In a move that’s sure to excite Oculus Rift developers around the globe, Oculus has partnered with IndieCade for an worldwide ‘VR Jam’ game development contest. $50,000 in prizes are up for grabs, including a grand prize of $10,000.
When new gaming hardware hits the streets, it’s always a chicken and egg problem. Developers aren’t going to make games if no one owns the hardware. Consumers aren’t going to buy the hardware if there are no games to play.
In the era of app stores, we’ve see companies tackle this problem by trying to stimulate interest in their platform by offering up prizes and contests; Oculus is taking a similar approach with the forthcoming VR Jam. During the VR Jam developers “will be challenged to build new, innovative virtual reality games and experiences designed specifically for the Oculus Rift,” writes Oculus VR Inc on their latest blog post.
The Oculus Rift VR Jam, which will run from August 2nd to August 25th, is open to anyone worldwide. For those who don’t yet have an Oculus Rift, Oculus is opening ‘Playtest Hubs’ where Riftless developers can share and playtest their games. So far Oculus has announced two Playest Hubs at New York University and the University of Southern California. They will be announcing additional Playtest Hubs soon.
Oculus Rift VR Jam Prizes and Rules
Grand prize winners:
- $10,000 cash prize.
- Oculus will pay for travel and lodging for 1 member of the winning team to attend IndieCade and exhibit at event (up to $2,000).
- An invitation to visit Oculus HQ to meet the Oculus team.
- Oculus will promote the content through social channels.
- Opportunity to exhibit winning content at IndieCade 2013.
- Coupon for submission to IndieCade 2014.
- A limited edition Oculus + IndieCade VR Jam 2013 t-shirt.
2nd place winners:
- $5,000 cash prize.
- Oculus will promote the content through social channels.
- Opportunity to exhibit winning content at IndieCade 2013.
- Coupon for submission to IndieCade 2014.
- A limited edition Oculus + IndieCade VR Jam 2013 t-shirt.
3rd place winners:
- $3,000 cash prize.
- Oculus will promote the content through social channels.
- Opportunity to exhibit winning content at IndieCade 2013.
- Coupon for submission to IndieCade 2014.
- A limited edition Oculus + IndieCade VR Jam 2013 t-shirt.
Each finalist:
- $500 cash prize.
- Oculus will promote the content through social channels.
- Coupon for submission (any game) to IndieCade 2014.
- A limited edition Oculus + IndieCade VR Jam 2013 t-shirt.
Find rules and sign up for the Oculus & IndieCade VR Jam here!
