GAME JAM
Create · Collaborate · Code
★ NEXT EVENT: SUMMER JAM 2026 ★Nelson, BC — Twice-yearly · 48 hours · Est. 2024
To register, email [email protected] and e-transfer $20 to the same address.
Nelson Game Jam (NGJ) is a twice-yearly creative event held in Nelson, BC, where passionate developers, artists, musicians, writers, and dreamers come together to build games over an intensive 48-hour period — 5pm Friday to 5pm Sunday, followed by a showcase.
Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience level. Artists, musicians, writers, and anyone with creative passion will find their niche. Board game designers are equally welcome!
We're a chill, flexible community that believes great games come from diverse perspectives and collaborative creativity.
A surprise theme is announced at the start of each jam, sparking creativity and unique interpretations.
From Friday 5pm to Sunday 5pm — conceive, design, develop, and polish your game from scratch.
All teams present their creations right after the jam. Every game gets played, every team celebrated.
| Season | Theme | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Summer 2024 | Elemental | — |
| Winter 2024 | Bubble | Aligned with Global Game Jam |
| Summer 2025 | Tangle | — |
| Winter 2026 | The Darkness | — |
Ready to be part of Nelson's most creative gaming event? To get added to the jam email list, contact:
📧 Send EmailNelson Game Jam is generously supported by KAST, who provide our workspace at the Nelson Innovation Center. KAST's commitment to fostering technology in the Kootenay region makes events like NGJ possible.
📍 Nelson Innovation Center — 91-D Baker St, Nelson, BC
🏢 Visit KAST WebsiteConnect with other game development communities across BC:
Want to tinker before the jam? Great tools to get you started:
Great for solo devs who want a complete 2D game fast. Drag-and-drop or scripting. Perfect for rapid jam dev.
Industry standard — shines with 3D. Tons of free tutorials and assets. Beginner-accessible with a learning curve.
Ideal for ambitious 3D projects. Blueprints lets you script visually — no code required to start.
Work in your art program; Meiker handles all the code. Post games online instantly. Perfect for artists.
The best engine is the one you're comfortable with. Don't spend the whole jam learning new tools!