BAFTA Young Game Designers 2026 finalists revealed, including some genuinely impressive concepts and playable demos

BAFTA has revealed the 51 finalists for the 2026 Young Game Designers competition, selected from hundreds of submissions by young people aged 10 to 18 across the UK. The judging panel included representatives from IO Interactive, creators of *Hitman* spin-off *007 First Light*, and TT Games, known for *LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight*. The competition features two categories: the Game Concept Award, which recognizes original game ideas, and the Game Making Award, which rewards working prototypes built using free software. Both categories are divided into age groups (10-14 and 15-18). The finalists showcase a variety of game genres, including adventure, puzzle, platformer, and racing titles, with some entries offering playable demos. Notable trends include socially aware themes and concepts that could succeed in Steam’s indie section. Nine of the finalists are repeat participants, highlighting the growing talent in the UK’s youth gaming community. The winners will be announced in a live-streamed ceremony on Thursday, June 18 at 5:00 PM BST, hosted by Jules Hardy on BAFTA’s YouTube channel. Following the ceremony, all finalists will be featured at the Young BAFTA Showcase weekend on June 27-28 at BAFTA 195 Piccadilly before the event opens to the public. Winning games will also be displayed at the *Power Up* games experience, alongside notable titles from the past five decades.