Source: Smilegate

Smilegate's game platform, STOVE, is participating as a gold sponsor for Korea's largest indie game festival and is providing direct support for its partner developers to showcase their games offline.

Smilegate's global game platform, STOVE, is participating as a gold sponsor for the 'Busan Indie Connect (BIC) Festival 2026' (BIC 2026), held at BEXCO in Busan for three days from the 14th to the 16th. This year, rather than simply promoting the platform, STOVE has focused on supporting offline booth exhibitions for outstanding domestic and international developers and publishers currently on its platform. The initiative aims to demonstrate STOVE's role as a partner in the indie game ecosystem, bridging the gap between creators and users.

The supported partners will present a diverse lineup of games. China's Thermite Games will showcase three titles: 'House of Legacy,' 'Travel Guide to the Babel,' and 'Lone Star Hunter.' Line Games will debut its new publishing title, 'A.S.S. (Amazing Slot Survival),' developed by Two Men Games, at the Smilegate booth. Additionally, Darakbang Friends will unveil its new game, 'Min-ah, the Incompetent Employee at a Game Company.'

The success of Smilegate's global publishing title, 'Alleyway: Ghost Trace,' is also noteworthy. Developed by AIXLAB, the game was previously featured in the competitive category at last year's BIC and has once again been recognized for its quality by being named a 'Connect Pick' by the Big Connectors this year.

Online programs will run concurrently. Until the 28th, STOVE is operating a 'STOVE x BIC' collaboration page in partnership with the BIC Festival Organizing Committee, featuring a total of approximately 70 entries. Users unable to visit the venue can play free game demos, and 10% discount coupons are available for games that have already been officially released, allowing users to enjoy the festival atmosphere online.

Through its offline exhibition support and online collaboration page, STOVE aims to create a festival environment where creators and gamers can enjoy themselves together. Further details regarding STOVE's participation in BIC and the collaboration page can be found on the STOVE platform.