Akron, Ohio—The Akron Art Museum is calling for submissions of video games and tabletop games from developers and game-creators for GameFest Akron (previously called Open World Arcade), a day-long indie game event held at the museum on Saturday, November 7, 2020. Game submissions will be accepted from March 1 through June 1, 2020. Games can be entered for free by going to https://akronartmuseum.wpengine.com/gamefestakron. Entries will be judged by a panel of museum staff and video game professionals based on novelty, professional polish, aesthetics, quality of game experience, and “wow factor.” Games do not need to be inspired by art or the Akron Art Museum collection.
Akron Art Museum Deputy Director and Chief Experience Officer Seema Rao noted “We’re excited to offer this day-long celebration of play and creativity to our visitors. Playing alongside the actual designers takes gaming to another level.” Last year’s event drew more than 500 patrons. The museum hopes to draw larger crowds this year by making the event free to museum members. Rao added, “Last year’s event had some of the most diverse audiences we’ve seen. Senior citizens played alongside teenagers. Adult children brought their parents. We can’t wait to see the audiences for this year’s event.”
Games submitted for entry don’t need to present art-related subject matter or adhere to an art theme. Curator of Exhibitions Theresa Bembnister notes, “The Akron Art Museum is dedicated to highlighting the best of contemporary creative expression. Indie game designers are producing extraordinary works. This year, we’ll be able to offer honoraria to the designers selected to showcase their work in November.”
Developers of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Both professional and student games will be accepted. Selected independently-designed games will be featured in GameFest Akron at the Akron Art Museum on Saturday, November 7, 2019 from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Ticketed by free for members. $15 for non-member adults. All children 12 and under free.