ABOUT THE
CEREMONY
Debug’s Indie Game Awards show is dedicated to independent games and the people who make them, spotlighting the best and the brightest globally – Possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of GameMaker™
Our first in person ceremony took place in February 2024, with the goal of bringing the indie community together face to face and giving developers the chance to celebrate their work in a dedicated IRL setting
NOMINATIONS
PROCESS
Some categories see studios nominating themselves, while others are nominated and voted on by the public *
Submissions for all categories were open until 1 February 2026, and shortlisted nominees will be announced on Friday 27 March 2026
AWARD CATEGORIES
Award for Mental Health
Award for Accessibility
Best Voice Acting
Best Soundtrack
Best Sound Design
Best Art Direction
Best Gameplay
Best Narrative
Best VR Game
Best UK Indie
Innovation & Creativity Award
Physical Release of the Year
Free Play Award
Retro World Award
Best New Studio
Subscribers’ Choice Award *
Debug Game of the Year
Most Anticipated Award *
Long Term Support Award *
ICYMI Award *
Best PR Campaign
Best Influencer Marketing
Most Influential Person
TICKETS
The Indie Game Awards 2026 take place on 25 April 2026
Free tickets to attend in person are available as part of the Debug Games Festival. The ceremony will also be streamed live on YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok at 8pm GMT
For press and content creator enquiries, please email: [email protected]
Location: Norfolk Showground Arena, Norwich, UK
SUBMIT A GAME
Thank you everyone for your submissions! Entries are now closed. If you have any queries please reach out to us on [email protected]
Final nominees for all categories will be announced on Friday 27 March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there food and drink on site?
The event has a well-stocked bar with soft drinks and alcohol, as well as a selection of snacks, sandwiches, and wraps. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. Please speak to a member of staff if you have any dietary requirements or allergy concerns.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes. The venue is fully accessible with step free entry throughout, accessible toilets, and wide aisles across the show floor. Designated seating areas are available near stages, and assistance dogs are welcome. If you have specific access needs, our team will be on hand to help you throughout the day. More information about the venue can be found on their website.
How do I get into the event?
Access to the Indie Game Awards, and the Debug Games Festival as a whole, are controlled by venue staff and Debug lanyards must be worn at all times. Upon arrival, please show your QR code to the Debug representative at reception and collect your lanyard.
Please note; lanyards may be briefly removed whilst on stage, or when taking photographs.
Does it cost anything to submit my game?
There is zero cost to submit your game, and we do not charge nominees to attend the Indie Game Awards.
Can I attend as press?
Passes are available for members of the press. Please email [email protected] with details of your publication.