GDC Play invites indies

The organizers of the Game Developers Conference (GDC) have announced a new program that's aimed at offering an "opportunity for emerging and independent developers to showcase their games" at upcoming GDC events. Inspired by the Independent Games Festival Pavilion at previous shows, GDC Play will provide developers a kiosk equipped with a monitor, keyboard, and speakers. The press release calls this "an incredibly simple, low-cost opportunity to exhibit titles to prospective business partners, investors and the press."

So how much is this "low-cost opportunity"? Packages start at $3,000. In addition to the kiosk, the price includes a guaranteed spot on Gamasutra promoting the company and its products. The most expensive option, priced at $30,000, offers placement at the GDC Play VIP Reception.

The first event to offer the GDC Play program will be GDC Online 2011, to be held in Austin from October 10th through the 13th. A "much expanded presence" will be offered at GDC 2012 in San Francisco next year. "We expect this new, playable game area to be quite the draw and catalyst for business," Meggan Scavio, GM of GDC events said in a prepared statement.