Welcome to the NCS Wellbeing Game Jam 2024!

This year, the theme is "Wellbeing"—a broad and meaningful topic that invites you to explore how games can reflect and support various aspects of wellbeing. Whether your focus is on Mental Health, Physical Health, Social Wellbeing, Emotional Wellbeing, or even Environmental Wellbeing, this is your chance to create a game that makes a difference.

We encourage creativity, inclusivity, and innovation. Whether you're tackling mindfulness, teamwork, sustainable environments, or emotional resilience, your game could inspire others and start important conversations.

How It Works

• Theme: Wellbeing (interpret it your way!)
• Duration:
  • Starts: December 2nd, 9:00 AM
  • Ends: December 18th, 11:59 PM
• Platform: Submit your games on our Itch.io Jam Page.
• Showcase: All submitted games will be showcased on the morning of the December 20th (venue TBC) , where we’ll celebrate your hard work and creativity!
• Expect Prizes, lots of clapping and cheering!

Rules & Guidelines

1. Team Size: Teams of up to 4 students - List on the notice board outside N4.18.
2. Development Tools: Use any engine or tools you're comfortable with (Unity, Godot, Ren'Py).
3. Assets: Pre-made assets are allowed but must be credited.
4. Content: Games must adhere to the theme and be suitable for all audiences (PEGI 7).
5. Submission Requirements:
   • Playable ZIP build uploaded to the Game Jam page (max 500mb).
   • Description of the game and its link to wellbeing (max 500 words).
   • Supporting files: design documents, screenshots, and video pitch lasting no more than 3 minutes of the Game and how the wellbeing brief has been integrated.

Judging Criteria

Games will be assessed by the New College Swindon Games Design team, members of the Wellbeing Team & Industry Professionals, based on the following, with a maximum 100 points available:

1. Creativity & Theme Integration - 20 points - How well does the game showcase creative ideas and integrate the theme of wellbeing?
   
   • Games should demonstrate original thinking, innovation, and unique approaches to the theme.
   • The connection to wellbeing should be clear and meaningful, reflecting one or more aspects (Mental, Physical, Social, Emotional, Environmental).
   • Important: As this Game Jam adheres to a PEGI 7 rating, games must avoid themes of violence, or any harmful depictions. Focus on creating uplifting, safe, and inclusive experiences.
2. Gameplay Mechanics - 20 points - How engaging and functional are the game's mechanics?
   
   • Focus on the playability and enjoyment of the game.
   • Mechanics should be intuitive and work without major bugs or issues.
   • Bonus points for creative or innovative gameplay elements.
3. Visual & Audio Design - 20 points - How effective and appealing are the visuals and sound?
   
   • The game should have cohesive and intentional art direction (even simple visuals can score well if thoughtfully designed).
   • Audio should enhance the experience, whether through sound effects, music, or ambiance.
4. Overall Presentation - 20 points - How polished and complete does the game feel as a whole?
   
   • Games should have a clear, professional feel, even if they are simple in scope.
   • Menus, instructions, and user interface elements should be intuitive and easy to navigate.
   • Bonus points for thoughtful finishing touches or an immersive experience.
5. Documentation - 20 points - How well is the development process documented?
   
   • Teams should provide clear documentation, such as a short design document or development log.
   • Documentation should explain their concept, connection to the theme, challenges faced, and how the game evolved during development.
   • Bonus points for including visuals like sketches, screenshots, or notes that show the creative process

Prizes & Recognition

All participants will receive a certificate of participation, and standout games will be highlighted during the showcase event, with an overall winner and a runners up prize.