Swayambhu Game Jam 2026

Powered by Game Connect by GDAI Organized by The Game Architects (TGA) Jawaharlal Nehru Engineering College, MGM University About the Challenge: Swayambhu Game Jam 2026 is a structured, high-intensity game development competition built for creators who want to move beyond casual prototyping and into serious gameplay architecture. This challenge brings together student innovators from across campuses to build, test, and pitch original games under competitive conditions. Backed by Game Connect by GDAI, the event provides industry-aligned exposure and structured evaluation. Key Highlights: IGDC Free Passes for Winners ₹5,000 Total Prize Pool Industry-Backed Initiative Hidden Finale Theme Reveal Structured Evaluation Framework Open to All Colleges On-Campus Grand Finale Why Participate? Compete on a national-level platform Gain exposure through GDAI Build a portfolio-ready project Experience structured development pressure Win IGDC passes & cash prizes Timeline: Round 1 – Online Qualification 20th February – Submission Window Opens 23rd February – Submission Deadline Theme: “Loop” Teams must submit a structured Game Concept Document based on the theme. Submission Must Include: Core Gameplay Mechanic Puzzle/System Design Structure Theme Interpretation Technical Approach Overview Top teams will be shortlisted for the Finale. Round 2 – On-Campus Grand Finale 27th February – Final Development Sprint 28th February – Jury Evaluation & Prize Distribution Main Theme & Genre will be revealed on the event day. Finalists will: Build or refine a playable game Present a 3–5 minute pitch Undergo live playtesting Face structured jury evaluation This stage simulates a real-world development sprint and review environment. ️ How It Works Step 1: Register Team Leader must register on: Official Registration Link : https://erp.mgmu.ac.in/asd_EventPublicUserMaster.htm?eventID=199 Unstop Event Page (Both registrations are mandatory.) Step 2: Qualify Online Submit your concept for the Mini Theme “Loop”. Step 3: Compete On Campus Shortlisted teams build, pitch, and present before jury. Eligibility Open to Diploma, Undergraduate & Postgraduate students Team Size: 2 Members Entry Fee: ₹150 per team Participants can bring their own laptops. Rewards & Recognition 1st Prize ₹3,000 worth (Cash / Equivalent) IGDC Free Passes 2nd Prize ₹2,000 worth (Cash / Equivalent) IGDC Free Passes Certificates for Participants Evaluation Criteria Innovation & Originality Gameplay Depth Theme Integration Technical Quality Game Feel & UX Stability Presentation & Design Rationale FAQs Can we participate if we are from another college? No. Inter-college Teams are not allowed. Is it mandatory for both members to register? Yes. Both members must register on Unstop. The Team Leader must also register via the official link. Do we need prior game development experience? Basic knowledge of any game engine (Unity, Unreal, Godot, etc.) is recommended. What should we bring for the Finale? Participants can bring their own laptops and necessary development tools. When will the main theme be revealed? The main theme and genre constraint will be revealed during the on-campus finale. Powered By Game Connect by GDAI Swayambhu Game Jam 2026 is powered by Game Connect by GDAI, an initiative focused on strengthening India’s game development ecosystem by connecting emerging talent with industry opportunities. Through Game Connect, GDAI supports: Student game development communities Industry-academia collaboration Structured evaluation frameworks Exposure pathways for young developers Their involvement ensures that this competition aligns with professional game development standards and industry expectations. About IGDC The India Game Developer Conference (IGDC) is one of India’s premier game development conferences, bringing together developers, studios, publishers, investors, and industry leaders from across the country. IGDC provides: Industry networking opportunities Knowledge sessions & expert panels Exposure to emerging trends in game development Interaction with leading studios and professionals Winning teams at Swayambhu Game Jam 2026 will receive IGDC Free Passes, offering direct exposure to India’s growing game development ecosystem. Ready to Compete? Build under pressure. Architect your world. Win IGDC Passes. Register Now