 2026, and is calling for developers to submit their games for showcase.
The free public event, which offers visitors a unique chance to play new and unreleased games before they are widely available, is set for Saturday, January 24th, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM.
This session is presented in partnership with local studio Ninja Kiwi (developers of the hit Bloons series) and the UK Games Fund (UKGF), underlining the strong local commitment to fostering new talent and supporting early-stage development.
A Crucial Opportunity for Feedback
For individual developers, students, and small studios, Drop in and Play provides a crucial opportunity that is often difficult to access: genuine, direct public feedback.
Showcasing your work allows you to observe visitors’ immediate reactions, gather insights on playability, and stress-test your user experience – all essential steps for turning a prototype into a finished, polished product.
Developers who participate will have the chance to meet other local creators, network with the supportive teams from DCA, Ninja Kiwi, and UKGF, and gain valuable publicity through the event’s marketing activities.
Submission Criteria
The DCA is actively seeking new and unreleased games made in Scotland, with a particular focus on those developed in Dundee.
- Eligibility: Games must be either a finished product or a playable prototype.
- Suitability: Games must be suitable for children and young people.
- Who Can Apply: Applications are welcomed from individuals, students, and small studios. Previous showcase participants are also encouraged to apply again.
- Logistics: Applicants will be expected to supply the necessary computer or device required to demonstrate their projects.
How to Submit Your Game
Developers interested in taking part should send an email to isla.wade@dca.org.uk by Sunday, December 14th, including the following information:
- Name and/or studio name
- A short description of their game and the intended target age group/audience
- Links to any relevant resources
- Social media handle/website (if available)
This year’s showcase will include games from this year’s DunDev teams. DunDev is a residential programme which offers four early-stage game studios accommodation, office space and prize money to develop their studio and game. This programme is delivered by the UK Games Talent and Finance Community Interest Company, and funded by the UK Government.
The January Drop in and Play will also include a Careers Spotlight event featuring short talks and introductions to careers in gaming, taking place between 11:30 and 12:30. This part of the event is ticketed with Donate What You Can tickets available to book here.
Don’t miss this opportunity to test your game in a creative, public-facing environment and connect with key supporters of the Scottish games community.