Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov visited the festival venue and reviewed the expo zones and startup projects presented as part of the event.

During the visit, the Minister explored the Game Jam and GameDev sections of the festival, where 90 teams presented game prototypes developed during a 36-hour marathon, alongside innovative projects created by local developers and programmers.

It was noted that the projects demonstrated the rapidly growing potential of Uzbekistan’s national game development industry and the increasing interest of young specialists in the creative technology sector.

Particular attention was also given to animation and VFX projects showcased in the Creative Tech area. Young creators presented 3D works and national animation projects developed using platforms such as Blender, Unreal Engine and Cinema 4D, which received high praise from participants and international guests.

The festival additionally hosted a series of meetings and discussions with global industry representatives, including Eduardo Pena and Mike Morris, focusing on opportunities to position Uzbekistan as a regional hub for the gaming and creative industries.

One of the key highlights of the event was the awards ceremony recognizing the best startups, Game Jam participants and young animation creators. Representatives of international venture capital firms, including Behold Ventures, United Ventures and Ludus Ventures, took part in the ceremony.

Participants noted that the partnerships and investment interest generated during the festival would create additional opportunities for local startups and creative teams to expand into international markets.

“GameFest 2026” has been recognized not only as a major celebration of technology and creativity, but also as an important international platform contributing to the further development of Uzbekistan’s gaming, animation and broader creative industries.