Gameplay First Jam is a community-run game jam started by folks from various AAA game studios and friends across the industry. We created this space as a low-pressure, creative outlet to explore gameplay ideas, experiment with new tools, and collaborate with others outside of day-to-day work. This is the first year we're hosting on itch.io!

Whether you're prototyping a new mechanic, building something a little weird, or just jamming with friends, we welcome you to join!

This year's theme invites you to explore moral gray areas, flip perspectives, and question who's really in the right. Are you misunderstood... or truly the villain? Let your game twist the narrative!

Use the theme literally or loosely. Interpret it however you like. It's meant to inspire, not confine!

• Start: July 1, 2025
• End: August 1, 2025
• Theme: Revealed at kickoff!

Community Events

• 🧋 Social Mixer: June 27, 2025
• 🚀 Jam Kickoff: July 1, 2025
• 🎤 Show & Tell: August 5, 2025

• Craft something centered around core gameplay.
• Any format works: digital, tabletop, physical card games, hybrids, etc.
• Any engine or tool is welcome.
• Submit a build, prototype, or video - whatever works!
• The theme is optional but encouraged.
• Be kind, inclusive, and respectful in submissions and on Discord.
• No NSFW content or harassment.
• By joining, you agree to follow the complete community rules.

These guidelines apply specifically to Activision, Blizzard, and King employees participating in the jam. Please read carefully and ensure you are in compliance before joining.

• You must get written approval in an email from your Approval Manager before joining. Approval must include the conditions outlined in pages 18-19 of the Playbook.
• You CAN share your game publicly during the jam (e.g., on itch.io) but CANNOT continue development after the jam ends unless you go through the Side Projects process and receive explicit approval.
• You may not use ABK tools, hardware, office space, or intellectual property to create your game.
• Public jams may disqualify your project from future side project approval, so plan accordingly!

This is a privately hosted, unpaid event and is not sponsored by Activision, Blizzard, King, Microsoft, or any other company. Any public comments, posts, or updates you share during the jam represent you as an individual and do not reflect the views of your employer.

• 💬 Join our Discord for updates and announcements
• 📖 Jam FAQ for common questions
• 💡 Resources Doc with tools and tips