Canadian Game Developers Withdraw from GDC Amid Rising Tensions

March 14, 2025 - 22:52

Amid deteriorating relations between the US and Canada, many Canadian video game developers are opting not to travel to San Francisco for next week's Game Developers Conference (GDC). This decision comes as a response to increasing concerns regarding cross-border travel and the current political climate.

The GDC, a significant event for networking, learning, and showcasing innovations in the gaming industry, typically attracts thousands of developers from around the world. However, this year’s conference is seeing a notable decline in attendance from Canadian professionals.

Industry insiders suggest that the ongoing tensions may lead to heightened scrutiny at borders, creating an uncomfortable environment for attendees. Additionally, some developers have expressed concerns about the potential impact of travel restrictions and health protocols on their ability to participate fully in the conference.

As the gaming community grapples with these challenges, many hope for improved relations that would facilitate collaboration and innovation across borders in the future.