Bournemouth University among IGF Student winners

The winners of the 2011 Independent Games Festival Student Showcase have been announced.

Over 280 entrants, a 47 per cent increase over last year, were whittled down to 8 victors.

Among them was Bournemouth University project GLiD, an ambient exploration game.

Coincidentally, TIGA today announced that Bournemouth University, which offers a BSc in Games Technology, had joined its ranks. Said Dr Christos Gatzidis, course coordinator and lecturer in media technology, stated: "Bournemouth University is committed to working with the industry to further enhance our courses and create benefits for our students. We would love to speak to TIGA members about opportunities for guest lectures, research collaboration and student placements."

Also taking home $500 and a trophy was Gymnasium Koniz Lerbermatt's e7, University of Montreal's Fract, DePaul University's Octodad, ENJIM's PaperPlane, DigiPen's Solace, School of Arts and Design Kassel's Tiny and Big and Future Games Academy's Toys.

Stated IGF Chairman Brandon Boyer, "Even as general awareness of independent developers and their creative output increases year over year, our Student Showcase continues to be the best place to be genuinely surprised and delighted by entirely unknown talent.

"This year's lineup continues that tradition, with eight distinctive and wholly unique games from teams and individuals that we'll surely be hearing much more about in the future."

Each of the winners will be in the running for the main IGF Best Student Game award, which offers a $2500 cashpot. The ceremony is due on March 2.