Global Game Jam: A Decade of Innovation and Community Building (2016–2025)
What is the Global Game Jam?
The Global Game Jam (GGJ) is the world’s largest game creation event, bringing together developers, designers, artists, and storytellers to create games within 48 hours. Held annually in hundreds of locations worldwide, the event fosters creativity, collaboration, and experimentation, encouraging participants to develop innovative games based on a unique theme announced at the start of the jam. GGJ is open to all skill levels, making it a welcoming space for hobbyists and professionals alike to learn, connect, and create.
Each year presented new challenges and opportunities to unite local talent and foster innovation, resulting in an inclusive, supportive, and inspiring environment for aspiring and professional game developers alike.
Overview
For the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a site organizer for the Global Game Jam (GGJ) in Cincinnati, one of the largest and most recognized hackathons in the world. As a champion for creativity and collaboration, I facilitated events that brought together developers, designers, artists, and storytellers to create games in just 48 hours.
Each year presented new challenges and opportunities to unite local talent and foster innovation, resulting in an inclusive, supportive, and inspiring environment for aspiring and professional game developers alike.
Key Accomplishments
Over 1,000 Participants Engaged: Hosted hundreds of participants over the decade, ranging from beginners to seasoned professionals.
Dozens of Games Created Annually: Facilitated the creation of unique games every year, many of which were later showcased at other events or expanded into larger projects.
Inclusive Growth: Fostered a culture of diversity and inclusion, attracting participants from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines.
Global Recognition: Earned recognition for hosting one of the largest and most consistent GGJ sites in the Midwest.
Impact on the Community
The Global Game Jam has been a cornerstone for game development in Cincinnati. Under my leadership:
New game development studios were founded by participants who met at the jam.
Students and hobbyists gained confidence to pursue careers in game development.
The event became a catalyst for collaboration and networking in the region, connecting the local game dev community with industry professionals.
Role and Responsibilities
1. Event Organization & Logistics
Partnered with University of Cincinnati to host the jam annually, ensuring adequate facilities and technical resources for participants.
Organized event logistics, including participant registration, venue setup, catering, and equipment.
Secured sponsorships and partnerships with local businesses and global organizations to fund the event and provide prizes and resources.
2. Community Engagement
Promoted the event across multiple platforms to maximize visibility and participant turnout.
Collaborated with IGDA Cincinnati and other local game development groups to encourage participation and foster a sense of community.
Facilitated networking opportunities during the event, connecting hobbyists with industry professionals.
3. Participant Support & Mentorship
Provided technical and creative support to participants throughout the jam.
Hosted pre-jam workshops on game development tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and 3D modeling software.
Offered mentorship to participants, guiding them through problem-solving, teamwork, and scope management during the jam.
4. Event Themes & Results
Encouraged participants to explore the annual GGJ themes, resulting in innovative, thematic games with diverse mechanics and styles.
Compiled and showcased participant games post-event, providing visibility to developers and their work.