Developers from underrepresented groups around the world can now apply for the 2024 virtual Tentacle Zone Incubator, which supports early-stage game developers including those with disabilities. Applicants should already be developing their first PC or console game and need guidance and connections to help them progress through the development stages.
The three-month virtual program will start in February 2024. All participants will be matched with an industry mentor and benefit from peer-to-peer learning and networking. The cohort will also be offered a program of weekly talks and group sessions by different industry experts. So far, over 45 games industry peers have supported the program.
This program is also split into five tracks, co-curated by previous participants, industry experts and the incubator’s academic partner, the University of Greenwich. The tracks are – business and finance; team building; design, development and production; marketing and PR; and pitching and public speaking.
Fostering an equitable industry
Russ Clarke, CEO and co-founder of Payload Studios says, “The Tentacle Zone Incubator was founded to help foster a more equitable industry with more diverse games which represent everyone who plays games and wider society. This year we are opening the Incubator up to early stage founders globally, with a specific focus on PC and console developers.
“We are thrilled that the program is now in its third year and I want to thank all the incredible participants, mentors and industry expert tutors who have, and continue to support the program,” adds Clarke.
The application window is now open until January 11th, 2024 after which successful applicants will be contacted on January 26th. The incubator will commence on February 4th and will end with an industry showcase on May 3rd.
Indie game studio Payload Studios and the Tentacle Zone, with support from the University of Greenwich, offer the free Tentacle Zone Incubator program. Participants who complete the program will receive a Continuing Professional Development Certificate from the University of Greenwich.
Isa Muhammad is a writer and video game journalist covering many aspects of entertainment media including the film industry. He's steadily writing his way to the sharp end of journalism and enjoys staying informed. If he's not reading, playing video games or catching up on his favourite TV series, then he's probably writing about them.
