New Croatian conference Splitscreen wants to keep “that half-holiday, half-work feeling” of Reboot Develop
By A fresh occasion in Split promises a waterfront location, a global audience merging AAA and indie – and no scheduling application
Image credit: Splitscreen
A new Croatian development conference is striving to bridge the void left by the recently-passed and beloved Reboot Develop, which concluded this year with the organizer being issued a bankruptcy order. The “no-stress” Splitscreen, occurring in the Croatian capital from April 20–22, 2027, has been established by a fresh team, yet aims to embody the same essence that made its predecessor a favored destination for the global sector.
The essential components: a global audience, an ancient town, a coastal hotel where indie developers can mingle (and enjoy cocktails) with AAA veterans – and no scheduling application. The latter was deemed the “most-desired feature” by individuals consulted during the event’s inception, according to director and co-founder Hrvoje Mitic, leading to an emphasis on social engagement rather than the widespread Meet2Match.
“The atmosphere we aim to maintain is that blend of vacation and work: industry acquaintances gathering by the Adriatic in a hotel adjacent to the beach, to recharge, connect, and cultivate genuine relationships,” he shares with GamesIndustry.biz. “You have excellent discussions and meetings, but some of the finest conversations transpire over lunch, on a boat, or simply hanging out.”
“You truly get to know one another. Attendees depart with authentic relationships. That’s what makes it remarkable.”
The accommodation is the Radisson Blu in Split, which will feature a familiar assortment of talks and workshops alongside an “enhanced” game showcase replacing Reboot’s somewhat chaotic display of PCs in a hotel lobby, with a competition system recognizing sponsored packages for developers to promote themselves and their games at the event. The speaker roster will include developers from around the globe: the first confirmed sessions feature Landfall’s Rebecca Lautner, Housemarque co-founder Ilari Kuittinen, and Panache Digital’s Patrice Désilets, with additional presentations to come.
Initial speakers include Landfall’s Rebecca Lautner and Ubisoft’s Fawzi Mesmar. | Image credit: Splitscreen
“Alongside prominent names from North America,
