In late October 2025, the gaming world got a warm, inclusive boost with the launch of the event Ghouls 4 Games, organised by PC Gamer in partnership with the nonprofit Dames 4 Games. The festival ran from October 24 until early November, and it stood out for two big reasons: inclusivity and community empowerment.
A Showcase of Diverse Creators
Ghouls 4 Games kicked off with the “Halloween Bash Showcase” on October 24, featuring games developed by women- and femme-led studios. That alone would make a statement — but the event included even more. A Steam event from October 23-30 allowed players to browse and buy these featured titles. And a streaming series called “Stream for Screams” runs from October 24 to November 7, with interviews, live playthroughs, developer chats and community-led collaborations
By shining a spotlight on creators often under-represented in mainstream gaming, the festival helped build a more supportive and visible community. As D4G founder Destinee Cleveland put it:
“We wanted to create a space where ‘creepy’ doesn’t always mean scary — it means clever, bold and full of imagination.”
Games as Community, Not Just Products
One of the most powerful shifts in gaming today is how titles and platforms are becoming social hubs rather than just entertainment. For example, earlier in October Xbox president Sarah Bond said that the concept of exclusive games is becoming “antiquated,” because players long for community and connection more than blocking games to one platform. That insight underscores why events like Ghouls 4 Games matter: they help build community first.
When gamers feel included, seen and heard, the ripple effects go beyond hardware and software — they touch mental-health, friendship, identity and creativity.
Why This Matters
Visibility matters: By celebrating studios led by women and femme creators, the event directly fights the “invisible developer” problem.
Community empowerment: Live streams and developer Q&A’s give fans a voice. They’re not just playing games — they’re part of the story.
Better games, broader audience: With more voices at the creation table, we can expect new genres, fresh narratives and deeper connection across cultures.
Positive culture shift: Gaming has often had issues with toxicity; when the community chooses inclusivity, the tone changes.
A Call to Join In
If you’re a gamer, fan, developer or simply someone who cares about community: take a look at Ghouls 4 Games (it’s still running through November 7). Browse the Steam event, tune into a stream, or just talk with fellow players about what inclusion means in your world.
Because when gaming becomes belonging, it becomes so much more.
