The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment (MADE) has joined forces with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for a unique 24- hour game jam. The “Being an Ally Game Jam” will take place this weekend in select cities around the US. Its purpose is for game developers to come together and create new games and experiences that teach empathy, support, and kindness.
Here’s the full description:
With America currently as divided as ever and more people being targeted by bias, bullying and hatred, both online and offline, the goal of the “Being an Ally Game Jam” is to reinforce and encourage positive behavior towards others through video games. The games developed as part of this Game Jam will be a tool to help explore and illustrate what it means to be an ally — both for the people developing the games and for the people playing and spreading the word about them afterwards.
Participating developers are encouraged to incorporate elements from “Be An Ally: Six Simple Ways.” Games will be reviewed by the ADL based on how well these behaviors are included (at least 2 specific ally behaviors must be included), as well as overall creativity and playability. Teams will be formed during the start of the event.
The winning team will receive a $2,500 cash prize, an 8-week course in game engine Unity or Unreal, and membership into the International Game Developers Association. Their game will also be showcased at ADL’s Never is Now summit in San Francisco in November, with the winning team will be invited. Other prizes include a Nintendo Switch and SNES Classic Edition.
The “Being an Ally Game Jam” will run from Saturday, October 21 to Sunday, October 22 in Austin, TX; New York, NY; Oakland, CA; and Santa Barbara, CA. Interested developers can register here.
