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

47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+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
47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

Joining gm(48) has been a great experience.

I think Simon Milfred and I make a robust team and we have so much fun.

Will do it again!

5
47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

This jam is a blast. It's a lot of fun to see your finished game, and you learn a lot about the development process in the meantime!

5
47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

Doing everything for this game was a fun experience. It definitely took a lot out of me towards the end, especially being my first real time in coding in awhile. Definitely was an amazing learning experience and a fun little game was made!

5
47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

The GM48 is the perfect way for me to rekindle my love for game making. Every time I participate I can see a gradual improvement in my abilities and quality of my games.

5
47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

GM48's game jams are pretty challenging, as there are a lot of awesome and talented artists, designers and coders who participate in them.

5
47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

GM48 is an inspiring and inclusive event fit for beginners and veterans alike. There's no better place for GameMaker devs to really come together as a community and show off what they've got.

5
47th gm(48) The gm(48) is a community event for GameMaker developers of all ages and abilities 2024-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00+00:00 gm48.net https://gm48.net YoYo Games

I've participated in 3 gm48 challenges so far, and everytime I continue to be impressed. My partner Ian is a wizard in GameMaker and I love seeing him make our creation's come to life! 10/10 will continue to participate every quarter.

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!