thatgamecompany (TGC), the visionary and artistic studio behind Journey and Sky: Children of the Light, has announced “thatgamejam,” the company’s first independently organized game jam.
thatgamejam invites developers of all skill levels to create innovative and interactive games that are inspired by thatgamecompany’s signature style – games that are universally accessible, deeply emotional, and designed to connect players of all ages. The event aims to provide a supportive and inclusive space where developers can have fun experimenting, learning, and sharing their visions with a global community.
Submissions will be reviewed by team members from thatgamecompany and other industry figures. Finalist submissions will be evaluated by thatgamecompany CEO and creative director Jenova Chen and professor, author, and director of the USC Game Innovation Lab Tracy Fullerton.
“The energy and imagination that flowed from our first Game Jam left a lasting impression, as it reminded us why we create games in the first place,” said Jenova Chen, CEO and Creative Director of thatgamecompany.
“At our core, we make games that bring people closer through empathy, imagination, and shared emotion. We know there is a community of game developers full of that same creative spirit, and we’re excited to see how this new generation of devs reimagine what emotional connection can look like in games.”
thatgamecompany’s previous game jams drew hundreds of submissions from emerging developers who impressed the judges with their creativity, artistry, and heartfelt storytelling. The new collaboration aims to build on that momentum to celebrate innovation while connecting aspiring developers within a global community. They also shared more information on what participants can expect from joining thatgamejam:
Celebrating Four-Quadrant Games
In line with thatgamecompany’s belief in the power of emotionally resonant and widely enjoyable game design, thatgamejam aims to support the creation of four-quadrant games – interactive experiences that are equally enjoyed by all ages.
Worldwide Invite for Participation
Aspiring developers from around the world of all levels – from game dev students to experienced creatives – are all encouraged to participate.
Awards & Prizes
Qualifying projects will be recognized in multiple categories including “Best Overall,” for a grand prize of $3,000, “Best Visual Design,” “Best Gameplay,” and “Most Heartfelt” each with a cash reward of $2,000 respectively, and the “Community’s Voice” with a cash reward of $1,000.
Easy Submission Process
Participants can read all guidelines and rules and conveniently submit their projects online here. Participants can begin anytime between now and the submission deadline of January 4, 2026.
Awards Showcase
Winners of each category will be announced on February 14, 2026
A Dedicated Discord Server
Brainstorm, collaborate, and learn from your fellow developers during and after thatgamejam as part of a brand new community spearheaded by thatgamecompany. Regular events will foster skill-sharing, direct discussions with experienced thatgamecompany team members, and additional opportunities.
More details on thatgamejam can be found on the official itch.io page.
