adminNordic Game 2026 will feature a session from Finnish developer Housemarque about the art and design behind its latest game, Saros. The discussion will explore how creative direction supports the studio’s gameplay-first approach, offering attendees a closer look at the thinking behind the game’s development.
Image credit: Housemarque/Nordic Game
Nordic Game 2026 session focuses on Saros
The session, titled “Lessons from Carcosa: Art & Design Direction for Saros,” will bring together three Housemarque leaders: brand director Mikael Haveri, associate design director Mitja Roskaric, and art director Simone Silvestri. They will discuss how art and design can work alongside gameplay to shape a cohesive game experience.
For game developers and designers, the session’s focus offers a useful opportunity to consider how visual direction and design decisions can reinforce a game’s central play experience. Attendees interested in those topics may find it helpful to note the session title and speakers when reviewing the conference programme, as the available schedule can help with planning around other talks.
More speakers and industry sessions
Housemarque is part of a wider Nordic Game 2026 line-up. Other announced speakers include Mat Ombler of Laced Music, marketing journalist Junae Benne, and Martin Walfisz, founder of Connecting the Pixel.
The programme will also include a State of the Industry 2026 panel featuring experts from Newzoo, Game Advisor, Embracer Group, and Mighty Diamonds. Organisers have separately announced the speakers for Masterclass Friday, a programme of full-day workshops and expert-led sessions focused on game development. Those considering attending can check the latest programme information for session details and timings.
Developer Showcase Hall and event details
More than 100 developers are expected to present games in the Developer Showcase Hall, hosted by indie hub Spelkollektivet. Developers from over 25 countries—including Nordic nations, Japan, China, Ukraine, and South Africa—will have opportunities to connect with publishers, investors, media, and other industry professionals.
Nordic Game 2026 is scheduled for May 26–29 at Slagthuset in Malmö, Sweden. The final price increase for passes is set to take effect on May 1, 2026. People planning a visit should confirm current pass and programme information before making arrangements, since event details may be updated.
What to expect from Nordic Game 2026
With Housemarque’s Saros discussion, industry panels, workshops, and a showcase featuring more than 100 developers, Nordic Game 2026 brings several parts of the game-development community together. The Housemarque session will offer a focused look at the relationship between art direction, design, and gameplay. For attendees following the event, Nordic Game 2026’s published programme is the best reference for planning around the talk and other sessions.
