📌 Horror Tapes Jam – FAQ
❓ What is this jam about?
This jam is all about creating a horror game that feels like a lost recording, found footage, or live broadcast. The core theme is "Horror Footage", meaning your game should feel like it was captured through a camera, whether it's a VHS tape, an old film reel, a corrupted surveillance feed, or even a futuristic sci-fi transmission
👥 Who can participate?
Anyone! Whether you're a solo developer or part of a team, a beginner or an expert, you're welcome to join. This jam is a great opportunity to meet new people, experiment, and test your skills!
🎥 Do I have to use VHS effects?
Nope! VHS-style visuals are a popular choice, but not required. The main theme is "Horror Footage", so your game can be based on:
- 🎞 Old film reels from the early 1900s
- 📡 A sci-fi, futuristic clean broadcast
- 🏚 A creepy home video recording
- 🎥 A lost documentary or news broadcast
- 🕵️♂️ A mysterious found surveillance tape
As long as your game feels like recorded footage, it fits the theme!
🎮 What game engines can I use?
You can use any game engine or framework you like, including but not limited to: ✅ Unity ✅ Unreal Engine ✅ Godot ✅ GameMaker ✅ Construct ✅ Phaser ✅ Custom engines
💻 Can I use AI-generated assets?
Yes! AI-generated assets (art, sound, etc.) are allowed, but you must disclose which parts of your game were made using AI.
🚫 What content is NOT allowed?
- No NSFW content (explicit adult material, extreme gore, etc.).
- No hate speech or offensive content.
- No copyrighted material—all assets must be original or free to use.
🔊 What are the judging criteria?
Games will be rated by the community based on: ✅ Adherence to Theme – Does it feel like a found horror tape?
✅ Sound Design (SFX) – Does the audio help create a terrifying atmosphere?
✅ Visual Effects (VFX) – How well are camera/footage effects implemented?
✅ Gameplay & Mechanics – Is the game engaging and immersive?
✅ Polish & Execution – Is it well-crafted and functional?
Bonus: Extra points for exceptional camera work and immersion!
🏆 What are the prizes?
🥇 1st Place:
- My "Static SFX" and "Horror Ambient SFX" sound packs.
- A collaboration with me to create a custom soundtrack or a small pack of sound effects for your game!
🥈 2nd Place:
- Both "Static SFX" and "Horror Ambient SFX" sound packs.
🥉 3rd Place:
- Your choice of one of the two sound packs.
🎖 Special Mentions: I may also give 1 or 2 extra prizes to games that deserve recognition but don’t make it into the top 3.
💡 Can I start working before the jam begins?
Yes! You can start brainstorming, prototyping, or even revive an abandoned project ("your pet project") before the jam officially starts. Just make sure the final game is created within the jam period!
🕹 Does my game need to be fully finished?
Nope! Game jams are for experimenting and learning. Even if your game isn’t finished or fully polished, you should still submit it! You’ll get valuable feedback, experience, and motivation for future projects.
🔄 Can I update my game after submission?
Yes, minor bug fixes are allowed, but major content updates should be saved for after the jam ends.
📡 Where can I discuss the jam and find teammates?
You can join the discussion on https://discord.gg/qnMDC45J . It’s a great place to share ideas, ask for feedback, and find teammates!
🎭 Can I make a comedy/parody horror game?
Absolutely! Horror doesn’t always have to be deadly serious. A dark, unsettling, or even comedic approach can work as long as it fits the theme of recorded footage.
📼 Any final advice?
- Don’t overthink it! Horror thrives on mystery, subtlety, and tension.
- Atmosphere is key – lighting, sound, and pacing matter more than fancy graphics.
- Experiment and have fun! Even if your game isn’t perfect, every jam helps you grow.
- Engage with the community – play and rate other entries, give feedback, and make friends!
📢 Ready to press play on your nightmares? Join Horror Tapes Jam and show us what horrors lurk in the footage! 🎥👁