There’s a plethora of quirky, artistic and alternative video games to play at Day of the Devs, a free event celebrating indie games at the Midway on Sunday, March 17. From 3 to 8 p.m., the San Francisco venue will be outfitted with rows of different types of consoles, and attendees are invited to roll up any time to get in on the action.
Some of the games at Day of the Devs haven’t been released yet, and the event is a prime opportunity to find your next favorite before it becomes an indie darling. Highlights include Amanita Design’s Phonopolis, a puzzle game where the objective is to thwart an authoritarian ruler who exercises mind control over the townsfolk, rendered in 2D, steam punk-inspired animation. From a very different aesthetic universe, Blue Manchu’s Wild Bastards, a technicolor first-person shooter set in a world of intergalactic outlaws, promises “heart-pounding” combat.
While some games test players’ strategy and speed, others like Surf Club are more about the emotional journey. The adorably animated (think Sanrio meets Animal Crossing), nostalgia-fueled game follows Holly, who moves back to her hometown of Olive Bay to try to reconnect with her former partner and best friend while catching waves in an idyllic seaside setting.
While not all recent video game news has been positive, with layoffs sweeping the industry, Day of the Devs offers a space for small developers to connect IRL with their most passionate players, and for casual gamers to get to know new studios and platforms. There will be 50 games in total at the event, and many of the creators will be in attendance and available to answer questions. A selection of food trucks will be on hand so players can refuel during screen breaks, and DJ Doseone will provide a soundtrack while folks mingle.
