Saskatchewan developers showcase their skills and creativity at Game Jam Saskatoon, where they create fully functional video games in just 48 hours. With the theme of Make Me Laugh, 53 coders, either working solo or in small teams, participated in this intense event.
Organized by Michael Long, Game Jam Saskatoon challenges developers to put together video games within a short timeframe. When asked about the secret behind this feat, Long humorously replied, With a lot of sweat, tears, and pizza.
One participant, Matt Weeks, stood out by incorporating 3D scans of himself as AI enemies in his game. Alluding to a famous superhero, he said, You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain. This unique approach showcased Weeks’ innovation and creativity.
Another team of game and arts design students introduced a reverse dating sim where players experience rejection. This unconventional concept brought a fresh perspective to the event and highlighted the diverse ideas presented at Game Jam Saskatoon.
Aside from fostering creativity, the 48-hour timeline also challenges participants to work under deadline-oriented conditions, providing valuable experience relevant to the game development industry. Long expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, It’s a lot of work, but it’s a lot of fun. And [it] teaches very important skills like teamwork, coding, and deadlines.
One of the primary goals of Game Jam Saskatoon is to contribute to the growth of Saskatchewan’s game development scene. With the video game industry in the province being relatively small, the organizers aim to train and support more developers, fostering innovation and expansion.
Game Jam Saskatoon serves as a platform for up-and-coming developers to showcase their talents and contribute to the development landscape of Saskatchewan. It provides a space for new ideas to flourish within the constraints of a demanding timeline. By bringing developers together, this event encourages collaboration and growth within the local game development community.
——
Keywords: Game Jam Saskatoon, Saskatchewan developers, fully functional video games, 48 hours, Michael Long, video game development, sweat, tears, pizza, coders, Make Me Laugh, Matt Weeks, 3D scans, AI enemies, superhero, reverse dating sim, rejection, creativity, deadline-oriented conditions, teamwork, coding, deadlines, game development industry, Saskatchewan’s game development scene, growth, training, innovation, expansion.
