With almost $3000 paid out in prizes over the past five jams, it's once again time for the quarterly It's Based gamejam. The top 5 finalists will be judged live by high profile guest judges. Join today, create some culture, have fun, and showcase your skills for a chance to win some money along the way!
Got any questions to ask? Need to find a team? Best place to get help and get a crew is the discord!
In an era where voices are often silenced and mainstream narratives dominate, the JamCast offers a sanctuary for those pushed to the margins by corporate constraints.
This is your platform to connect, create, and unleash the bold ideas that challenge the status quo. Join a community of independent thinkers and game developers who are eager to express their visions and inspire innovation through gaming.
THE RED PLANET. We livestreamed it on X and Youtube. Find the relevant links on itsbased.com
Just like previous jams, the It's Based Spring 2025 gamejam features cash prizes. The prize pool is currently at-least $500, with the final amount announced closer to the jam. This time around, our top contestants will also receive a copy of Soulash.
Prize money is paid out via PayPal only
Featured Guest Judges
TBA!
Judging criteria
Each submission will be played by judges for no longer than 10 minutes, or until the game is completed if the game is shorter than 10 minutes.
Games will be judged based on three categories:
Gameplay
Is your game fun? Do the mechanics work well together? Are you offering a well crafted experience to your players?
Originality
How novel elements in the game are. Does the game offer a new (or bringing back old ones in a fresh way) perspective on things?
Theme
Since the game jam revolves around a central theme, making the most out of the topic will net you points in this category.
Only the top entries will be showcased during the JamCast Finals.
Time Frame
The jam lasts for 14 days. All game development and planning must be done within this period.
We reserve the right to extend the jam by one week.
Team Size
Participants can work solo or in teams. Maximum of 4 people per team. If you're part of a team, you need to designate one participant as your team lead, if your team wins the prize money will be sent to that person.
Game Engines and Tools
All game engines and development tools are allowed.
Content Guidelines
All assets must be attributed or created. AI content is allowed, but should also be identified. NSFW content is not allowed.
Submission
Submit your game on the jam's itch.io page before the deadline, stated on the Discord server. Late submissions will not be accepted. Make sure you set your submission to public on itch.
We reserve the right to reject submissions that don't meet the definition of a ''new game''.
Collaboration and Communication
Use the jam's Discord or other communication channels to collaborate and ask questions. You can make a game on your own or team up with other people - we have a channel to recruit team members on our Discord!
Q: Do I need to have specific politics to participate?
A: No. This jam is meant to encourage creativity outside the mainstream Left. We just expect people to be tolerant of right leaning politics and not attack other participants.
Q: Do submissions need to be overtly political?
A: No, although that is acceptable. The goal should be to have fun and stick to the theme.
Q: How much experience do I need?
A: This jam is open to everyone, from beginners to experienced developers. The focus is on creativity and learning.
Q: Can I use pre-made assets?
A: Yes, however they should be clearly attributed and identified. Work on the game should not start until the jam begins.
Q: What if I don't finish my game?
A: Submitting a finished game is encouraged, but the experience and learning process are more important. Submit whatever you have by the deadline.
Q: Where do I submit my game?
A: Submit your game on the itch.io page dedicated to the jam before the deadline. Make sure you set it to public.
Q: Can I stream or share my progress on social media?
A: Yes, sharing your progress is encouraged. Use the discord and join the community conversation.
Q: What happens after the jam?
A: After the jam, you can continue to develop your game, participate in feedback sessions, and network with other developers.
Q: How much time will be spent reviewing my submission to the jam?
A: Judges will spend around 10 minutes on each game. Make sure to also disclaim if your game is an endless game or if it has an ending.
Submissions(50)
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