Retriever-led Video Game Design Teams Showcase Their Creations To Thousands At MAGFest - UMBC: University Of Maryland, Baltimore County

February 18, 2026 - 05:15

Two video game design teams led by UMBC students, known as Retrievers, showcased their original creations to thousands of enthusiasts at the recent Super MAGFest (Music And Gaming Festival). The national event, celebrated for its vibrant celebration of gaming culture and independent development, provided a major platform for these emerging talents.

The first team presented Crystal Crisis, a cooperative 3D puzzle-platformer. The game challenges two players to navigate a fractured world by manipulating time together, receiving positive feedback for its innovative core mechanic and engaging visual style.

The second showcased project was Sonder, a narrative-driven adventure game. It explores themes of connection and perspective within a mysterious, ever-shifting city, drawing festival-goers into its thoughtfully crafted world and story.

For the students, participation was more than an exhibition; it was a vital professional milestone. The festival environment allowed them to conduct live player testing, gather immediate feedback from a diverse audience, and connect directly with the gaming community and industry peers. The experience provided invaluable insights that will shape the continued development of their games and bolster the students' preparedness for careers in the competitive field of game design.