Unique Indie Games Showcase Custom Controllers at OIGS 2026

OSAKA INDIE GAMES SUMMIT 2026 took place on October 3 and 4, 2026, at Congress Square Grand Green Osaka, highlighting a wide array of indie titles that utilize unique, custom-built controllers. The event served as a platform for developers to demonstrate how unconventional hardware can be integrated into gameplay.

According to 4gamer.net, the exhibition showcased several games that depart from traditional input methods. Among the titles featured were Conductus, which tracks hand movements via camera, and BE 忍者 by developer Fortgs, which recognizes ninja hand signs through similar camera-based tracking. SOKYU: OPERATION RESCUE by Motomachi Digital Monozukuri Lab was also on display, utilizing a custom nozzle controller to simulate firefighting.

Other developers opted for repurposed household objects to create their control schemes. うどんプッシャー uses a noodle-cutting knife as a controller, while ドアライダー incorporates two store-bought door knobs. Additionally, シュ〜ペロ by 世界靴舐推進機関 was presented as a VR game focused on character interaction, and パターキング by Takuhiro Miyazawa featured a Nintendo Switch experience using Joy-Cons as a putter.

The game 遺跡掘り, which uses the GUITAR LIFE -LESSON1- guitar controller as a shovel, was also exhibited. This title began distribution two days before the OIGS event in October 2026.