WorldGaming unveils ICE Global Hall of Fame

New initiative to honour five industry icons and three emerging leaders on the eve of ICE Barcelona '27

Described as a "Hall of Fame with a twist", the initiative will bring together established legends and emerging talent, recognising both the contribution of those who have transformed the industry and the individuals who are helping to define where it goes next.

The inaugural ICE Global Hall of Fame will be unveiled at the WorldGaming Gala on Sunday 17 January 2027, creating a prestigious curtain-raiser to ICE Barcelona and a new annual moment for the global gaming community.

Statements by Margaret Dunn

Margaret Dunn, Portfolio Director responsible for ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona, said: "We are delighted to launch the ICE Global Hall of Fame in partnership with the industry. This is about celebrating the people who have made a truly game-changing contribution to gaming, while also recognising the leaders who are already shaping its future.

"Gaming is an incredibly dynamic and influential global entertainment industry, and we want to celebrate the people who have helped it evolve, those who have challenged convention, driven innovation, championed progress and made a lasting difference.

"What makes the Hall of Fame different is that we are not only looking back. We are looking forward too. We want to recognise the established legends alongside the emerging leaders who we believe will play an important role in taking the industry to its next chapter."

Each year, five outstanding industry figures will be inducted into the Hall of Fame based on their career achievements, leadership, community contribution and lasting impact on the sector. Alongside the five inductees, an independent judging panel of respected industry thought leaders from across the global gaming community will select three Emerging Legends — individuals who may not yet have decades of industry experience, but whose leadership, influence and achievements are already making a significant impact.

The combination of established and emerging talent reflects the unique role of ICE Barcelona as a global platform where the industry's biggest ideas, innovations and initiatives come together.

Dunn added: "ICE has always been about more than what is happening today. It is where new ideas are launched, where innovation is showcased and where the industry comes together to debate, challenge and shape what comes next. It therefore feels entirely fitting that, on the eve of ICE Barcelona, we celebrate the people who have helped build the industry we have today, while giving a platform to the leaders who will help create the industry of tomorrow."

The ICE Global Hall of Fame will become an annual celebration of excellence, leadership and impact, recognising the people behind the industry's evolution and providing a new benchmark for those who are helping to shape its future.