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How are you prepping for the jam?

A topic by asher_snow created Jul 14, 2023 Views: 342 Replies: 2
Viewing posts 1 to 2

Per the rules, "Brainstorming, planning, and outlining before the jam starts is completely fine! However, actual game assets should be created within the jam timeframe."

So I wanna know, how are you prepping? 

I'm brainstorming how large my scope can be and working on a schedule to begin working while still managing my full time job, social life, and maintaining a house. 

I'm also concept arting a lil' guy who may work for a few different themes depending on what theme the jam overlords decide.

So let me know!

I personally am not very good at drawing/illustration. I do programming outside of games, recently been messing with the Bukkit API for Minecraft servers to write my own simple plugins. Most of my coding is done in Java; I write applications in my free-time. I've become very accustomed to writing Java code and I want to use this game jam to push myself. Since we still have 7+ days before the jam starts, I'm going to figure out what other language I will be writing in for this jam. 

Ultimately, the choice is yours in regards to the vast selection of languages and pre-written game engines that come free with marketplaces that can many times contain free game assets. I've personally never participated in a game jam but what I know for certain is that not setting a scope or milestones to a project can quickly lead to disaster. Games are meant to be fun! While we don't know what the theme of this game jam will be, of course it's optional and meant to inspire rather than restrict, use this time now to help narrow down what it is you will be doing for the duration of the game jam. Are you going to make an artsy type game that relies on atmosphere and charm? Or do you have a simple gameplay loop that you think could be delivered on schedule with room for the project to grow? Do you have a previously brainstormed world-lore that you want to bring to life through NPC dialogue?

In a universe of choices, make yours wisely. Take the time now to look into just how your game will be designed. Network with other first time jammers of different skillsets to learn new things and challenge what you preconceived yourself being capable of. Dream, but set a destination for that dream to take place. Don't overwhelm yourself with the next AAA game concept. Make something that feels unique and true to you as a creative individual. 

Best of luck to you!

You got me beat, I can barely code my way out of a paper bag! (Another skill I want to push this jam). And I am barely competent at drawing, thankfully, digital editing gives me a bit of help.

And yes, scope is gonna be a huge factor. None of us should try to remake Elden Ring 1:1 for this!

I'm still coming up with overall goals but definitely one of them is to go from concept art to 3d model to in-game asset. I think implementing my own code will be a tertiary goal.

And yes, it is important to remember that the theme is optional! I plan on actually trying to brainstorm as much as I can and if I need to scrap then I scrap. I am sure you're familiar about clients changing their minds in your field (but that is an assumption). Even in my own job, the attorney I assist will change the project's scope mid-project (ie, instead of looking at pre-marital standard of living, he now wants to see what monies our client would need to maintain the standard 1:1) so I have to pivot. It is a good practice to remain flexible and keep what I can in a different field (this being the game jam).

Best of luck to you as well, Corvus!