SSU and ShawneeXP Alum Wins Big Indie Pitch Competition

Celebrating a Major Win for Gnomad at Pocket Gamer Connects 2026

The momentum continues to build for indie game development, and this year delivered an exciting milestone worth celebrating. Gnomad, developed by JollyWare, secured first place at the Big Indie Pitch during the Pocket Gamer Connects Summit San Francisco 2026, a standout achievement on one of the industry’s most competitive stages.

A Prestigious Platform for Indie Innovation

For developers across the globe, the Big Indie Pitch is more than a competition, it’s a proving ground. The event follows a fast-paced, speed-dating-style format where indie teams present their games directly to industry experts from across the gaming ecosystem. Participants receive rapid-fire feedback on gameplay, design, and presentation, while sharpening their ability to pitch effectively under pressure.

Developers enter at various stages of production, from early prototypes to fully released titles, creating a dynamic showcase of creativity and technical skill. The experience alone is invaluable, offering exposure, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can shape the future of a project.

Winning the Big Indie Pitch is no small feat. With a wide spectrum of innovative games competing, judges face the difficult task of selecting a single standout from an impressive field of talent. This year, Gnomad rose to the top.

Inside Gnomad: A Whimsical Adventure with High-Energy Gameplay

Gnomad captured attention with its distinctive style and engaging mechanics. The game is a quirky platformer built around exploration and fast-paced action, set within a whimsical sunken forest teeming with unusual enemies and environmental challenges.

Players step into the role of a determined gnome navigating this imaginative world. Combat relies on skillful movement and timing, allowing players to bounce and deflect projectiles back at enemies in quick, satisfying exchanges. The blend of playful visuals, energetic gameplay, and inventive level design helped distinguish Gnomad among a highly competitive lineup.

A Victory Rooted in Shawnee State Pride

This milestone carries special meaning for the Shawnee State University community. Developer Wickerham is both an SSU graduate and a ShawneeXP alum, making this achievement a powerful example of how talent cultivated locally can reach global stages.

Adding to the celebration, members of the SSU innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem were present to witness the moment firsthand. Garrett Davis and Clarissa Schauseil were there to celebrate alongside the team, representing the strength and support of the broader community behind this success.

This accomplishment also reflects the dedication and mentorship of the outstanding faculty at Shawnee State University, whose commitment to student growth and creative excellence continues to shape the next generation of innovators.

A Victory That Signals Growing Opportunity

Taking first place at the Big Indie Pitch not only brings recognition, but it also unlocks new opportunities. Winners receive industry visibility, promotional support, and the iconic golden Big Indie Pitch baseball bat, a symbol of excellence within the indie gaming community.

More importantly, achievements like this reinforce the strength and potential of independent developers. Success stories such as Gnomad demonstrate how creativity, persistence, and strong pitching skills can open doors to broader audiences and industry partnerships.

Celebrating Innovation and Looking Ahead

This victory represents more than a single award, it highlights the value of bold ideas, rapid iteration, and the courage to present original work to expert audiences. As Gnomad continues its journey, the recognition earned at the Pocket Gamer Connects Summit signals promising momentum and growing interest in its unique gameplay experience.

Moments like this remind us why fostering creativity and supporting emerging developers matters. Breakthroughs in indie development don’t just produce great games, they inspire the next generation of creators to build, experiment, and share their ideas with the world.

Congratulations to the team behind Gnomad, to the alumni and faculty who helped shape this journey, and to everyone who continues to champion innovation at Shawnee State University. Go Bears!