From January 30 to February 1, Novska will host the seventh edition of the Global Game Jam, the Croatian version of the world competition in video game development. The event organizer, the Entrepreneurial Incubator PISMO powered by A1, invites all game developers, from beginners to professionals, to take on the challenge, test their skills, and compete for valuable prizes provided by A1 Hrvatska, the gaming equipment brand White Shark, the media house VIDI, and the Incubator PISMO.
The competition, as in previous years, is divided into two categories – for adults and high school students. A rich prize pool has been prepared, which includes cash prizes and gaming equipment. For adults, the prizes are provided by the incubator PISMO, A1 Hrvatska, and the VIDI media house. The winning team will win 1,750 euros, an A1 gift package, and six months of subscription to VIDI content. Second place brings 700 euros, an A1 gift package, and six months of subscription to VIDI content, while third place secures 500 euros, an A1 gift package, and six months of subscription to VIDI content.
“Global Game Jam has built a position over the years as a place where creativity, technology, and responsibility in the digital world meet. That is why at A1 Hrvatska we see this initiative as a natural continuation of our long-term investment in digital skills, innovation, and security. By supporting young talents in video game development, we want to encourage them to think boldly, work as a team, and create content that has a positive impact on the community in which it arises. Collaborating with the PISMO incubator allows us to be part of that process from the very beginning, while through projects like the A1 Adria League and the #BoljiOnline platform, we continuously contribute to the development of a safe and responsible digital space,” said Valentina Leventić, senior specialist for marketing communications at A1 Hrvatska.
For high school teams prizes have been prepared that include White Shark gaming products for each team member, along with six months of subscription to VIDI content. In addition, special awards will be given for the most creative teams in the categories of graphics, gameplay, and game presentation, and the awarded teams will also win sweet packages.
“Global Game Jam in Novska is an extremely important event for the development of the gaming community and young talents. Such initiatives provide an opportunity for creatives and developers to showcase their knowledge, ideas, and innovation in an encouraging environment. White Shark, together with the brands SBOX and Baracuda, has proudly supported this project for many years. As a company that continuously develops new brands and products, we believe that investing in youth and the gaming industry is crucial for the long-term development of technology in Croatia. We are particularly pleased to participate by rewarding young participants of this event, as they represent the future of the gaming industry. We wish all participants much success, creativity, and courage in exploring new ideas. Take this opportunity, learn, create, and push boundaries.”, added Stjepan Šmit, owner of the White Shark brand.
“Thank you to the organizers for this already legendary annual gathering and challenge for the young hopes of game development! Your passion is felt in every detail of the organization, and Novska becomes the heart of the gaming community in Croatia every year. This is a masterclass in organization! We are proud of you!”, concluded Tomislav Kotnik, founder and editor-in-chief of the tech media house VIDI.
Although the number of registered participants has exceeded 100, registrations are still open until January 27 through the Global Game Jam platform. Participants need to select GGJ26 PISMO Novska, and for additional information and communication with the organizers, they can use the Discord server. The organizers provide three meals a day, auxiliary beds, and a chill zone to ensure all participants have the best experience.
