BitSummit: The 13th Summer of Yokai, Japan’s biggest indie game event, is officially set for July 18–20, 2025, in Kyoto. Known as the heart of Japan’s indie scene, BitSummit brings together developers, publishers, and players to spotlight unique and creative gaming experiences. This year’s mystical theme, inspired by Japanese yokai (supernatural spirits), is expected to influence both the design and storytelling of many featured titles.
A major highlight of this year’s event is Nintendo’s confirmed presence with an official booth, signaling strong support for the indie community. Nintendo’s involvement isn’t just symbolic—it often results in select indie titles getting featured on the Nintendo eShop, highlighted in Indie World showcases, or even receiving exclusive Switch ports or limited-time demos. For smaller developers, this kind of exposure can dramatically boost visibility and sales, especially for games that match Nintendo’s family-friendly or creatively bold aesthetics. Titles with cozy mechanics, pixel art, or strong narratives often benefit the most.
Nintendo’s booth could also serve as a testing ground for potential Switch 2-ready titles, giving fans and press a sneak peek at what’s to come. Whether you’re a developer hoping for that eShop spotlight or a player looking for the next breakout indie hit, BitSummit 2025 is shaping up to be a key event for the future of indie gaming in Japan and beyond.
