Orlando Game Jam is coming to the Melrose Center at Orlando Public Library later this month, giving participants a chance to create a complete video game in one weekend.
The weekend will kick off on Thursday, February 27, at 4 p.m. with an information and planning session to learn the secret theme and special challenges, form a team, and plan how to create the perfect game over just one weekend.
Game Jam teams will develop their games during special, extended hours Friday-Sunday. Teams will also have access to Melrose Center resources including four game development workstations, services dedicated to the use of virtual reality and game design resources, a simulator development rig, one sound booth, one editing bay, a 165” seamless LED wall for collaboration, and the Melrose Conference Room.
Games must be complete for judging by noon on Sunday, March 2. When the Orlando Gaming EXPO begins at 1 p.m., attendees and judges will play, give feedback, and vote on the games. Orlando Gaming EXPO also offers a chance to mingle with local video game studios, educators, and developers to ask questions and learn about the amazing things being developed in town.
During the Orlando Gaming EXPO, Orange County Public Schools Exceptional Student Education Instructional Support will provide participants with free gaming books and manuals. Other confirmed exhibitors include Art of RavenWolf, Employers 4 Change, Indienomicon Foundation, OMG Labs and Tap 4 Technologies.
The winners of the Orlando Game Jam will be announced during the Orlando Gaming EXPO closing ceremonies at 5 p.m. The Friends of the Orange County Library System will award cash prizes to the winning teams: $500 for first place, $300 for second place, and $200 for third place.
Learn more about the Game Jam and register to participate at ocls.org/orlando-game-jam/.
