Shape Rules:
- What Counts as a Shape: A shape is a distinct geometric form (e.g., triangle, circle, cube, sphere) revealed at the start of the jam. You may only use the provided shapes. Using all is optional. The shape selection will include both 2D and 3D shapes, so you are free to create a 2D, 3D, or 2.5D game, but your visuals must follow the rules for that chosen dimension. If you're using a 3D engine, models must be built from the allowed 3D shapes (e.g., cubes, spheres, capsules). Natural lighting and shadows are allowed.
- Use Only the Allowed Shapes: All visual elements (sprites, models, backgrounds, UI, characters, etc.) must be composed of only the revealed shapes. No custom or additional shapes are allowed. Exception: One flat ground plane or floor is permitted for gameplay purposes. Solid-colored or gradient backgrounds are also allowed.
- Modifications: You may rotate, flip, duplicate, color and uniformly scale the shapes, but their original form must remain visually clear. No warping or combining into new complex forms that break the shape restriction. You may combine or slightly overlap shapes, but they must remain clearly recognizable and not merge into new shapes.
- Transparency, Materials & Effects:
- Transparency, outlines, and visual effects (like glow, bloom or shaders) are allowed as long as they don't visually introduce new shapes or suggest forbidden ones.
- Particle systems must also use only the allowed shapes as individual particles and avoid arrangements that suggest forbidden shapes.
- Fog effects are allowed for subtle atmosphere, but they cannot form distinct or recognizable shapes.
- Materials are allowed, but shapes must remain clearly recognizable. Do not texture shapes to resemble other geometric forms.
- UI Text Is Allowed: You are free to use text in your UI (menus, HUD, instructions, dialogue, etc.). This does not need to follow the shape restriction and can use any fonts or styles. Keep in mind that visual elements like health bars, buttons or icons must still be built using only the allowed shapes. The mouse pointer is an exception.
- Judging & Enforcement: We expect participants to follow the shape rules carefully. Minor flaws or visual overlaps are okay, but clear or repeated disregard of the limitations may lead to disqualification.
Q: Can I use negative space (holes, tunnels, indents)?
A: No. Shapes must always be added, not carved out. Negative space creates new outlines that aren’t placed as allowed shapes, so it’s not permitted.
Q: What is the theme and shapes for this jam?
A: The theme and shapes will be announced when the jam begins. You must use only the provided shapes to complete the challenge.
Q: Who can participate?
A: Anyone! All experience levels are welcome, and you can work solo or in a team (recommended max 4 members).
Q: Can I use any game engine?
A: Yes! You can use any engine or framework, such as Unity, Godot, Unreal, GameMaker, etc. Just ensure your game fits the jam’s rules and theme.
Q: Can I submit multiple games?
A: Yes, if you have the time and energy, you’re welcome to submit more than one game!
Q: Are AI tools allowed?
A: You may use AI tools to assist with coding and asset creation (such as art, music, or sound effects). However, the majority of the code must be your own work, and any AI-generated content should be used thoughtfully and ethically. If you use AI-generated assets, make sure they respect copyright rules and do not resemble or replicate existing copyrighted content.
Q: What about music, fonts, and assets?
A: You can use royalty-free music and audio assets you own, with proper credits and licenses. Make sure all assets adhere to copyright and licensing rules. You may use assets you already own, such as those from the Unity Asset Store or Unreal Marketplace. Ensure that all assets are properly licensed and that you have permission to use them. Avoid infringing on copyrights or trademarks. Assets bought in the stores usually (99.9%) have the correct license to use them in our jam.
Q: Can I edit my game after submitting?
A: No, submissions are locked after the deadline, so make sure everything is ready before you submit!
Q: Does my game have to be a certain format?
A: No, but remember that not all users have Windows/Mac/Linux devices. Browser-based games are a great idea to maximize accessibility. At least make sure a Windows version is available.
Q: Can I submit a game that I already started on?
A: No, it is required that all participants create their games entirely within the jam period.
Q: What are the rating categories?
A: Games will be rated on Art/Visuals, Gameplay/Fun, Audio/Sound Design and Theme, with a special Feedback jury category for participants who provide thoughtful feedback on others’ games.
Q: How many ratings do I need to be eligible for prizes?
A: Each game needs at least 10 ratings to qualify for prizes. Playing and rating other games will help increase your game’s visibility.
Q: How does the judging work?
A: In addition to community ratings, a jury panel will review games to award their favorite entries.
Q: Is there a place to connect with other participants?
A: Yes! Join our Discord Server to chat, brainstorm, and share ideas with the community.
Q: Can I submit my game to other jams?
A: Yes, you are allowed to submit your game to other jams! However, please follow these rules:
- Stick to Our Theme: Your game must adhere to the theme provided for this jam.
- No Early Starts: You can’t start working on your game before our jam officially begins, even if another jam allows it. This ensures everyone has the same amount of time to work on their games.
We encourage creativity and participation in multiple jams, but fairness to all participants is key.
Q: What if I have more questions?
A: Feel free to reach out in the Discord, and we’ll be happy to help!