Yes indeed, only a cutscene in the given theme at the start of the jam, no gameplay.

We will also include a field where participants can explain how they ensure we can verify the cutscene is not pre-rendered.

The explanation doesn't need to look polished or visually appealing—it’s solely for verification purposes. Once the verification is complete, the cutscene will be judged solely on its storytelling and cinematic qualities, without consideration of the verification method.

Proof of Real-Time Rendering (fill in during submission)
Describe how your cutscene demonstrates real-time rendering. If you implemented minimal camera controls (e.g., subtle panning or rotation), specify the controls used. If you employed another method, detail your approach to confirm the cutscene is rendered in real time.

This information will help us verify the authenticity of real-time rendering in your submission.

Here are some other possible options to implement "camera interaction" or demonstrate real-time rendering in a 2D cutscene:

1. Slight Parallax or Background Shift

• Shift the background or elements in the scene slightly in response to user input (e.g., arrow keys or mouse movement).
• This creates a subtle but effective indication of interactivity, mimicking camera movement in a way that works for 2D.

2. Scaling or Layer Movement

• Add a zoom-in or zoom-out effect triggered by a key press, or slightly move a foreground or background layer to create a parallax effect.
• This interaction stays non-intrusive while demonstrating real-time rendering.

3. Transparency Toggles

• Allow the player to make specific sprites or layers transparent or toggle their visibility by pressing a key.
• This method provides an obvious but simple cue of interactivity. 

4. Dynamic Scene Adjustments

• Enable small changes to the scene, such as turning an effect (e.g., glow or lighting) on or off, or repositioning an object slightly with a key press.
• These adjustments confirm real-time rendering while allowing the cinematic experience to remain uninterrupted.

Parallax Backgrounds

• If the style allows, you can include parallax backgrounds to create a sense of depth. However, this may not fit every cutscene.

And of course any other option you can think of to proof it is real-time rendered and not pre-rendered.

Yes, you can ✅ if they both fit the theme also of course. 

https://x.com/itchio/status/1866017758040993829

itch.io was down for us and we could not upload the theme :-(.
We have now access again and will publish the theme ASAP

The theme is revealed by now...!