Freeplay is the world’s longest-running independent games festival, located in Melbourne, Australia. Established in 2004, the festival embraces the fringes, spotlights grassroots artists and game makers, and acts as a response to and critique of the status quo. For over 18 years, Freeplay has been exploring the vital margins of independent, alternative, and experimental games culture. The festival continues to champion artistic exploration and experimentation in games and play, and positions game making as arts practice.
Memory Lane
Latest News
Update on the Freeplay review
Hello there, Freeplay friends! As some of you may know, we’re taking some time this year to think about how we do Freeplay. A few months ago, we said goodbye to artistic director Chad Toprak, and we have not yet filled the vacancy. Parallels will still go ahead...
The Freeplay ZONE Has Been Shutdown Due To Noise Complaints
Following an all too familiar trend, it can be confirmed today that popular Melbourne games showcase venue, the Freeplay ZONE, will be closing its doors due to noise complaints made by residents of the recently built apartment block. "We recently came on to look after...
🌸➡️ PARALLELS TICKETS ON SALE NOW!! ⬅️🌸
Parallels is to return in person, with it's one-night-only showcase of some of the most experimental, personal, and culturally significant work being made in Australia’s independent games communities today. Come and see your next favourite game! Paper House, the...
Freeplay acknowledges the Wurundjeri & Boon Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the Lands upon which the festival takes place.
We pay respect to their Elders past and present, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the wider community and beyond.
Sovereignty was never ceded, and this always was and always will be Aboriginal land.