Welcome to the SHIFT RPG Game Jam 2026!

To celebrate the public release of SHIFT RPG, we’re hosting a game jam where you can make anything you want with the SHIFT RPG system. SHIFT is a narrative-driven, rules-light, flexible system that can be played in any setting you choose.

Here are some ideas for what to make:

• Adversaries: monsters, environments, or other obstacles for players to face
• Focus traits: player-facing mechanics with Shift dice associated with them
• Techniques: limited-use player abilities
• World Sparks: microsettings in which SHIFT can be played
• Mechanics that expand on the core rules
• New games that use the SHIFT system

Not sure if SHIFT is for you? Check out our free quickstart and try it out!

Resources

• SHIFT RPG Discord server
• SHIFT RPG Core Rulebook
• SHIFT RPG Open License
• How to Play SHIFT RPG
• Designing World Sparks with SHIFT RPG

SHIFT RPG Game Jam Rules

• All entries must be created with the SHIFT Open License and include the attribution “This work was created using Hit Point Press’ Powered by SHIFT Open License v1.0, ©2026, Hit Point Press Inc. Learn more at rpgshift.com. [Your game name] is an independent production by [Author or Publisher] and is not affiliated with Hit Point Press.”
• Works created before the game jam period are welcome
• Works that promote oppression and bigoted views are not permitted
• No generative AI (Chat GPT, Stable Diffusion, Midjourney, etc.) allowed

Join the SHIFT RPG Discord server to connect with the SHIFT developers, brainstorm ideas, share your work, and meet other SHIFT designers, GMs, and players!

FAQ

What is SHIFT RPG?
SHIFT RPG is an indie tabletop roleplaying game that uses d4s through d12s. It is designed to facilitate exciting stories in any world you like! Learn more at http://rpgshift.com or download the free quickstart!

What is a game jam?
A game jam is an event where people come together to make games during a set time period. Game jams often have themes, prompts, or are geared towards specific rule sets, such as SHIFT. Game jams are a way to join a community of creators and showcase your creativity!

Can I join the game jam even if I’m not a game designer?
Yes, creators of all experience levels are welcome, including those who have never made a game before! If you want to dip a toe into game design, SHIFT is a great starting point. 

How do I design a game with SHIFT?
SHIFT is a rules-light, flexible system with many mechanics to choose from! If you want to make player-facing content, try creating a Trait! If you enjoy designing challenges and obstacles for players to overcome, you’ll want to try your hand at Adversaries. To find out more about how to design for SHIFT, we have tutorials and gameplay tips in our YouTube playlist here.

You can also learn how to design World Sparks with SHIFT in this video here, and complete the SHIFT World Spark Workbook that guides you through creating a microsetting for SHIFT. You can also join the SHIFT RPG Discord server and pick the SHIFT developers’ brains!

Does Hit Point Press own my work?
No, you own all work created under the SHIFT Open License.

Can I sell my work for a profit?
As long as you use the attribution correctly, you are welcome to sell your SHIFT-compatible work and make money from it.

Will Hit Point Press publish my work as an official SHIFT project? 
If you are interested in publishing with Hit Point Press, please contact support@hitpointpress.com for more information.