8Bit/Digi

Kicking off GDC 2025 with Day of the Devs

Day Zero of the 2025 Game Developers Conference began with a staple of the Bay Area games scene. Organized by Double Fine Productions and iam8bit, Day of the Devs brought together indie game developers from across the country to showcase their work at The Midway in San Francisco.

Day of the Devs provided an opportunity to explore the latest indie titles while allowing developers to connect and network. I attended to try out upcoming games and gain insight directly from the developers behind them. It was also an opportunity to have a good idea of what to expect going into GDC 2025.

The Games at Day of the Devs

These are some of the games I got to check out during the Day of the Devs:

My Arms Are Longer Now is a physics-based puzzle game that blends humor with a heist-like adventure. Players use their elongated arms to navigate levels, steal valuable items, and overcome various obstacles to claim their loot. During my playthrough, I was tasked with stealing a bicycle and a briefcase handcuffed to its owner—all while avoiding the transit cop checking for tickets. No launch date has been set but the goal is sometime in late 2025 or early 2026.

Altered Alma is a cyberpunk-themed Metroidvania where players step into the role of Jack as she fights to escape Neo-Barcelona. My playthrough covered the game’s opening, where Jack meets potential allies who could aid her escape by repairing The Esperanza. At the same time, I familiarized myself with the combat and gameplay mechanics while navigating this gritty, neon-lit world.

Tamashika is a fast-paced, arcade-inspired shooter developed by Vidhvat Madan and published by EDGLRD Games. My playthrough was all about first getting into the groove, and then pushing to get as far as possible. The action is relentless, leaving little time to think—it’s either move and fight or start over. Its visual design perfectly captures the mood it aims for: a whirlwind of fast-paced chaos.

Jay and Silent Bob: Chronic Blunt Punch is a side-scrolling beat ’em up featuring the iconic duo from the View Askewniverse. I teamed up with one of the developers and fought through a stage, battling foes inspired by characters from the duo’s many films while navigating familiar locations. Along the way, we bonded over our shared love of Kevin Smith’s work—especially Dogma, Mallrats, and Clerks: The Animated Series. The game felt like The Simpsons arcade classic but reimagined in the View Askewniverse, packed with Street Fighter references.

Networking and More

Day of the Devs wasn’t just about playing unique games—it was also a chance for attendees arriving from GDC to connect. The patio was open and the weather was chili but also welcoming. Drinks were served, and two food trucks offered a variety of options to suit everyone’s tastes. Overall it was the perfect event to kick off GDC 2025.

This article is part of our coverage of the 2025 Game Developers Conference. If you attended the event, please share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Disclaimer: GDC provided 8Bit/Digi with press passes for the event.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.