GDC Festival of Gaming is introducing streamlined pass types and other major content shake-ups for the 37-year-old event.

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GDC 2026 is introducing major changes with a simplified pass structure and reduced pricing. The new Festival Pass costs $649 (45% less than previous All-Access passes) and provides equal access to all sessions and networking events. The conference now features three pass types: Festival Pass, Digital Pass ($799), and Game Changer Pass ($1,699). Additional discounts of up to $200 are available for indies, startups, and academics. The restructured event aims to serve a broader gaming ecosystem beyond traditional game makers, including publishers, investors, and technologists, with unified content programming spanning all five days.

GDC 2026 lowers ticket prices, streamlines pass types

An "All Access" GDC now costs 45 percent less

Meeting "today's broader, interconnected" industry