What a summer it’s been for game development in the Okanagan! The Okanagan Game Developers Association (OGDA) recently wrapped up its highly anticipated Summer Game Jam, and the energy, innovation, and sheer talent on display were nothing short of inspiring. We’re still buzzing from the incredible projects that emerged from our local dev scene.
A massive thank you is in order to our incredible partners at the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO) for generously sponsoring the venue space for this year’s jam. Their support is invaluable in fostering a thriving environment for local talent and giving our developers a fantastic space to collaborate and create. Community partnerships like these are the bedrock of a successful game development ecosystem.
This year's theme was "The Dog Days of Summer."
Okanagan: A Growing Hub for Game Development
The Okanagan Valley might be known for its stunning landscapes and world-class wineries, but it’s quickly becoming recognized as a vibrant and unique hub for the gaming industry in Canada. What makes our region special?
- A Collaborative Spirit: Unlike larger, more competitive markets, the Okanagan scene is characterized by a strong sense of community. Developers here are eager to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and support each other’s growth.
- Lifestyle & Talent Retention: The incredible quality of life here attracts and retains talented individuals, from seasoned industry veterans to fresh university graduates. This creates a diverse pool of skills and perspectives.
- Emerging Studios & Indies: We’re seeing a fantastic rise of independent developers and burgeoning studios setting up shop, pushing creative boundaries and contributing to a dynamic local economy.
These factors make the Okanagan not just a beautiful place to live, but a fantastic place to make games.
OGDA: Keeping the Momentum Going
At the OGDA, we’re committed to nurturing this growing industry. The Summer Game Jam is just one of the many ways we connect, educate, and empower our members. Beyond the adrenaline of the jam, we host a variety of regular events designed to foster connection and skill development:
- Weekly Meetups: Our regular gatherings are perfect for networking, sharing ideas, and just hanging out with fellow game enthusiasts. Keep an eye on our social media for details!
- Workshops & Panels: From our recent Ideation Workshop to upcoming sessions on specific tools and techniques, we provide opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.
- Game Nights: Sometimes, you just need to play games! These casual events are a great way to unwind and enjoy the medium we all love.
We encourage everyone interested in game development—whether you’re a seasoned pro, a student, or just curious—to get involved. Check out our website for our full event schedule!
The Challenge & Reward of the Game Jam
Running a game jam is always an exciting challenge! From coordinating schedules and promoting the event to ensuring everyone has the resources they need, it’s a monumental effort. But the payoff? Seeing the incredible games that are born from a weekend of intense creativity and collaboration makes every moment worthwhile. It’s a testament to the passion and dedication of our community.
Game jams push boundaries, force rapid prototyping, and often lead to unexpected innovations. They’re an invaluable experience for developers of all skill levels, offering a crash course in teamwork, problem-solving, and tight deadlines.
Look Ahead: Global Game Jam 2026!
While we’re still basking in the glow of our summer jam, our sights are already set on the horizon! We’re thrilled to announce that the Global Game Jam will be returning to the Okanagan in January 2026! Mark your calendars and start dreaming up those amazing concepts. We’ll share more details closer to the date, but expect another unforgettable weekend of game creation.