The 2025 PlayX4, Korea’s largest game show in the capital region, officially wrapped up after four days at KINTEX Exhibition Center 1 in Goyang from May 22 to 25, drawing over 115,000 visitors and achieving a record-breaking USD 2.03 billion in export consultations.
Under the theme “Beyond the Game,” this year’s PlayX4 demonstrated the strength of Korea’s indie game scene, with over 721 companies participating—including major publishers like Neowiz, Smilegate, Supercell Korea, Daiwon Media, Nimble Neuron, Bandai Namco, and Blizzard Entertainment, as well as dozens of emerging indie developers.
Indie Powerhouse: Expanded and Energized Showcase
This year, the spotlight was squarely on indie games, with over 100 indie booths curated by top platforms and organizations:
- Indie Oraksil (Korean Indie Game Association): Presented a wide range of Korean and global indie games through the Indieple community. Attendees engaged directly with developers, experienced diverse titles, and enjoyed mini-events and giveaways.
- Steam Deck Lounge: In partnership with Steam Deck, visitors tested various indie titles using the latest handheld gaming tech in a casual demo space.
- Online Integration: Smilegate’s STOVE Indie and Steam provided online exhibition spaces, offering global exposure for participants and providing download access to game demos, trailers, and event-linked content, streamlining both promotion and distribution.
- Gyeonggi Game Audition Top 10: Featured booths spotlighting the top finalists of Gyeonggi Province’s leading game audition, showcasing standout works in the K-Indie space.
Notably, Smilegate STOVE unveiled new indie titles such as Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Back Alley, while Neowiz launched an indie-themed zone called “Yupdori Land.” International indies like Brazil’s Pocket Trap (Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo) also joined the showcase.
Full-Spectrum Gaming and Esports
Beyond indie, the halls of KINTEX were packed with console, mobile, PC, arcade, and board games, offering a hands-on experience for all ages.
Supercell’s interactive arcade zone and a retro gaming market drew family crowds, while “Arcade Special Zone” expanded to 150 booths, reviving Korea’s nostalgic gaming culture.
A diverse eSports festival also took place, including:
- Disabled Gamer Championships
- University Team Tournaments
- Family vs. Family Matches
- Professional Brawl Stars Exhibition Matches
- Eternal Return Korea eSports League Opening Game
- ASL Season 19 Finals
All events were live-streamed for online audiences and received wide acclaim.
Business and Export Results: A Platform for Growth
The B2B zone evolved beyond simple meetings, offering Focus Group Testing (FGT), Game Auditions, and demo booths to help indie studios gather player feedback and secure partnerships.
A total of 563 companies (211 developers, 352 buyers) conducted 1,476 consultations, reaching a record USD 2.03 billion in export deal value—an 18.7% increase from 2024.
The on-site Matching Desk helped developers optimize movement and networking throughout the venue, contributing to seamless operations and business effectiveness.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Attendee Experience
PlayX4 2025 introduced improved entry systems, a clearer re-entry flow, and a better wayfinding system, significantly boosting convenience and safety. Amenities such as transport guidance, rest areas, and information desks were also upgraded.
Special consideration was given to cosplayers, with dedicated entry routes and photo zones enhancing both comfort and atmosphere.
Official Statement
Lee Sung-ho, Director of Gyeonggi Province’s Future Growth Industry Bureau, said:
“PlayX4 2025 has proven itself as a platform that reflects the innovation and potential of the game industry. Based on feedback from developers at this event, we will actively pursue funding opportunities and ecosystem development through Gyeonggi Game Connect 2025 in the second half of the year.”
