Future Frontiers Game Jam

Presented by The Array, in celebration of National Science Week 2025

In celebration of National Science Week 2025 Supported by: Australian Computer Society (ACS), SunCable, Screen Australia, National Science Week, Inspiring Australia, Inspired NT

Key Dates

Launch Date: Thursday 10 July 2025 
Submission Deadline: 11:59 PM, Thursday 7 August 2025
Public Showcase: 9 to 17 August during National Science Week
Winners Announced: During Science Week celebrations – details to be confirmed

About the Jam

The Future Frontiers Game Jam is a Territory-wide creative challenge inviting NT-based developers aged 10 and over to design playable games inspired by science, sustainability, and the future of our world.

This 28-day jam encourages participants to imagine what's next from solar-powered cities to AI companions, space travel, biodiversity, and more. It is proudly aligned with National Science Week 2025 and co-branded with SunCable’s Solar Futures initiative.

Prize Pool

Total prize pool: $1,000, generously supported by our sponsors

Best Overall Game

Sponsored by Screen Australia 
Recognising excellence in creativity, design, and gameplay, celebrating game development as a professional creative practice.

Solar Futures Award

Sponsored by SunCable
Awarded to the game that best explores solar energy, sustainability, or future-focused environmental themes.

STEM Frontiers Award

Sponsored by Inspired NT / National Science Week
Honouring the most innovative use of science, technology, or STEM storytelling within the game experience.

People’s Choice Award

Community-Supported Voted by the public during Science Week, recognising games that resonate most with players and visitors.

Emerging Creator Award

Sponsored by ACS 
Awarded to a first-time developer or team demonstrating exceptional promise in game development.

Extra awards may be added based on entries.

How to Participate

Build your game between 10 July and 7 August
Work solo or in a team (maximum 4 recommended)
Use any engine or tool you like
New to jams is fine – curiosity is more important than perfection
Join the NT Game Designers Discord to connect, team up, and get support

Rules and Eligibility

NT-Only for Prizes: Only Northern Territory-based participants are eligible for prizes
Keep It Clean: Games must be appropriate for all ages
New Work Only: No resubmissions of past projects
Theme Integration Required: Include the words “Future Frontiers” somewhere in your game (e.g. title screen, credits, dialogue)
Minimum Age: 10 years old

FAQs

1. Can I use premade assets? Yes, as long as you have the correct licences and provide appropriate credits.
2. Can I use AI tools? Yes, provided the final game reflects meaningful human creativity and authorship.
3. Do I need to code from scratch? No. Use whatever tools help you bring your idea to life.
4. Can I work in a team? Yes. Make sure all contributors are credited and only one person submits the final entry.

Judging Criteria

1. Innovation and Originality 
   1. Is the concept bold, surprising, or thought-provoking?
2. Gameplay and Interaction 
   1. Is the game fun, functional, and intuitive? Does it feel satisfying to play?
3. Design and Presentation 
   1. How well do visuals, audio, and user experience support the concept?
4. Theme Integration 
   1. Does the game meaningfully explore Future Frontiers and include relevant STEM or solar themes?
5. Impact and Relevance
   1. Does the game invite players to think critically or creatively about science, sustainability, or the future?