Thatgamecompany and Coreblazer Team Up for Emotionally Driven Game Jam

The studio renowned for moving interactive experiences like Journey and Sky: Children of the Light, Thatgamecompany, has joined forces with games investment group Coreblazer to host a game jam centered around projects that evoke significant emotional responses. This initiative aims to foster the creation of games embodying Thatgamecompany's distinct approach: crafting universally relatable, deeply emotional experiences suitable for all ages. According to Jenova Chen, co-founder and creative director at Thatgamecompany, this event represents a return to the studio's origins and a commitment to expanding the emotional range possible within the gaming medium.

Developers globally, regardless of their experience level, are invited to participate. The jam offers substantial prizes, including $4,000 for the top project overall, and $2,000 each for outstanding visual design, gameplay, and a community favorite award. A notable panel of judges, featuring industry figures like Thatgamecompany's Jenova Chen, USC Games program director emerita Tracy Fullerton, and Hypergryph co-founder Light Zhong, will evaluate the submissions. The event provides a platform not just for competition but for creators to connect and receive insights.

The partnership with Coreblazer, an investment group affiliated with Arknights publisher Hypergryph, is described as a natural alliance, stemming from a shared commitment to supporting independent developers and the belief in the power of heartfelt game design. Light Zhong highlighted how the jam is a convergence of shared values, building on Coreblazer's existing efforts in the indie space. Participants stand to gain significant visibility, with finalists and winners being spotlighted across both organizers' channels and potential showcasing opportunities, including exhibiting at Coreblazer Game Fest 2025 in Shanghai.