🌿 Welcome to the Nature's Whisper Jam! In this jam, your challenge is to create a game that showcases the wonders of nature. Explore themes of growth, ecosystems, or the delicate balance of the environment. Whether it’s a serene journey through a lush forest or a survival challenge in the wild, let nature inspire your creativity! 🍃✨

📅 Important Dates

• Jam Start: 8th November 2024 
• Jam End: 16th November 2024
• Voting Period: 16th November 2024 - 19th November 2024

The jam officially starts soon, so gather your ideas and get ready to connect with the natural world!

🌼 Theme: Nature's Whisper

Your game should incorporate the theme of Nature's Whisper! Consider the following interpretations:

• Nature’s Sounds: Use environmental sounds and music to convey the essence of nature.
• Ecosystems: Explore the interactions between different species, plants, and habitats.
• Growth and Change: Focus on themes of growth, whether it’s a character, a plant, or the environment itself.
• Nature as a Character: Make the environment or natural elements pivotal to the story or gameplay.

Let your imagination run wild with the endless possibilities nature offers! 🌈🐦

🌍 Rules

1. Theme Focus: Your game must reflect the Nature's Whisper theme.
2. Original Content: All major game content should be created during the jam. Free or pre-made assets are allowed but must be credited. Original assets are encouraged. 🎨
3. Team or Solo: Work alone or in collaboration with others—whichever you prefer! 👥
4. Supported Platforms: Games must be playable on Web, Windows, Mac, or Linux.
5. Submission: Only one submission per participant/team. Updates are allowed until the end date. 🚀

🌱 Optional Twist: "Sound of Nature Challenge" 🎶

For an extra creative challenge, include a "Sound of Nature" mechanic in your game!

What’s the Challenge? 🌍 Use nature-inspired sounds or music as a core mechanic—whether to solve puzzles, navigate the environment, or interact with characters. This twist will encourage you to immerse players in a rich auditory experience!

Participants who take on this challenge will receive special recognition in the Discord server! 🌟🏅

Note: You must say if you did the challenge.

🎨 Ideas for Inspiration

• Exploration Adventure: Create a game where players explore different natural environments, discovering flora and fauna.
• Ecosystem Simulator: Build a simulation where players manage or observe a delicate ecosystem.
• Growth Mechanic: Design a game where players nurture a plant or creature that grows and changes with time.
• Environmental Puzzles: Incorporate puzzles that rely on understanding nature, like using sunlight, water, or seasons.
• Nature’s Story: Craft a narrative that conveys a message about conservation, harmony, or the beauty of the natural world.

📝 Submission Guidelines

• Game Summary: Include a brief (100 words or fewer) description of your game and its connection to the theme.
• Nature Elements: Explain how you interpreted the theme and incorporated nature into gameplay or storytelling.
• Playable Version: Ensure your game is fully playable (Web builds preferred, but PC/Mac downloads are accepted).
• Deadline: Submit before 16th November 2024.

🏆 Judging Criteria

After the jam, submissions will be rated on the following:

• Theme Relevance (Nature's Whisper): How well does the game integrate nature as a core element?
• Innovation: Are the nature mechanics or story elements original and engaging?
• Fun Factor: How enjoyable and engaging is the gameplay?
• Visual & Audio Presentation: Are the aesthetics and sound design immersive and effective?
• Optional Twist: Special recognition for those who incorporate the Sound of Nature Challenge! 🏅

🎖️ Prizes & Rewards

While this jam is all about creativity and fun, top entries will receive:

• 🎖️ Feature Spot: Top 3 games will be highlighted on the jam page.
• 🌟 Special Mentions: Awards for best representation of nature, most creative gameplay, and best narrative!
• 🏅 Discord Shoutout: Winners will receive special recognition in the Discord server.

💬 Community and Support

• Join the Community: Connect with fellow jammers, share progress, and get feedback on https://discord.gg/f7cNtmU5.
• Stay Connected: Use the hashtag #NaturesWhisperJam to share your journey and connect on social media!

❓ FAQ

Can I use any game engine? Yes! Use whichever engine or tools you prefer.

Can I work in a team? Absolutely! Teams or solo participants are both welcome.

What if I don’t finish in time? Submit whatever you have, even if it’s unfinished! We love seeing progress and getting feedback for future jams.

What if I’m new to game jams? No worries! Game jams are all about learning, experimenting, and meeting other game creators. We’re excited to see what you create!

Let’s celebrate the beauty of nature together in the Nature's Whisper Jam! 🌼🌳✨