IGDA San Diego Global Game Jam 2026

The Global Game Jam® (GGJ) is the world's largest game jam event (game creation) taking place around the world at physical locations. Think of it as a hackathon focused on game development. It is the growth of an idea that in today’s heavily connected world, we could come together, be creative, share experiences and express ourselves in a multitude of ways using video games – it is very universal. The weekend stirs a global creative buzz in games, while at the same time exploring the process of development, be it programming, iterative design, narrative exploration or artistic expression. It is all condensed into a 48 hour development cycle. The GGJ encourages people with all kinds of backgrounds to participate and contribute to this global spread of game development and creativity.

The structure of a jam is usually that everyone gathers on Friday late afternoon, watches a short video keynote with advice from leading game developers, and then a secret theme is announced. All sites worldwide are then challenged to make games based on that same theme, with games to be completed by Sunday afternoon.

The jam is known for helping foster new friendships, increase confidence and opportunities within the community. The jam is always an intellectual challenge. People are invited to explore new technology tools, trying on new roles in development and testing their skills to do something that requires them to design, develop create, test and make a new game in the time span of 48 hours.

Ticket Prices

Early Bird - $35

General Admission - $40

Walk In/During The Jam (If not sold out) - $40

General Information

Food and drinks will be provided all weekend.

Computers and software are available on site or you can bring your own laptops.

Shopping center nearby for food and supplies.

There is no overnight sleeping. The Mesa College Campus closes at 9pm Friday and Saturday.

5:30pm - 6:00pm: Check in

6:00pm - 6:30pm : Opening statements, theme reveal, ground rules

6:30pm - 8:00pm: Jam Starts! Pitch ideas, form teams, and eat pizza!

9:00pm: Campus Doors close, join us again tomorrow!

9:00am: Campus Doors Open

10:00am: Brunch

6:00pm: Dinner

9:00pm: Campus Doors close, join us tomorrow!

9:00am: Campus Doors Open

10:00am: Brunch

5:00pm: Dinner

6:30pm: Submission window closes, Game showcase starts

7:00 - 8:00pm: Cleaning the campus

8:00pm: Campus Doors close, thanks for joining us!

Sponsor us!

If you are interested in sponsoring please email [email protected].

Stay up to date with details by joining or Discord!

What is a game jam?

A game jam is an event where pros and hobbyists come together to build a game in a set period of time, usually 48 hours. Participants are given a theme and set out to interpret that theme into a game in small groups.

Is this a competition?

The GGJ is designed to stimulates collaboration and is not a competition.

How many people will be there?

We expect 50 participants. There is no overnight staying as the campus closes at 9pm. You can continue jamming virtually at night.

Do I need to be a game developer to attend?

The jam is open to everyone regardless of skill level or profession.

What kind of games can I make?

All types of video games and board games.

Do I have to stay for the whole event?

Nope, you are free to come and go as you please. Join us virtually if you desire! Make sure to keep your wristband.

Do I need to be an IGDA member to participate?

This event is open to the public.

Health and Safety

Masks are recommended while indoors.

Still have questions? Contact us at [email protected]!

We will be in building BT! Parking is available in Lot 7 and 8, along with parking along the street.

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Host or Publisher IGDA San Diego