CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - Southeast Missouri State University’s Game Jam in late April will give students with a passion for gaming the chance to bring their ideas to life.
Hosted by the Department of Computer Science and the Game Development club, the event will be April 24-26 in Dempster Hall.
According to the university, Game Jam helps aspiring developers from across the region collaborate and create original video games in a competitive, time-based event.
“The Game Jam directly aligns with the skills and learning objectives taught in SEMO’s Game Development program,” said Ethan Chou, computer science and game development instructor at SEMO. “This gives students a chance to apply what they have learned in the classroom, and for outside attendees to experience what our program is all about. By designing and building an actual game, and working under this tight timeline, students gain real experience with game development.”
The opening ceremony kick off at 5 p.m. on Friday where participants will get a randomized theme. Teams will then have the weekend to design and develop a fully playable game.
ADVERTISEMENT
Organizers say submissions will be evaluated on creativity, execution and overall design.
Winners will receive prizes along with a trophy and recognition as champions of SEMO’s inaugural Game Jam.
According to the university, games created during the event will be available for public play on Itch.io after the competition.
While the event is free to attend, participants must register in advance and have an Itch.io account to submit their games. You can click here for registration information.
You can click here to learn more about a gaming development degree at SEMO.
Copyright 2026 KFVS. All rights reserved.