The Google Play store shared a list of initiatives aimed at supporting indie developers. A new competition for Android titles has been announced, as well as training programs.

Indie Games Showcase Competition

The acceptance of works for the international competition for developers of Android titles will last until May 6, 2019. The contest was named Indie Games Showcase.


Conditions:

  • studios from Russia, as well as 19 other European countries, South Korea and Japan can take part;
  • studio staff — up to 30 people (inclusive);
  • the game submitted for the contest must be published on Google Play after January 1, 2018 or be prepared for publication in the near future;
  • an application for the competition can be submitted only after reaching the age of 18.

For winning the contest, Google promises to promote the game within its store, through Android and Google Play marketing channels, as well as at a profile event in the region where the studio is located. The winner will also be provided with Google hardware and the help of consultants from Google Play.

Indie Games Accelerator Program

Google will launch a new accelerator for gaming startups. Developers from Southeast Asia, India and Pakistan could participate in last year’s accelerator. Now the program also extends to Africa, Latin America, and certain countries of the Middle East.

The program includes a “comprehensive curriculum”, startup evaluation, and advice from Google experts. Applications will be accepted “soon”.

Academy for App Success Program

Google has also prepared a free online course for Android developers dedicated to working with the Play Console and promoting games on Google Play. A series of interactive lessons can be completed both on a desktop and on a mobile phone. Academy for App Success is not available in Russian yet.

Mobile Developer Days

Conferences for game developers will be held at GDC 2019 (starting on March 18). In particular, Google experts will talk about creating a profitable business in the mobile market, about monetization of game projects and improving their quality. For those who will not be able to visit San Francisco, Google will launch an online broadcast.

In addition, the company is preparing a series of events for indie developers. No details yet.

Also on the topic:

Tags: