Third Annual Global Game Jam Ramps Up, Allows Board/Card Games

Organizers of the Global Game Jam, now in its third year, have announced that the show looks to be even bigger than last, with 125 sites in 37 countries likely to surpass last year's 4,300 participants. Kicking off January 28th, 2011, the event will task game developers to form teams and create a new independent video game in a single weekend, from concept to completion. This year, the Global Game Jam and the affiliated International Game Developers Association will accept non-digital submissions -- board, card and physical games -- for the first time. GameSpy Technology, Autodesk and Intel are the event's key sponsors. The IGDA says that when every team member worldwide is given the same constraint and rules, it presents an interesting opportunity to engender innovation and experimentation. It also lets people on all levels, from skilled developers to students and hobbyists, learn from the experience of working together. "The GGJ works perfectly into the mission of the International Game Developers Association. It connects members with their peers and cultivates professional development," says IGDA executive director Gordon Bellamy. Interested parties can find more info about the Global Game Jam at the event's official website.