What is MAGFest Indie Retro?

Now in its 7th year, MAGFest Indie Retro is a beloved part of the MAGFest experience. Nestled near the MAGFest Indie Videogame Showcase, it’s easy to spot with its couches and classic CRT televisions buzzing with retro games.

This showcase features a carefully curated selection of brand-new homebrew games and fan-favorite classics, offering a nostalgic and fun-filled experience for gamers of all ages.

Whether you’re a seasoned developer or working on your first game, we want to see what you’ve got! Apply today and let your creation shine at one of the most exciting indie gaming events of the year. Submit your game by October 31st, and secure your spot in the 2025 showcase!

NOTE: The deadline for 2025 Homebrew Showcase submissions is October 31st, 2024 at 11:59pm EST.

Indie Retro Homebrew Showcase FAQ

I’M INTERESTED IN SUBMITTING MY HOMEBREW GAME. WHAT DO I NEED TO SUBMIT?

A “submission” consists of a build of the game, a handful of screenshots, and an indication of whether or not you’ll be able to attend in person. Please note that this is not explicitly required thanks to our volunteers, but is always prioritized.

IF I’M ACCEPTED, WHAT IS REQUIRED FROM ME?

In an ideal world, everyone is able to come in person to share their games with the fans. For folks that can’t attend, we’ll want you to participate in the social media amplification that summons players. 

WHAT ARE THE CONTENT GUIDELINES/POLICY FOR THE SHOWCASE?

Per the MAGFest Code of Conduct, all festival areas are considered "PG-15" at all times. In addition, all games should adhere to the ESRB Teen Rating guidelines.

I’M A PUBLISHER. CAN I SUBMIT A GAME I PUBLISH?

No, the game you're submitting to must be the creation of your studio, self, or team. Games may not be submitted by any team, studio, or developer that did not majorly assist in the creation of the game. This includes publishers or outsourced entities assisting in the management or marketing of the game shown. The relationship of the indie to the publisher as perceived by Indie Retro is at Indie Retro's discretion.

WILL GAMES SUBMITTED TO THE SHOWCASE BE REQUIRED TO BE COMPLETED BY THE TIME OF THE SHOWCASE?

No, partially completed games are accepted, but the more you have completed, the more helpful it will be to the judges.

HOW DO YOU DETERMINE WHO IS IN THE SHOWCASE?

Our team of judges will evaluate your entry. Those evaluations will determine if the game is accepted to the showcase.

IF I’M ACCEPTED, CAN I UPDATE MY GAME’S INFORMATION, PICTURES, VIDEO, ETC?

Yes, if updated 30 days before MAGFest.

I REQUIRE A SPECIFIC MODIFIED OR CUSTOM MAPPER TO PLAY MY GAME. CAN YOU EMULATE IT?

The Homebrew Showcase is hardware only. However, if you want to provide a physical copy, or showcase it in person, we can get to the fun part together!

CAN I SELL MY GAMES IN THE HOMEBREW SHOWCASE?

Vending is not currently permitted but may be open with coordination in the future!

AM I REQUIRED TO PROVIDE CONSOLES AND TELEVISIONS IF MY GAME IS SELECTED?

Consoles and televisions are provided for the showcase and factored into the layout and footprint of the area. With advance notice, we an accommodate special requests or custom set ups up to 30 days prior to MAGFest.

Check out some of our previous entries!