What is MAGfest Indie Retro?

MAGfest Indie Retro is proudly celebrating its 6th year as part of MAGfest. Located near the MAGfest Indie Videogame Showcase, we’re most easily identified by the couches and CRT televisions with beeps and boops pouring out of them.

The event runs 24 hours a day and has a curated batch of new and fan-beloved games for everyone to enjoy.

Flash Cart Roulette

Didn't make it in time for the  Homebrew Showcase 2024 submission deadline, and want to be part of the fun? Never fear, retro friends, we have two TVs dedicated to FLASH CART ROULETTE.

Flash Cart Roulette includes additional ROM submissions ready to tickle your fancy. This year's flash cart includes 200+ previous year submissions!

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!