“Salt Games,” founded by Istinye University (ISU) Digital Game Design students under the leadership of Dr. İsmail Ergen, the Head of the Digital Game Design (DOT) Department at ISU, participated in Gaming Istanbul 2023 (GIST), one of the world's largest international gaming and esports fairs, held in recent days.
During GIST 2023, which brings together leading figures in the gaming world with gaming enthusiasts, a panel was held on September 24th, where Dr. İsmail Ergen and the academic staff of ISU Digital Game Design shared information about the recent developments at Istinye University and current projects in DOT. Following the fair, Dr. İsmail Ergen and the Salt Games team shared their comments about the event.
The One and Only Uni-level Participation from Istinye University at GIST
Dr. İsmail Ergen, Head of the DOT Department at ISU, commented on GIST: “Normally, events like GIST and other ‘university-based’ games are described as hyper-casual games, designed as easy-to-play mobile video games. This year, ISU and Salt Games had a different approach to our participation in GIST: The only university-level participation at the fair was from Istinye University. Moreover, what we observed from this year’s GIST, specifically with Salt Games and generally with ISU, is that the process is just beginning. The interest from investors is intense, and Puffy, which is loved by all gaming enthusiasts, especially families, stands out with its ‘forward-thinking’ quality, distinguishing it from standard games. The dynamic structure initiated and developed as ‘Salt Games’ marks a valuable beginning that highlights Istinye University’s success and innovation in the field of digital game design and holds promising prospects for future projects.”
Influencers and YouTubers Showed Intense Interest
Güven Sarı, Team Leader of Salt Games, said, “At the event, we introduced ‘Puffy,’ the first game developed by Salt Games specifically for children aged 3-6. Our main motivation in the development phase was to have an ‘educational’ structure where children can learn while having fun. It’s important to note that the feedback has been very positive. We received a much higher level of interest at GIST than we expected; this is very valuable for the future and proves that our work was done correctly and accurately. ‘Puffy’ by Salt Games was the only mobile game at the fair and attracted significant attention from both influencers and YouTubers. Our game, which currently has three playable mechanics, has a special structure for families with children. We had the opportunity to spend time with them at the fair and gather their feedback. Puffy, which is currently playable, will have fifteen mechanics upon the completion of the preparation phase.”
