Freeplay: Parallels, a cornerstone of Australia’s indie game scene, is set to captivate audiences once again in 2025. The event, renowned for its unique blend of developer talks and hands-on game experiences, marks its eleventh year. This follows a monumental tenth-anniversary celebration that left a lasting impression on attendees during the Melbourne International Games Week and PAX Australia.
Louie Roots, one of the co-leads at Freeplay, shared insights into the evolution and future of the event. Reflecting on the journey from its inception to its current scale, Roots noted, “It was started eleven years ago by Freeplay’s then-director, Dan Golding. We’ve tried to keep with his original concept; it’s just gradually become bigger-scale. It’s still heartfelt talks and experimental games from independent local game makers, but in his time, it had about a hundred attendees in a smaller venue, and now we run it in a larger place for around a thousand attendees.”
From Humble Beginnings to a Major Event
The growth of Freeplay: Parallels from a modest gathering to a significant event highlights the increasing interest in indie games. Originally, the showcase format meant attendees left after the talks, but recent changes have made the event more social. “Now we’re in the town hall and there’s space for playable games, attendees have something to stick around for after the talks, and that also means people have the opportunity to chat and socialise,” Roots explained.
However, the event’s expansion has not been without challenges. “Every year, the funds available from local arts orgs and the industry change, which means we have to spend a lot longer than we’d like running around trying to figure out who can help make the event happen,” Roots said. The call for more stable, multi-year funding resonates with many in the creative industries, where financial uncertainty can stifle innovation.
A Diverse Selection of Games
This year’s lineup includes titles such as Isopod: A Webbed Spine-Off, Pro Jank Footy, and Cast n Chill. The selection process involves exploring projects across Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia, seeking out experimental and exciting games. “We want to see the developer reflected in the work,” Roots emphasized, highlighting the importance of diverse voices and underrepresented artists.
Among the anticipated showcases, Sbug Games will present a playable version of Isopod, while Leura Smith will debut her work-in-progress Canvas Street. These games represent a broad spectrum of styles, from the frenetic energy of Pro Jank Footy to the serene, input-free experience of Cast n Chill.
Embracing Innovation and Addressing Challenges
The event also navigates the complex landscape of emerging technologies like AI and Web3. While there are no specific rules against these technologies, Roots expressed a cautious openness: “There are a lot of corporate bad actors making and using tech in exploitative ways that we wouldn’t want to platform, but there are also experiments that it’s interesting to talk about.”
Roots cited a talk from Parallels 2023 by Ben Koder, which explored the use of an Nvidia tool for generating landscape photos in his game Through the Lens. The discussion highlighted both the creative potential and the vulnerabilities of relying on corporate technologies.
The Community and Future of Freeplay: Parallels
As Freeplay: Parallels 2025 approaches, the excitement is palpable. “The most exciting thing about every Parallels is the atmosphere that comes with a community of passionate game makers,” Roots shared. The event not only showcases games but also fosters a sense of community among developers and attendees.
Looking ahead, Roots hopes the event will inspire attendees to embrace creativity and experimentation. “I want people to get excited about making experimental works and showing their humanity through their play, and most of all, just get out and make shit. Make games, make events, make fun and play wherever they can.”
Tickets for Freeplay: Parallels 2025 are still available, and with the event’s growing popularity, they are expected to sell out quickly. For those interested in the cutting edge of indie gaming, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
Louie Roots’ insights underscore the dynamic nature of the indie game scene and the vital role events like Freeplay: Parallels play in nurturing creativity and community. As the event continues to evolve, it remains a beacon for innovation and artistic expression in the gaming industry.
