Global Game Jam 2026
GLOBAL GAM JAM 2026
at the University campus of Bari, Department of Computer Science from January 30th to February 1st 2026.
The collective Games Invaders, in collaboration with the Department of Computer Science (DiB) of the University of Bari “A. Moro”, organizes in Bari from January 30th to February 1st 2026 the local stage of the hackathon Global Game Jam (GGJ), where enthusiasts of all genres compete for 48 hours non-stop in the creation of video games and interactive experiences in a framework of collaboration and inclusion. Participation is free and does not require specific prerequisites (other than being of legal age): all that is needed is creativity, interest and a desire to collaborate, after registering online as for security and organizational reasons places are limited.
The GGJ is an annual event (the first edition dates back to 2009) that takes place simultaneously worldwide in the various locations that are accredited by the non-profit organization that manages it: in each location the GGJ takes place uninterrupted for 48 hours in every time zone, officially starting at 5:00 PM on the opening day (Friday) and ending at 5:00 PM on the third day (Sunday).
During the 48 frenetic hours, enthusiasts with the most diverse backgrounds but united by a passion for interactivity such as game designers, software developers, makers, artists, musicians and simple gamers, will collaborate to create a working game (not necessarily electronic) inspired by a common theme that is revealed shortly before the start of the hackathon.
THE EDITION IN NUMBERS
The 2025 Bari edition saw more than a hundred participants over the three days, of which approximately 30 chose to collaborate only online or as simple observers. The final day saw the creation of 19 games, including three board games, a truly remarkable and unexpected result.
Below is the video summarizing the 2025 edition:
SPONSORS AND COLLABORATIONS
Like last year, also in 2026 the Department of Computer Science of the University of Bari “A. Moro” (c/o University Campus) will make available its spaces and the resources necessary to have a safe, comfortable GGJ inspired by respect and coexistence.
The Collaborators who with their support will ensure the presence of gadgets and posters, together with snacks and drinks with which to support the commitment of the participants during the three days are:
The Partners who will help in the organization and management of the GGJ in Bari are:
University of Bari “A. Moro”
Crossroads of the Worlds- Social promotion association
Grafite - School of Comics, Drawing and Illustration
Global Shapers Bari
WHO WE ARE
Games Invaders is a collective made up of enthusiasts, academics, and experts in the video game and multimedia sector who aim to promote gaming culture and technological innovation in Puglia. The founders of the collective are: Fabrizio Balducci, Pierpaolo Basile, Teresa Romano, Lucia Siciliani, and Marco Testini.
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