The CGA Jam 2024
In 2017, a single event happened. It is time to bring back and return of the CGA jam as a yearly event.
RULES :
- Graphics: Choose your screen size with the corresponding number of colors palette or the bonus 6 colors Apple-2 palette. (see below)
- Screen Sizes:
1. 160 × 100 with the full16 colors palette
2. 320 × 200 with 4 chosen colors max
3. 640 × 200 with 2 chosen colors max
Bonus choice :
4. 280×192 with the 6 Apple2 colors
- Sound: 8Bit Sounds / Chiptunes
- Palettes:
Depending the resolution you chose to work with, choose 2, 4 or all colors from the full cga palette, examples of the most famous 4 colors :
or the bonus palette if you are not afraid with 6 colors : Apple 2
THEMES :
No theme, you are free to do any game you imagine as long as you respect the size, sound and color limits.
ALLOWED
Altering colors : If you desire to avoid the harshness of the original colors, it is allowed to subtly fade or shade the initial colors, as long as we remain close to the colors of the CGA palette. (like the CGA inspired palette of https://dene.itch.io/moonring)
Filters like: Noise, RGBA Channel separation, distorsion, Tv Flickering, Scanlines... but remember to add an On/Off button.
Changing the palette in game : You can change between the 4 colors CGA palette ingame but if you choose the Apple-2 6 colors, you need to stick with it.
You can do 3D games, it just need to match the restrictions above. (Using Filters/Shaders/Dithering)
FAQ
Q: What types of platforms or engines are allowed?
A: Whatever you use for creating games for any platform, (Windows, Mac, Linux, HTML5, Android, iOS...) but keep in mind that exporting your game in html5 will help more peoples to play it.
Q: Any min/max resolution?
A: Yes, 640 × 200 is officially the maximum. the screen sizes are chosen to stick to computer video game history. If you want a smaller resolution (type gameboy 160 x 144), you can use borders in the 320x200+4 colors format. (also you probably need to use a scale or zooming of your game to make it playable on modern screen).
Q: Are teams allowed?
A: yes.
Q: Can i participate with more than one game?
A: Yes! no problem ;)
Q: Can i use an old game and finish it for the jam ?
A: Yes! no problem ;). It's not about competition; rather, it's a time of year for us to unite and pay homage to a bygone era where limitations sparked creativity, endeavoring to keep the flame of that time alive.
Q: I don't understand one of the rules or i have some questions.
A: Please go to the community tab and leave a post.