Event Highlights and Key Information
Just Play: A Game Jam for Justice, set to spotlight at SXSW 2024, is a notable event in the gaming calendar. Created by Cinereach and Anima Interactive, this initiative aims to showcase video games developed on themes of systemic injustice. The awards ceremony, scheduled for March 9, 2024, at 7:30pm CT, promises an engaging experience for attendees and remote viewers alike. Hosting the evening is Akeem Lawanson, known for his work with IGN, alongside a musical performance by the virtual band OFK from Los Angeles. The ceremony will be accessible for live viewing on Twitch, catering to a global audience.
Participation and Innovation
The game jam earlier this year invited indie developers worldwide to craft games that delve into themes of injustice, using storytelling, innovative gameplay, and new mechanics to challenge and inspire. The contest attracted a variety of submissions across themes like health, technology, community, ecology, economy, and post-colonial studies. Esteemed jurors from industry giants such as ustwo games, Xbox, and Netflix Games evaluated the entries.
Finalists and Exhibition
The finalists of the competition will also be featured at the SXSW Creative Industries Expo, including notable entries like “Are you Listening?” by Eloise Best, “Crossing Lines” by Other Path, and “Pip Pepper Park Planner” by Pip Squad, among others. This selection underscores the diverse approaches to integrating justice themes within video games.
A Movement Beyond the Game Jam
The Just Play initiative seeks to build a community around games that foster cultural and social change. This year’s event marks the beginning of an ongoing effort to support game development with a focus on social impact. The initiative plans to expand its reach and programming following SXSW.
Opportunities for Engagement
From March 10-13, 2024, the SXSW Creative Industries Expo will offer attendees the chance to demo the winning and finalist games, furthering discussions on gaming’s role in societal impact.
Support and Sponsorship
The event is backed by sponsors such as Premack Rogers, Dreamspace, and METATAILOR, and enjoys the support of community partners including IGDA, IGDA Foundation, Latinx in Gaming, Black in Gaming Foundation, and Global Game Jam. This collaborative effort highlights the gaming community’s commitment to exploring significant themes through interactive media.
