First Game Jam? You've Got This.
This guide will help you prepare, set expectations, and get the most out of your first jam experience.
New to game jams? Learn what game jams are first.
Common Concerns (And Why They're Okay)
Nervous about your first jam? Here are honest answers to common worries.
"Is my skill level good enough?"
Yes, all levels are welcome.
If you can make a character move and detect collisions in GameMaker, you're ready. Many participants have minimal experience. The game jam is about learning and finishing, not perfection.
"What if I can't finish?"
Incomplete submissions are welcome.
A playable prototype teaches you more than a perfect plan never executed. Submit what you have. You'll get constructive feedback regardless.
"Do I need a team?"
Solo is totally fine.
Many successful entries are solo projects. Working alone lets you move fast and learn every aspect. If you want teammates, the Discord has team-finding channels.
"What tools can I use?"
GameMaker only, plus any creative tools.
The game engine must be GameMaker. You can use any creative tools, but your game content (art, audio, code) must be created during the 48 hours. Specific categories like fonts, generators, and free community resources are exempt. See the full rules for details.
The gm(48) Journey
Here's what a jam cycle looks like from start to finish
Theme Voting (2 weeks before)
Suggest and vote on themes with the community. The winning theme is revealed at jam start.
Jam Start (Friday evening)
The theme is revealed. Brainstorm ideas, pick a scope you can finish, and start building. Keep it simple.
Development (48 hours)
Build your game. Focus on a core mechanic that works. Add polish if time allows. Take breaks, eat meals, sleep. Discord is active if you need help.
Submission (Sunday evening)
Upload your game with screenshots, a description, and instructions. Don't wait until the last minute—leave buffer time for unexpected issues.
Rating Period (2 weeks)
Competition entries write feedback on at least 10 other entries. Ratings alone don't count. If you're on a team, only the team owner needs to do this. Non-competing submissions stay public but skip the results of the competition and prizes.
Results (2 weeks after submission)
Rankings are announced. Top games receive GameMaker licenses and prizes.
Before the Jam Starts
A quick checklist to set yourself up for success
Tools & Setup
- Download GameMaker (the free version works)
- Complete a basic tutorial or two
- Set up your art and audio tools
- Test exporting a simple project
Scope & Pacing Tips for 48 Hours
Pace yourself over 48 hours. Here's a rough rhythm:
- Hours 0–4: Brainstorm, sketch your core idea, plan scope ruthlessly. Aim for one simple mechanic.
- Hours 4–32: Build your core gameplay. Get something playable before you polish.
- Hours 32–40: Test, fix bugs, balance difficulty. Cut features that won't make the deadline.
- Hours 40–48: Package, write instructions, prepare screenshots. Submit early; don't wait until the last minute.
Curated Resources
Helpful links to get you started
Learning GameMaker
Jam Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions
Tips for Your First Jam
Ready to Join?
The next gm(48) is September 12, 2026. Create your account, join the Discord, and start preparing.
Have questions? Contact the organizers (including accessibility needs), browse the FAQ, or ask on Discord.
