8Bit/Digi

Kicking off GDC 2026 with Day of the Devs

Day Zero of the 2026 Game Developers Conference began with a staple of the Bay Area games scene. Organized by Double Fine Productions and iam8bit, Day of the Devs 2026 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 2026.

The Games at Day of the Devs

These are some of the games I got to check out during the Day of the Devs 2026:

ZERO PARADES: For Dead Spies is the latest game from the creators of Disco Elysium. Players take on the role of CASCADE, a spy brought back for one last mission and a chance at redemption. During my playthrough, I was tasked with examining a room for clues and piecing together what happened to our person of interest. You must use your skills as a spy while trying to keep your anxiety under control. When done with the assignment, you walk out only to be met with a hostile encounter between another contact and a suspicious person. My playthrough ended after de-escalating the situation between the two people.

Dead as Disco is an over-the-top beat ’em up that blends a love of fighting games with music. Players take on the role of Charlie Disco, a fallen icon trying to reclaim the spotlight from his former bandmates. My playthrough began with the tutorial, where I was introduced to the combat mechanics and how proper timing syncs your attacks to the beat of the song. This was followed by a brawl at a digital concert that put my skills to the test. My overall impression is that the combat is responsive, the music slaps, and the visual design choices help bring this world to life.

Rogue Eclipse is an arcade space combat game inspired by Star Fox with a blend of Arabesque Futurism. Players begin each mission by customizing their ship with the required parts and upgrades based on their combat style. Once ready, you are tossed into the battle against enemy forces near a planet. After defeating all foes, you make a jump to the next stage. However, it was not an easy game as you will have your skills put to the test – regardless of how many hours you’ve spent playing Star Fox.

Pro Jank Footy is an arcade-style party game in which two players take part in the wackiest version of Australian football imaginable. Two teams face off on the field and must get the ball through the goal to score. Playing into the idea that the rules are made up as the match goes on, anything can happen, including sudden rule changes or the experience becoming even more wacky. I did not get the chance to play it myself, but it was fun watching others do so.

Networking and More

Day of the Devs wasn’t just about playing unique games as it was also a chance for attendees arriving for GDC to connect. The patio was open and the weather was surprisingly warm. Drinks were served, and two food trucks offered a variety of options to suit everyone’s tastes.

Overall, Day of the Devs was the perfect event to kick off GDC 2026.

This article is part of our coverage of the 2026 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.