Level Up Showcase 2025: Ontario’s Premier Student Game Development Event Returns
The Level Up Showcase, one of Ontario’s most anticipated gaming events, is set to return on April 12, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto. Recognized as a cornerstone of the province’s gaming industry, Level Up Showcase provides an unparalleled platform for student game developers to display their work, connect with industry professionals, and compete for top honours.
A Launchpad for Ontario’s Next Generation of Game Developers
Level Up Showcase has grown into a key talent pipeline for the gaming industry in Ontario. Organized by Algonquin College, Brock University, OCAD University, and the University of Toronto, in partnership with XP Gaming Inc., the event gives students direct exposure to some of the biggest names in game development.
Students will have the chance to:
- Showcase their games to thousands of attendees
- Receive feedback from top industry professionals
- Connect with recruiters from leading studios
- Compete for awards and recognition
With backing from major industry partners such as Ubisoft, AMD, Sledgehammer Games, Zynga, and Ontario Creates, the event continues to solidify its role in shaping the future of game development.
"Level Up Showcase is not only a career launchpad for students," says Dr. Steve Engels, Professor at the University of Toronto. "It is a chance for the industry to connect with the next generation of game developers, play their games, share their insights, and scout for talent. Most importantly, it is a celebration of Canadian-made student games from across the post-secondary sector, showcasing the innovation that takes place within our colleges and universities across Ontario."
What to Expect at Level Up Showcase 2025
The showcase will feature hundreds of student-created games, ranging from indie passion projects to ambitious, industry-ready prototypes. Attendees will have the opportunity to:
- Play and Experience Student-Created Games – Discover the next big thing in gaming before it hits the market.
- Meet the Developers – Engage directly with the brilliant minds behind the games and learn about their creative process.
- Vote for Your Favorites – Attendees will be able to cast votes for the best games of the event.
- Awards Ceremony – The showcase culminates in a closing ceremony, where the most impressive games will be recognized and rewarded.
With last year’s event drawing over 3,000 attendees and featuring 150 student games, 2025’s edition is expected to be even bigger and more exciting.
Why Level Up Showcase Matters
The Level Up Showcase isn’t just an event—it’s an opportunity for students to break into the industry. With major gaming companies scouting for talent, many student developers land internships and full-time jobs directly from the event.
It also serves as a celebration of Ontario’s thriving gaming ecosystem, proving that some of the most innovative and creative minds in game development are coming from Canada’s top colleges and universities.
How to Attend
- Date: April 12, 2025
- Location: Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, ON
- Tickets: Free Registration at levelupshowcase.com
Whether you’re an aspiring game developer, industry veteran, recruiter, or simply a gaming enthusiast, Level Up Showcase 2025 is an event you won’t want to miss.