Content Guidelines for "Irregular Comparison" Game Jam

Welcome to the Irregular Comparison Game Jam! This section will walk you through the kinds of content we're looking for, as well as provide some inspiration and guidelines to help you get started on your game.

1. Theme Interpretation

• Core Concept: Your game must embody the theme "Irregular Comparison," which means highlighting contrasts between elements that don't follow traditional rules or expectations. This can be in mechanics, story, visuals, or any other creative avenue you choose.
• Examples of Interpretation:
  • A puzzle game where objects behave unpredictably, but must be compared to each other to solve the puzzles.
  • A platformer where two characters with opposite abilities (one chaotic, one structured) must work together.
  • A strategy game that pits a well-organized system against random, chaotic forces.

2. Gameplay Mechanics

Encourage players to experience the irregularity through:

• Unconventional Controls: Experiment with control schemes that change over time or vary by situation.
• Juxtaposed Elements: Design levels, challenges, or mechanics that force players to adapt to irregular or shifting environments.
• Comparative Gameplay: Include moments where players must actively compare two vastly different systems, characters, or objects to progress.

3. Art & Visual Style

• Contrasts in Design: Use visual design to reinforce the theme. You could use:
  • Symmetry vs. Asymmetry: Split-screen comparisons where one side is clean and structured, and the other chaotic or distorted.
  • Mixed Art Styles: Blend minimalistic designs with chaotic or abstract elements to symbolize irregularity.
  • Color Palette: Explore mismatched colors or opposites like black vs. white, bright vs. muted, or cold vs. warm tones.

4. Sound & Music

• Contrasting Soundscapes: Just like the visuals, the sound should reflect the irregular comparison. Try:
  • Shifts in Tone: Alternate between calm, harmonic music and chaotic, dissonant sounds to reinforce game events.
  • Layered Audio: Have different audio tracks contrast with each other, such as peaceful ambient music interrupted by random loud bursts or glitches.

5. Story & Narrative

• Story Themes: The narrative could reflect the theme by focusing on dualities or contrasts, like:
  • Order vs. Chaos: A world where two forces, one of strict rules and the other of unpredictability, are locked in conflict or collaboration.
  • Character Differences: Protagonists and antagonists could embody irregularity in their characteristics, with one being stable and logical while the other is erratic or wild.

6. Technical Guidelines

• Game Engines: Feel free to use any engine you are comfortable with! Some popular options include:
  • Unity
  • Godot
  • Unreal Engine
  • Scratch (for simpler games)
• Submission Formats:
  • Your game should be playable on Windows, Mac, or browser-based if possible.
  • Provide clear instructions or a readme file on how to play your game if needed.

7. Inspiration Corner

If you're feeling stuck or need a push in the right direction, consider drawing inspiration from:

• Games: Titles like Antichamber (non-traditional puzzle game), Baba Is You (mechanics that break rules), or Stanley Parable (narrative-driven unpredictability).
• Visual Art: Abstract art or surrealism, which often plays with expectations and irregularity.
• Movies/TV: Films like Inception (contrasting realities) or Donnie Darko (unconventional narrative structure) may spark ideas.

8. Rules & Restrictions

• Originality: All submissions must be original work made during the jam period. Pre-existing assets (music, art, code) are allowed as long as they're not the core gameplay.
• Content: No offensive or inappropriate content. Keep it safe for all audiences.
• Collaboration: You’re free to work solo or in teams! Just be sure to credit all contributors.

9. Judging Criteria

Games will be judged on the following:

• Theme Adherence: How well does your game embody the concept of "Irregular Comparison"?
• Creativity: How inventive are the mechanics, story, and visual elements?
• Fun Factor: Is the game enjoyable and engaging?
• Polish: How refined is the gameplay experience, art, and sound?
  

10. Voting Process

• Participant Voting: Every submitter and contributor will have the chance to vote on the games. You'll get to play the other submissions and rate them based on the judging criteria.
• Fairness & Honesty: We encourage all participants to vote thoughtfully and fairly on the games they play. Consider creativity, theme adherence, and enjoyment when casting your votes.
• Community-Driven: Your votes will determine the final ranking of the games, so the community decides the winners!