The Taipei Game Show (TGS) concluded successfully again this year. By encompassing everything from global blockbusters to board games and indie titles, TGS aims to establish itself as the game show that kicks off the industry calendar each year.

We sat down with a representative from TGS who visited PlayX4 to get their perspective on other game shows and hear about their vision for next year. We spoke with Sunny Chen of the Taipei Computer Association (TCA), the organizer of TGS, to discuss her impressions of PlayX4 2026, the future direction of TGS, and current trends in the Taiwanese gaming market.

The 2026 Taipei Game Show was a great success. As an organizer, what was your most memorable moment this year?

" This year actually set a new record for TGS in terms of visitor numbers since the pandemic. The energy on the floor was incredible, and it was clear that gamers truly enjoyed playing games and interacting with developers in person. It was also rewarding to see more Taiwanese indie games being featured by international media. It felt like TGS took a significant step forward.

TGS covers everything from indie and AAA titles to subculture games and board games. Are there any other categories you want to add?

" Beyond just following industry trends, TGS has always tried to reflect the reality of the gaming community. For example, when subculture games began to gain a larger fan base, TGS made an effort to embrace them. We intend to keep monitoring global buzz and reflect those shifts at TGS as well.

What are your impressions of PlayX4 2026, and what are your expectations for the event?

" Korea is always one of our most important markets, and the Korean gaming industry continues to grow. As a TGS organizer, this is my first time at PlayX4, and I wanted to do more than just promote our show—I wanted to introduce Taiwanese games here. TGS plans to continue bringing the best indie games to Korea to explore potential collaborations with Korean game companies, developers, and publishers.

Many developers are taking on the challenge of console titles these days. Is there a similar movement in Taiwan?

" Recently, more and more teams are choosing to release games on console platforms or launch simultaneously on PC and console. This is because there are better distribution options now, and Taiwanese developers have a broader global vision than before. While the scale isn't quite at the level of Korea yet, I believe Taiwanese developers are working hard and moving forward.

What are the current trends in the Taiwanese gaming market? Are there any specific genres or themes gaining traction?

" There are broadly two groups: those who want to develop games with a unique Taiwanese identity, and those who are trying more diverse approaches. Taiwanese gamers are very open to games from various cultures and platforms, so it's not just local themes that succeed. Also, while mobile games remain popular in Taiwan, gamers are expecting more in terms of quality than before. It is true that expectations have definitely risen.

As a game show organizer, what do you think is the most notable keyword for this year?

" I would say 'Originality.' Whether it's the increasing accessibility of AI tools for game development or changes in production methods, the value of truly original content will never disappear. Therefore, I would choose 'Originality' as the core keyword.

What are your thoughts on AI?

" Developers will continue to use AI tools to assist in the development process. However, I believe originality will still shine through in art and storytelling. This doesn't mean we reject AI, but the focus will likely remain on the creative aspects.

Every show has a highlight section that it wants to showcase. What should Korean visitors look out for when they visit TGS next time?

" The 'Indie House.' It is definitely a place where you can discover something new and truly feel the creative energy radiating from developers around the world. Over 60% of the participants in the Indie House are from overseas. Since it's a collection of global works, I think you'll find games you'll really want to play and experience there.

What do you expect the scale of next year's TGS to be? Will it be similar to the last one, or will it grow?

" Personally, I hope it grows. However, since registration starts in July, it's too early to give a definitive answer regarding scale. That said, some exhibitors told us this year that they want to do more to engage with gamers next year, so the whole team is looking forward to it.

What is the next goal for TGS? Please share a few words on your resolve or vision.

" We are striving to build TGS into a platform for the Asian gaming industry, not just for Taiwan. Rather than just a game show, we want to create an environment that games, developers, and industry partners want to return to every year. Creating opportunities for people to reconnect and for new things to happen—that is the main vision for TGS.