- The Opportunity: A chance for 80 independent developers to showcase their games at TGS 2026 for free.
- The Deadline: Applications are open until April 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM JST.
- The New Feature: Introduction of the SI80 Excellence Awards to recognize high-quality indie craftsmanship.
- The Event: TGS 2026 celebrates its 30th anniversary with a record-breaking 5-day schedule at Makuhari Messe.
The Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA) has officially announced the first wave of sponsors for the “SELECTED INDIE 80 (SI80)” project, a cornerstone initiative for independent developers at Tokyo Game Show 2026.
Confirmed sponsors include industry titans and incubators such as Nintendo, KODANSHA, PLAYISM, iGi indie Game incubator, CRI Middleware, Amakusa City, ASK, auryn, and WitOne.
Free Global Stage for Independent Creators
The SELECTED INDIE 80 project is designed to lower the barrier to entry for solo developers and small studios. Regardless of nationality, age, or occupation, creators can apply for a chance to exhibit their work at no cost.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
- Revenue Cap: Annual revenue must be under $500,000 USD (under $100,000 USD for individuals).
- Independence: The studio must maintain complete capital independence.
- Originality: The game must be an original IP.
- Compliance: Must adhere to CESA and CERO ethical standards and hold a valid platform development license.
Selected titles receive:
- A fully sponsored booth in the Indie Game Area.
- Complimentary equipment loans (PCs and display monitors).
- Inclusion in the TGS 2026 special Steam event page.
- Early Bird Benefit: The first 40 applicants to be selected will have the privilege of choosing their specific booth location.
Recognizing Quality: The SI80 Excellence Awards
New for 2026, CESA has established the SI80 Excellence Awards. While the traditional “Sense of Wonder Night (SOWN)” focuses on pure innovation and unique ideas, this new award category will evaluate games based on overall completion, experience value, and artistic quality.
Approximately 10 titles will be selected in August, with an official awards ceremony taking place during TGS. Winning booths will be marked with a prestigious award seal, providing a significant boost in visibility to media, business partners, and the expected 300,000 visitors. All SI80 titles are automatically entered as candidates for SOWN 2026, which is scheduled for September 17.
TGS 2026: The Longest Five Days of Nonstop Play
Commemorating its 30th anniversary, Tokyo Game Show 2026 will run for an unprecedented five days, from September 17 to 21.
The expanded schedule includes:
- Business Days (Sept 17–18): Dedicated to industry networking and b2b partnerships.
- Public Days (Sept 19–21): Focused on consumer hands-on experiences and community events.
By securing sponsors ranging from Nintendo to the iGi incubator (the first of its kind in Japan led by Marvelous), CESA has solidified a robust support network for the indie ecosystem.
SELECTED INDIE 80 (TGS 2026) Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
| Organizer | Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA) |
| Event Dates | September 17 – 21, 2026 (5 days) |
| Location | Makuhari Messe, Chiba, Japan |
| Key Sponsors | Nintendo, Kodansha, PLAYISM, iGi, CRI Middleware, etc. |
| Selection Slots | 80 Titles |
| Application Deadline | April 30, 2026, 5:00 PM JST |
| Notification Date | Around May 20, 2026 |
| Special Awards | SI80 Excellence Awards (~10 winners) |
Official Website: TGS 2026 Indie Game Page
