BitSummit, Japan’s top indie game festival, revealed its sponsors for the Summer of Yōkai theme. The event aims to celebrate Japan’s folklore and runs from July 18 to July 20 at Miyako Messe in Kyoto.

BitSummit is also glad to have returning sponsors like Sony, Nintendo, and Cygames, along with others such as Devolver Digital and ID@Xbox. New sponsors include Asobism and Pocketpair, celebrating Japanese summer festivities.

Whether you’re drawn by professional ties or a passion for indie games, everyone is invited to experience BitSummit:

For Industry Professionals

Friday, July 18, is dedicated as Business Day. Attendees will gain access to exclusive networking through the MeetToMatch platform, which connects developers, publishers, and media for in-person meetings. Business Day tickets also include admission to the public days over the weekend and the Friday night after-party.

For Fans and the General Public

On July 19 and 20, the event opens to all. Visitors can dive into hands-on demos of some of the most creative indie games from Japan and beyond, and meet the developers who made them. The weekend offers a rare chance to uncover indie treasures and experience the heart of the scene up close.

Tickets for both Business Day and Public Days can be purchased online at the following links:

• Domestic (JP)
• International (EN)

Main Features: Celebrating Indie Innovation

Since its humble beginnings in 2013, BitSummit has evolved into a globally recognized indie game festival, now drawing over 40,000 visitors in recent years. The 13th edition builds on this legacy with even more opportunities for discovery, networking, and creative expression.

Here’s what to expect at BitSummit the 13th:

• Playable Games: Experience a curated lineup of indie titles from around the globe. Whether on-site or through online demos, players can discover fresh ideas and unique gameplay.
• Influencer Booths: Interact with popular influencers as they stream and showcase games live, sharing the excitement of the event with audiences worldwide.
• Official Live Streaming: BitSummit’s own broadcast channels will feature live event coverage, giving remote fans a front-row seat to the action.
• B2B Networking: Industry professionals, developers, and publishers can meet in dedicated areas to forge partnerships and collaborate on new ventures.
• Media Access: Journalists and content creators will have the chance to connect with developers for exclusive insights and stories behind the games.

BitSummit has become a unique event where industry professionals and fans come together to appreciate the work of Japan’s indie developers. John Davis, co-founder, highlights the friendships formed and opportunities discovered during the festival. The event in Kyoto promises to be another memorable celebration of creativity and connection, with a touch of yōkai mischief.

Event Details

Dates: Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 20

Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM JST

Broadcast: Main stage events will be streamed live in both Japanese and English via YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok.

More announcements, including details on exhibiting titles, special guest speakers, streaming sessions, influencers, and sponsors will be revealed in the coming weeks. For updates, visit the BitSummit official website or follow the official social media pages on Facebook, X, and Instagram.