Amidst rising concerns over various domestic issues in the US, GamesIndustry has reported that the Game Developers Conference (GDC) will once again be held in San Francisco next year. This has reignited industry discussions regarding costs and accessibility.

GDC is a premier global event where game developers gather to share visions and technologies. Starting with GDC 2026, the operational format has slightly changed, expanding programs from the Moscone Center to the broader San Francisco cityscape.

However, industry reactions are mixed. While some appreciate the increased networking opportunities, others point to the burden of increased travel and the high cost of living in a major US city. Cost has long been a primary challenge associated with GDC. San Francisco, home to major IT and game companies like Uber, Ubisoft, Zynga, Instagram, and GitHub, is known for having some of the highest living and accommodation costs in the US.

It has been noted that hotel and transportation costs tend to surge during the event. Combined with high GDC pass prices, this poses a significant burden for small-to-medium studios, indie developers, and international participants. Recent industry-wide job instability has further complicated participation, intensifying the debate over GDC's accessibility.

In this climate, the unstable political situation in the US has become a critical factor for international attendees. A year into the second Trump administration, ongoing international conflicts and stricter immigration policies have led some global companies to adjust their staff travel plans. While organizers state that international participation remains within expected ranges, some firms are reportedly looking toward other global events instead.

Meanwhile, there are suggestions within the US to consider more cost-effective cities like Las Vegas or Texas as alternatives. Some have even raised the possibility of hosting the event in neighboring countries like Canada.