Devolver Digital offers GDC demo space to those affected by immigration ban

Hotline Miami, Downwell and Shadow Warrior publisher Devolver Digital is offering to demo games by developers unable to attend GDC in light of the Trump administration's immigration ban.

Last Friday Donald Trump issued an executive order denying US entry to all citizens of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia. The ban is in effect for 90 days and includes even those with green cards.

While the contentious ban is being fought by the American Civil Liberties Union and countless lawyers, politicians and protesters, it is unlikely to be resolved before GDC kicks off on 27th February in San Francisco. A ban like this affects everyone, including video game developers.

To combat this injustice, Devolver Digital is currently taking submissions from developers affected by the ban so it can promote the work of those unable to attend. The publisher's offsite demo space will contain several gaming PCs and HTC Vive units, if relevant.

"One of my favourite things about games is that they are truly global in nature, transcending borders and cultural differences more seamlessly than other art forms, and working with different people from all over the world with wildly varying backgrounds has been a huge part of Devolver's success and of our personal enjoyment of what we do," said Devolver co-founder Mike Wilson.

"We are happy to have the opportunity to help create a bridge in some small way for some of the talented developers who will unfortunately be unable to attend this year's GDC."

Developers interested in partaking in Devolver's offer are asked to submit their studio name, a description of their game, their country of origin, and a link to some gameplay (if available) to fork@devolverdigital.com.

Devolver noted that it will prioritise the applications of those who were already set to attend GDC only to have their plans put on hold due to the immigration ban.