Game Gauntlet SIM Jam 2026: Worldwide Free Simulation-Game Contest, $1,500 Prizes, 4 November Deadline
Game Gauntlet's SIM Jam is an online, worldwide game-creation challenge with US$1,500 in cash prizes. The theme is simulation: entrants make a system-based playable game, whether a serious economic simulation, survival colony, experimental management game or imaginative interactive world. The jam began on 23 September 2026 and submissions close on 4 November 2026 at 2:00 p.m. US Eastern time (19:00 UTC). Individuals and teams of up to five people may enter, with no travel required.
Build a genuine simulation during the jam
A qualifying game should simulate a system through meaningful player decisions, rather than just display an art slideshow. Creators may use Unity, Unreal, Godot, GameMaker or custom technology. The core design, code and original content must be made during the September 23–November 4 jam period; pre-existing personal libraries and licensed asset packs may be used with clear credit, but simply reskinning an old project is not accepted. Entrants retain the intellectual-property rights in their games.
Technical submission checklist
Submit a playable Windows executable or a browser-based WebGL build through the jam's official itch.io page. Include an English-language title and description, controls, instructions, a statement of what the game simulates, an accurate credit list, and the relevant Discord username. Everyone on a team must be identified and in the organiser's Discord. AI-generated code, artwork, sound and text are permitted when appropriately disclosed and the team holds the relevant rights. The game itself may use languages other than English.
Deadlines, judging and prizes
Entries close on 4 November at 2 p.m. Eastern; community voting follows from 5–10 November, the shortlist is expected 11 November and judge deliberations 11–13 November, with an awards stream planned for 14 November. The organiser offers US$1,500 in cash prizes, alongside feedback and showcase opportunities. Judging involves playable quality and creative interpretation of the simulation brief. Any deadline changes should be checked on the live itch.io event page before uploading.
Who operates the contest?
Game Gauntlet is organised in connection with Cosmic Forces and publishes named game-development judges and a current jam schedule, with founder Ziad Seirafi listed on its official site. The event page is hosted on itch.io rather than an unverified payment portal. Look for 'Game Gauntlet - SIM Jam' as linked from the organiser's website, read the rules on permitted assets and contest-generated materials, and do not mistake community voting for a guarantee of a prize.
Official rules and application
Information reviewed 22 October 2026. Recheck the organiser's deadlines, fees, rights and participation rules immediately before applying.