Game Jam: An Insider’s Look at Game Design

WORLD CLASS GAME DESIGN EXPERTS. ONE CRAZY CHALLENGE. A NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY LIKE NO OTHER.

THE CHALLENGE: LET’S AGREE TO DISAGREE

It’s been called a “dying art.” In the age of social media, where we tend to surround ourselves with people who share our views, the notion that we can disagree in a civil way (and remain friends), has all but disappeared. “I disagree.” “No, thank you.” “That’s not for me.” These are the words of confidence, individuality, growth, unique perspectives and even democracy. Yet the polarizing effect of clicking “like” has reinforced a habit where we hide in the comfort zone of our filter bubbles. To disagree intelligently is to first understand another idea fully, and to share our views in a rational and measured way.

THE MISSION:

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to design a game (video or board) that drives home the point that we can disagree in civil ways. You will be tasked with adapting a story from the Toronto Public Library’s Special Collection into an innovative and exciting game.

YOUR JOURNEY:

Working in teams, and guided by leading video game and design thinking experts, you will undertake a fun and fast-paced iterative game design process that will take you from concept to prototype. At the end of the jam, your team will pitch your game to a panel of gaming experts who will award a prize for Top Game.

THE GOODS:

When your mission is complete you will grasp the fundamentals of game design, understand a co-creation approach and realize the power of the design thinking. You will gain a rich new network of world class game designers and enthusiasts, and an appreciation for the capacity of games to be a tool for good.

*Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Please notify us of any food restrictions in advance.