Join the Creative Challenge

Why Participate in the gm(48) GameMaker game jam?

Transform your ideas into playable games. Take part in the next gm(48) game jam on January 17. Connect with passionate GameMaker developers, master new GML techniques, and experience the thrill of creating a game while under pressure.

Understanding Game Jams

The gm(48) is a GameMaker-only game jam where developers create games using GameMaker Studio 2 within exactly 48 hours, competing for recognition in the GameMaker community and for prizes.

The Format

The gm(48) follows a simple but exciting structure:

  • Theme Reveal: A surprise theme is announced at the start
  • 48 Hours Development: Create your GameMaker game within exactly 48 hours
  • Submission: Upload your completed GameMaker game
  • Community Judging: GameMaker developers rate and provide feedback
The Community

The gm(48) brings together GameMaker creators:

  • GML Programmers: Writing efficient GameMaker code
  • Pixel Artists: Creating stunning 2D sprites and animations
  • Game Designers: Crafting engaging gameplay mechanics
  • Sound Designers: Composing chiptunes and sound effects
From Humble Beginnings to Global Movement
The evolution of game jams

Game jams originated in the early 2000s as small, informal gatherings of game developers. Today, they're held worldwide with events like Ludum Dare, Global Game Jam, and IndieCade attracting thousands of participants.

What started as a way to experiment with new ideas has become a cornerstone of the indie game development community, launching careers and creating beloved games.

Why Participating Is Worth It

Whether you're a seasoned GameMaker developer or just starting out, the gm(48) offers unique benefits that traditional development can't match.

Experiment & Innovate

Limited time forces quick decisions and creative solutions you might never discover otherwise.

Build Community

Meet fellow developers, designers, and enthusiasts who share your passion for game creation.

Learn New Skills

Collaborate with diverse teams and learn from different backgrounds and skill sets.

Complete Projects

Finish a game in just days - experience the full development cycle from idea to playable game.

Showcase Your Work

Get your game played by hundreds of participants and receive valuable feedback.

Pure Fun

Experience the joy of creating something awesome in a supportive, energetic environment.

The Reality Check
Being honest about the challenges

Game jams aren't always easy. The time constraints can be stressful, you might need to work long hours, and you'll face technical challenges. Working in shared spaces means dealing with distractions and the energy of other teams.

But here's the thing: These challenges are exactly what make game jams so rewarding. You'll surprise yourself with what you can accomplish under pressure, and the supportive community makes every obstacle manageable.

What Participants Think

Read what former participants have to say about the gm(48) game jam

48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

I had a great time on this game jam. I found out about it the morning it started by a post on /r/gamemaker, so I'd like to thank the organisers for putting the word out there.

5
48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

This was my first game jam i have ever participated in, and i must say it was really fun! It's a great opportunity to learn and improve your game developing skills.

5
48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

It was an unique programming experience. It was tiring, but at the end, I was glad that I made game in just 2 days :). I recommend this jam for everyone - from beginners to experts.

5
48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

This project was a lot of fun. I streamed a good majority of my development and had a lot of fun doing so. The drive and push it gives you to make a full, complete project is very valuable.

5
48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

What a great way to put my skills to the test, meet tons of like-minded people, and have fun all at the same time! This was my first time participating in a game jam, and I'm absolutely blown away by the amazing community surrounding this event! I will definitely be doing this again!

5
48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

Loved the jam. Teaming up and making something great in 48 hours (with some sleep) was a great experience. If you make stuff in Game Maker, this is the jam for you.

5
48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

No matter your skill level with gamemaker, gm48 is great. It was my first game jam ever and I don't regret it at all, the feeling of community, simple website and rules, all lead to a wonderful and inspiring experience.

5
48th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2026-01-17T00:00:00+00:00 2026-01-19T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

This platform is great for seeing what is possible in 48 hours. Making Color Pickers help point out some issues I run into when making games.

5

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before joining your first game jam

Not at all! Game jams welcome developers of all skill levels. Many participants are beginners, and the community is very supportive. It's actually one of the best ways to learn game development.

You can participate solo or find teammates during the jam. Many participants form teams at the start of the event, and solo development is also common and encouraged.

For the gm(48), you must use GameMaker Studio 2 or GameMaker Studio. This is a GameMaker-only jam, so other engines like Unity, Godot, or Construct are not allowed. You can use any additional tools for art, sound, or other assets.

The gm(48) lasts exactly 48 hours, but you can participate as much or as little as your schedule allows. Even a few hours can result in a fun, playable GameMaker game.

That's perfectly fine! The goal is learning and having fun. Many participants submit incomplete games, and you'll still gain valuable experience and feedback.

No, game jams require starting fresh. All code, art, and design must be created during the jam period (though you can use existing tools, libraries, and assets).

Games are typically rated by fellow participants on criteria like creativity, fun factor, theme adherence, and overall quality. It's more about feedback than competition.

You get to play and rate other participants' games, receive feedback on yours, and many developers continue working on their jam games to release them commercially.

From Idea to Game in 48 Hours

Join thousands of GameMaker developers who have discovered the joy of game jams.

No experience? No problem. GameMaker developers of all skill levels and backgrounds use the gm(48) game jam to create games, learn new skills, and connect with the community.

Ready to start your game development journey? Create an account and join the next gm(48) game jam!