
"What do Apple’s app store policies, the design of game spaces, and the problem of violence and other questionable material in games have in common? Not much, really, except that they’re all subjects discussed in today’s Developer Links." - Erik Johnson

These aren’t nostalgia grabs or gimmick-laden throwbacks. They each bring something genuinely fresh to the table, mechanics that feel baked into the exploration and combat, not just tacked on.

Play as Dik, a nimble acrobat exploring the depths of Hell to rescue his brother from the Devil’s hands. With no weapons to rely on, success hinges on mastery of physics-driven movement, and quick adaptation to deadly obstacles.

GDC 2025 has revealed the finalists for the 27th annual Independent Games Festival (IGF).