State of Play Opens Submissions for 2026 Survey
State of Play, an independent organisation dedicated to promoting the work of video game developers based in New South Wales (NSW), has launched its 2026 survey. This initiative aims to provide a detailed overview of the challenges and achievements faced by independent game developers operating within the state. By gathering sufficient data, State of Play can use the survey results to advocate for improved funding opportunities and support for the sector’s future growth.
The NSW Independent Developer Survey is now open, and all NSW-based video game developers are encouraged to participate. The survey seeks to collect information on the current state of the local games industry and identify areas where changes are needed. According to State of Play, developers of all sizes, including those who have recently left NSW for various reasons, are welcome to take part.
The survey covers a wide range of topics, such as the developer’s location, age, job position, experience level, the cost of shipping games, potential funding support, studio size, and more. The collected data will be used to inform the annual report produced by State of Play, which is said to be instrumental in shaping the strategies of screen bodies, state and federal government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders.
Understanding the Mission of State of Play
For State of Play, the survey is a crucial tool for gaining insights into the current state of game development in NSW. This information will help the organisation present a clear picture to funding bodies, enabling them to better support the local industry. The organisation focuses on improving funding and support within the state, particularly in areas such as production and mid-career development. It also aims to increase the visibility of NSW indie games, foster community engagement, and carry out advocacy work.
The team behind State of Play consists of experienced local NSW developers, organisers, and advocates who self-fund the organisation’s activities. The board includes several notable figures:
- Rick Salter – Co-founder of Hojo Studio and creator of The Godfeather, with over 20 years of experience in indie game development.
- Luella Moore – Former Games Festival Manager at SXSW Sydney, with extensive experience as a program producer for high-profile organisations.
- Emre Deniz – A multi-award-winning games producer and technology developer who has worked with NASA, Epic Games, Microsoft, and Google.
- Margaret Anderson – Previously served as Director of the Australian Classification Board.
- Nico King – Co-founder of Chaos Theory Games, known for titles like Crab God and Rusthaven.
- Josh Hallaran – Founder of Critical Games, responsible for 8-Bit Adventures.
- Ben Armstrong – A veteran of the technology and creative industries with over 20 years of experience, and winner of the 2024 AGDAs Rising Star award.
- Tegan Jones – An award-winning games and technology journalist and podcaster.
- Stephanie Salter – Executive producer and COO of Hojo Studio.
With their diverse backgrounds and deep knowledge of the NSW games industry, the team is committed to using their expertise to elevate the profile of NSW-made games and developers.
Industry Insights and Future Prospects
In addition to the survey, recent reports highlight the ongoing success of the Australian video game industry. The Interactive Games & Entertainment Association (IGEA) has released a comprehensive breakdown of the local industry’s performance in FY25, confirming a stable environment despite years of economic challenges.
According to IGEA, Australian video game studios generated $608.5 million in revenue during this period. This data was derived from the 10th annual Australian Game Developer Survey Snapshot and supplementary material from intelligence firm Sensor Tower. The findings suggest a maturing industry, with both new and established teams contributing to the creation of games.
This stability indicates that the industry is evolving and becoming more resilient. As more developers participate in surveys like the one conducted by State of Play, the data gathered will play a critical role in shaping the future of game development in NSW and beyond.
Key Takeaways from the Survey
Participation in the NSW Independent Developer Survey offers several benefits, including:
- Access to a platform where developers can share their experiences and challenges.
- Contribution to a broader understanding of the industry’s needs and opportunities.
- Potential influence on policy decisions and funding allocations.
- Increased visibility for independent games and developers across the state.
By taking part in the survey, developers can help shape the future of the industry and ensure that their voices are heard by key stakeholders.
