MUMBAI: SIGGRAPH has launched GameJam!, a new international videogame competition to be held at SIGGRAPH 2009, the 36th International Conference and Exhibition on Computer Graphics and Interactive Techniques.

Teams of three people will compete for 24-consecutive hours to create, design, and implement their best effort at a comprehensive videogame in the allotted timeframe. Each team must contain at least one programmer, artist, and sound designer. Individuals and teams are welcome to apply. Contestants will be provided with a pre-designated theme as well as the necessary tools and software to complete the challenge. All work must take place on site within the 24-hour period.

"SIGGRAPH’s expanded focus into the videogame arena offers a great opportunity for a competition like GameJam! to bring some experimental gameplay into the mix," stated  SIGGRAPH 2009 director Interactive Play Carnegie Mellon University Drew Davidson . "We encourage videogame developers at all levels from around the globe to submit applications. Our goal is to make GameJam! one of the most dynamic, international videogame competitions in the world."

Videogames will be judged by a panel of industry experts with prizes awarded in several categories including Best Game Play, Best Sound Design, Best Appearance, Best of Show, Crowd Favorite and Epic Failure. GameJam! will be produced in conjunction with The Sandbox, an area at SIGGRAPH 2009 focused specifically on the gaming industry.

Those wishing to submit applications to participate in GameJam! can do so on the SIGGRAPH 2009 web site. There is a $10 application fee per applicant.