Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB) continues to encourage students to broaden their perspectives and gain valuable experiences through learning opportunities beyond the classroom. As part of this effort, two UIB Darmasiswa students, Sayaka Takada from Japan and Hassan Alvarez Soberano from the Philippines, participated in Games Showcase 2026, organized by Apple Developer Institute for Games @ Infinite Learning on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, at Apple Developer Academy @ Infinite Learning, Nongsa Digital Park, Batam.
Held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Western Indonesian Time (WIB), the event featured a panel discussion with gaming industry practitioners and program alumni, followed by an exhibition where visitors could try various games firsthand. Through these activities, participants had the opportunity to learn about game development, hear developers share their experiences, and explore career opportunities in the digital creative industry.
Learning from the Journeys and Experiences of Game Developers
The event began with a discussion session exploring how developers create games, whether independently or collaboratively as part of a team or studio. The speakers shared their experiences, including how they first became interested in gaming, their game development processes and completed projects, as well as potential career paths in the industry.
A question-and-answer session gave participants the opportunity to learn more directly from the developers. The discussion highlighted that game development involves more than technical skills. Creativity, teamwork, persistence, and an understanding of user experience also play important roles in creating engaging games.
The event was attended by students from several higher education institutions, including Batam State Polytechnic (Politeknik Negeri Batam or Polibatam), Batam Institute of Technology (Institut Teknologi Batam or ITEBA), and Raja Ali Haji Maritime University (Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji or UMRAH). The diverse backgrounds of the participants enriched the discussion and encouraged the exchange of perspectives among those interested in technology and game development.
One particularly interesting insight was that not all developers came from information technology or game development-related academic backgrounds. Some began with a personal interest in video games and curiosity about how games are made. Over time, that interest developed into professional careers, with some even establishing their own game studios.
The Games Institute Exhibition Offers Hands-On Gaming Experiences
Following the discussion session, participants explored an exhibition featuring games developed through The Games Institute program by Infinite Learning. During the games playtesting session, visitors had the opportunity to try various games that program participants had developed over several months.
Playing the games firsthand provided a clearer understanding of their concepts, gameplay flow, and creative direction. Rather than simply observing the finished products, visitors could experience how each game was designed to engage its players.
The variety of games on display also demonstrated how game development provides room for diverse ideas and creative approaches. For visitors, the exhibition was an opportunity to explore different projects and see how ideas can be transformed into interactive digital products.
UIB Students Gain New Insights into the Gaming Industry
The experience was also shared by six UIB Information Systems students: Putri Amalia (2531093), Aulia Nurul Afiza (2531118), Sri Zaskiya Ayla Saputri (2531179), Alexa Nethania Cyesya (2531145), Magdalena Silaban (2531131), and Saskia May Nanda (2531176).
For the students, the combination of the discussion session and game exhibition made the event an engaging learning experience. The discussion provided insights into developers’ professional journeys and career prospects in the gaming industry, while the exhibition allowed them to explore and play different games directly.
The event also demonstrated that there are diverse pathways into the gaming industry. Personal interest, a willingness to learn, and opportunities to develop relevant skills can all contribute to building experience in this creative field.
At the end of the event, participants also received information about recruitment opportunities for Infinite Learning programs, including the Academy and The Games Institute, which run for approximately six to eight months. These programs offer further opportunities for individuals interested in learning more about technology and game development.
Participation in Games Showcase 2026 provided an opportunity to connect learning beyond the classroom with practical insights into the industry. For UIB’s Darmasiswa students, the event also offered a chance to explore Batam’s creative and technology environment while gaining broader experiences during their studies in Indonesia.
Through international experiences and collaborative activities, Universitas Internasional Batam remains committed to helping students broaden their perspectives, develop their potential, and prepare for future professional opportunities. To learn more about academic programs and study opportunities at UIB, visit the official UIB website or the UIB Admissions Portal.
Writer: Duke Paopathon Pardede (2461001) | Editor: Gilang Ananda, S.Kom.,M.M
