Indie Megabooth is going into ‘hibernation’

‘Going Away’ Steam sale planned for May 5, 2020

The organizers of the Indie Megabooth have made the call to “sunset” their game-showcasing operation “for the duration of the pandemic” due to the “cancellation of many in-person events and the high level of uncertainty.” It’s the right decision – the only decision, really – but it’s still a bummer.

Indie Megabooth founder Kelly Wallick called the move “difficult and disappointing” in a blog post today. “Realistically though, we’re a very small team and this situation is bigger than us. Our primary focus right now is to stay healthy and safe through the COVID-19 situation as it’s unfolding.”

As a sendoff, the team is hosting one final Going Away (For Now) Sale on Steam with 100-plus video game deals for “old and new favorite IMB titles.” The one-week sale kicks off May 5, 2020.

“The developers participating will do a ‘pay what you want’ revenue share at the end, and we’ve set up a PayPal link for anyone who just wants to contribute to IMB directly,” she said. “The proceeds will be used to wrap up our financial obligations, set aside some money for maintenance and help support the transition. Think of it as a thank you for our work in the past and to help us land on our feet.”

It’s been a pleasure to see the Indie Megabooth blossom over the past eight years (has it really been that long?). Checking out the team’s well-curated games was always at the top of my to-do list at events like PAX and GDC. Even if I couldn’t squeeze in, I tried to jot down names as much as possible.

Wallick says she’ll keep the “Alumni list, mailing list, Discord, and social media channels alive while we’re in hibernation. But this work will not be as active, since I’ll be the only one maintaining things for now.”

Rebooting the Indie Megabooth when the time comes won’t be simple. I wish them all the best.