The Hack & Slash Jam is a game development competition where participants create a game centered around fast-paced combat, skillful gameplay, and engaging mechanics. Each jam will have a unique theme that challenges developers to explore different aspects of the hack-and-slash genre, ranging from tight combat systems to narrative-driven encounters. Join us for a fun, competitive environment and showcase your skills in building exciting, action-packed games!

Baseline Rules:

1. Team Size: Participants may work individually or in teams. There’s no maximum team size, but collaboration is encouraged.
2. Game Type: The game must fit within the hack-and-slash genre, focusing on combat mechanics, fluid movement, and action-oriented gameplay.
3. Theme: A specific theme will be announced at the start of the jam. All submissions must align with this theme in some way.
4. Assets: You may use pre-made assets or create your own. If using pre-made assets, ensure they comply with copyright laws and give proper credit.
5. Platform: Games should be playable on at least one of the following platforms: Web, Windows, or Mac. Make sure your game is accessible to the jam's audience.
6. Time Limit: The jam will run for 3 days. All games must be submitted before the deadline.
7. Original Work: All games submitted must be original. No mods or clones of existing games.
8. Game Submission: Submit the game build along with any necessary instructions or files for play (e.g., an executable, instructions, etc.). The submission must include a description of the game, the theme integration, and a brief breakdown of the mechanics.
9. Post-Jam Updates: After the jam, participants may continue to work on their games, but the jam submission is final and must be submitted before the deadline.
   
10. Any other questions: https://discord.gg/QQFcMKwh

Theme:

     TBA!

Jam Guidelines:

• Creativity: We encourage you to take creative liberties within the theme. Push the boundaries of the hack-and-slash genre!
• Focus on Combat: Combat mechanics should be the focal point of your game. Include engaging enemy encounters, combos, or strategic gameplay.
• Time Management: Manage your time effectively to meet the deadline. Try to have a polished prototype that captures the essence of the theme.
• Fun Factor: Above all, focus on making the game fun to play. Good gameplay should always be the priority over other features.
• Prototyping: If you're working with a small team, it's better to create a focused, playable prototype rather than trying to overreach with a large scope.

Voting Guidelines:

1. Judging Criteria:
   • Theme Adherence: How well does the game integrate the theme into its gameplay and design?
   • Combat Mechanics: How satisfying and engaging are the combat mechanics? Do they feel fluid and fun?
   • Innovation: Does the game bring something new or unique to the genre? How creative is the combat or gameplay design?
   • Overall Enjoyment: Is the game fun to play? Does it provide a compelling experience?
   • Presentation: How polished is the game? Consider visuals, sound, and usability.
2. Community Voting: After submissions, the community will vote on their favorite games. Participants are encouraged to rate the games based on the judging criteria.

Award: The winner of the Hack & Slash Jam will receive a special Discord role and have their game featured as the background of the next jam!