Scavenge, build, and sabotage: Computer Junkyard heads to Gen Con 2026

Dream Egg Games is set to bring its hit tabletop strategy title, Computer Junkyard, to Gen Con 2026 in Indianapolis. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over $245,000, this 2-4 player game challenges participants to assemble vintage computers from scavenged parts while navigating a cutthroat marketplace and sabotaging their opponents.

Key takeaways

• Gen Con 2026 debut: The game will be featured from July 30 through August 2 at the Indiana Convention Center.

• Gameplay: 2-4 players compete to build functional vintage computers using puzzle-like hardware tiles.

• Mechanics: The game features intense resource management, a volatile shared market, and direct player-versus-player sabotage.

• Origin: Designed by Allan and Jared Pincus, the title achieved nearly 4,900% of its original crowdfunding goal.

Bringing the digital world to the tabletop

Computer Junkyard represents a unique approach to tabletop gaming, born from a desire to capture the essence of computer building without being tethered to a screen. Co-designer Allan Pincus noted that the project was specifically intended to be a computer game played entirely away from a computer. This design philosophy emphasizes the tactile nature of the hobby, forcing players to physically assemble components onto a grid while engaging in social interaction and strategic planning.

Gameplay and mechanics

In this strategy game, players race to construct a working vintage computer by gathering essential hardware components, including CPUs, RAM, GPUs, and motherboards. These components are represented by puzzle-like tokens that must be fitted onto a personal chassis grid. The challenge is amplified by a volatile shared marketplace where parts are scarce and highly sought after by all participants.

Beyond simply building, players must contend with active sabotage. The game allows for the use of "bug" tiles to block rivals, steal critical components, or hoard parts to manipulate market prices. Each player also receives a unique software objective tile at the start of the game, which defines their specific win condition and adds a layer of depth to every session.

From Kickstarter success to retail

After a highly successful launch on Kickstarter in March 2025, where it exceeded its funding goal by nearly 4,900%, Computer Junkyard has successfully transitioned into the retail market. The retail edition includes several premium component upgrades that were unlocked as stretch goals during the initial campaign. Following its widespread availability online, the upcoming appearance at Gen Con 2026 marks the game's first official North American convention debut, offering fans a chance to experience the competitive, high-tension gameplay in a live setting.

Sources

• Computer Junkyard to debut at GenCon 2026, GamingTrend.