The Iris Games 2026 Awards, an Andalusian competition based in Málaga, have opened their call for indie video game studios and creators. The deadline ends on May 17. Titles published between July 2025 and May 2026 are accepted, as well as projects with a playable demo. The goal is to give visibility to emerging talent, distributing 44,000 euros across nine categories. The gala will be on July 3 at FYCMA, within the Andalucía Play Fest.
Technical requirements and categories of the competition 🎮
Participants must submit published games or playable demos within the specified period. The nine categories range from artistic design to gameplay innovation. The jury will evaluate aspects such as technical optimization, narrative, and user experience. Studios can opt for cash prizes totaling 44,000 euros. The event at FYCMA in Málaga will serve as a meeting point for developers, investors, and publishers, facilitating contacts and funding opportunities for projects in development.
The big prize so you don't have to sell your soul to a publisher 💸
Because yes, 44,000 euros sounds good, but remember you'll have to share it with eight other winners. That said, at least you won't have to sign a lifetime rights transfer contract with a major publisher. The event promises to connect creators with investors, but don't get your hopes up: you might end up selling your game for a handful of coins and a free coffee. At least the coffee in Málaga is decent.