GameNExt, an offshoot of the highly successful TechNExt conference, made its debut this year on 15 June at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
The event, which attracted over 160 delegates from across the North East of England, Teesside and from around the UK, was designed to bring together games developers, studios, students, investors and industry leaders from across the UK to explore the future of the games industry.
Delegates heard note speeches and panel discussions, took part in networking sessions and game showcases, and connected with others in the industry across the one-day conference in Gateshead.
Sunderland Software City partnered with Gateshead Council, alongside numerous local Games studios and sponsors Ward Hadaway, Coatsink and Digital Catapult to bring the event to fruition, recognising the resilience and success of the North East’s gaming industry.
Following the success of this year’s edition, organisers have confirmed GameNExt will return in 2027 with ambitions to make the event even bigger and attract expert speakers from across the global games industry.
Alex Cook, Head of Innovation Delivery, Sunderland Software City, said: “TechNExt has grown year on year, but 2026 was the first time we were able to deliver a dedicated Games industry event as part of the programme. We had huge interest in the event, and the large turnout really highlights how important the sector is to the region and the wider tech sector. The Glasshouse International Centre for Music was the perfect place to host what was an incredible day of insights from the region’s industry leaders.”
Andrew Marshall, Service Director – Business, Employment & Skills, Gateshead Council, said: “GameNExt 2026 was a brilliant moment for Gateshead’s gaming cluster where we were able to bring together the regional industry to drive forward innovation and discuss the future. Gateshead’s gaming ecosystem is innovative and resilient and I am proud that we can continue to support the businesses here as well as attract more that can come and take advantage of the fantastic facilities we have in the town.”
