Whether you’re a solo developer or part of an indie studio, there’s no better event to boost your game’s visibility than the Montreal International Game Summit (MIGS). Imagine seeing your game mentioned in news stories, sparking conversations on social media, and capturing the attention of industry veterans and fresh faces alike. MIGS offers the perfect platform to make your project the talk of the town—literally speaking. 

For over 15 years, MIGS has been one of the cornerstones of the gaming industry tradeshows, standing as one of the largest and most prestigious game conferences on the East Coast of North America. This annual gathering takes place in Montreal, Canada, a city that has become a thriving hub for game development.

What Makes MIGS Different from other trade shows?

In the crowded world of gaming expos and conferences, what makes MIGS stand out? Like other trade shows, it’s a chance to find the resources you need to take your project to the next level—whether that’s refining game design, securing investment, or expanding your team. However, MIGS 2023 has one clear focus: B2B opportunities.

Home to over 200 game studios and more than 40,000 full-time industry professionals, Montreal shines through the industry more and more. And when MIGS rolls around, it becomes the beating heart of North American game development, attracting professionals from across the globe. Whether you’re a rising star or an established studio, it’s where the magic happens.

From industry titans like Ubisoft, Bethesda, and Square Enix to exciting startups, MIGS brings together a vibrant mix of talent and opportunity. The unique energy of Montreal—a city where passion for gaming runs deep—makes MIGS an unmissable experience.

Following this year's goal, through B2B opportunities, studios can focus on business development, human resources professionals, and even investors who are quite aware of the ever-growing market that has positively impacted Montréal’s economy. The event also features top-tier panels and sessions, with industry leaders discussing trends, sharing insights, and debating the future of gaming.

This year’s B2B focus means business development and networking take center stage. You’ll have the chance to connect with human resources professionals, investors, and industry leaders who are keenly aware of gaming’s growing economic footprint. From top-tier panels to hands-on workshops, you’ll learn about the latest trends and strategies while building relationships that could define your future.

The networking alone can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking for a potential business partner or seeking feedback from peers, MIGS fosters collaborations that can propel your career and projects forward. It’s where new ventures are born, deals are made, and long-lasting partnerships take root.

How to use MIGS for your Game’s Success

MIGS offers a rare opportunity to gain the kind of exposure most indie developers only dream of. Media coverage—news articles, features like the one you’re reading, and social media buzz—will be key to spreading the word about your game. But preparation is vital if you want to stand out.

One of your most important tools? A well-crafted pitch deck. This is your chance to condense your game’s vision, appeal, and roadmap into a brief, impactful presentation. Highlight the unique proposition your game brings to the table, the problem it solves, and how it’s going to wow players. Make sure to include key details like your budget and projected release schedule.

But don’t stop there. Networking is about making meaningful connections. Share your excitement, be approachable, and let your passion for your game shine through. Think of it like a job interview—sell your skills, but stay genuine. Smile, engage, and make a memorable impression. And don’t forget those business cards—they’re still a must-have! Add a modern twist with a QR code linking directly to your game’s demo or website.

Maximizing Your Impact at MIGS

MIGS is not just a showcase—it’s a stage. Developers, media professionals, and publishers will be watching, and this is your chance to wow them. Having a stunning visual presentation of your game could be the key to capturing their attention. Keep in mind that 64% of success still comes from good old-fashioned word of mouth, and the visibility you gain here could give your project the boost it needs.

It’s also a great opportunity for valuable feedback. With fellow developers on hand, take advantage of their expertise. Game testing and peer reviews are an excellent way to identify areas for improvement—especially if you’re a smaller or indie team. Pay close attention to their reactions, body language, and questions. Every interaction can give you insight into what resonates with players and industry insiders alike.

Learn, Grow, and Take It All In

MIGS is more than just a trade show—it’s a learning experience. Whether you’re attending a workshop or listening to a keynote speech, there’s knowledge everywhere. Use the feedback and insights you gather here to refine your project and approach. Even if you don’t agree with every piece of advice, take it all in stride—each bit of feedback can help you see your game from a fresh perspective.

By the time MIGS wraps up, your pockets will be full of business cards, and your mind buzzing with new ideas and opportunities. The road to game development success might be long, but events like MIGS provide the fuel to keep going. Industry experts are everywhere, ready to share their wisdom and maybe even offer a partnership that changes everything.

With dozens of trade shows happening every week, only a few are truly essential for indie developers, and MIGS is one of them. It’s a magical blend of creativity, business, and innovation. We wish you the best of luck at this year’s event—may it bring your game the success it deserves!

Oh, and don’t forget—if you loved this article, swing by Booth 13 to say hi and share the love!

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