"Groove Jam" is a rhythm game jam that challenges participants to create their own unique rhythm games in a limited amount of time, (The jam lasts for a week.) during which participants will work to design and code their games, incorporating various rhythmic elements and mechanics to make their games engaging and enjoyable for players.

Here are the rules for "Groove Jam":

1. All games must be original creations made specifically for the jam.
2. Participants may work alone or in teams, but each team may only submit one game.
3. Participants must credit any third-party assets used in their games, including music, sound effects, and graphics.
4. Any inappropriate content, including but not limited to offensive language, sexual content, and hate speech, will not be tolerated and may result in disqualification from the jam.
5. All games must be submitted before the jam deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.
   
6. Participants must provide a brief description of their game, including any special instructions or controls necessary to play the game.
7. Participants may not solicit votes or engage in any form of cheating or unfair practices. Any evidence of cheating or solicitation of votes may result in disqualification from the jam.
8. Participants must have the necessary rights and permissions to use any copyrighted materials in their games, including music, sound effects, and graphics.

After the jam has concluded, the games will be evaluated based on the following categories:

1. Gameplay: This category evaluates the overall fun factor and playability of the game, as well as the incorporation of rhythmic elements and mechanics.
2. Music Selection: This category evaluates the quality and appropriateness of the music selection, as well as how well it fits with the gameplay and theme of the game.
3. Graphics: This category evaluates the quality and appropriateness of the game's graphics, including character design, backgrounds, and visual effects.
4. Innovation: This category evaluates the uniqueness and creativity of the game, as well as the incorporation of new ideas or mechanics.
5. Beat Sync: This category evaluates how well the game's rhythm and beat sync with the music, as well as the accuracy of the rhythm elements used in the game.
   
6. Difficulty Curve: This category evaluates how well the game's difficulty curve progresses throughout the game, taking into account the player's skill level and experience.
7. Audio Design: This category evaluates the overall sound design of the game, including the quality of the music and sound effects, and how well they enhance the player's experience.
8. Visual Effects: This category evaluates the quality and appropriateness of the visual effects used in the game, including particle effects, animations, and transitions.
9. User Interface: This category evaluates the overall design and usability of the game's user interface, including the layout and accessibility of menus, controls, and other interactive elements.

At the end of the evaluation process, the judges will select the winning entry based on the above criteria. The winner will receive a cash prize of $20.

We understand that the prize money may not be significant, but as we host more "Groove Jam" events and grow our community of rhythm game developers, we plan to increase the prize money accordingly. Our goal is to create a supportive and inclusive community of game developers who are passionate about rhythm games and are excited to collaborate and learn from each other.

As a first-time jam host, I am excited to see what our community of rhythm game developers can create together. I can't wait to see the innovative ideas and creative projects that will come out of "Groove Jam". Let's make this a jam to remember!