Games Lift: Batch 1 Selected Projects

Gamecity Hamburg launched its inaugural Games Lift incubator program in 2020 to foster the growth of local game development talent. The primary objective of the initiative is to provide emerging developers with the financial resources, professional guidance, and infrastructure necessary to transition their concepts into high-quality, market-ready products. By offering a structured support system, the program aims to strengthen the professional games industry within the Hamburg region.

The selection process for the first batch involved a competitive review of 16 applicant teams, which were narrowed down through a pre-selection phase and subsequent online pitches. An expert committee, comprised of industry leaders from companies such as Niantic, Bytro Labs, and Super Crowd Entertainment, selected five projects: Alchymia, Crumbling, Leif's Adventure: Netherworld Hero, Luna Park, and Ninja Brigade. These projects represent a diverse array of genres, ranging from virtual reality experiences and platformers to economy simulations.

Each of the five selected teams receives 15,000 euros in funding, access to a co-working space, and a three-month intensive workshop and mentoring program. The curriculum connects participants with over 30 international experts to refine their projects and prepare for professional industry entry. The incubator concludes with a public final pitch in December, where teams demonstrate the progress achieved during the program. This initiative underscores a commitment to cultivating local innovation and supporting the diverse potential of the Hamburg developer scene.