SETU hosted 41 staff, students, and alumni for the 2026 Global Game Jam, marking the University’s 12th year participating in the international event.
SETU students from the Bachelor of Science in Computing in Interactive Digital Art and Design (IDAD) and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Games Development collaborated in teams to create original games in just 48 hours, inspired by this year’s theme, 'Mask'. Twelve games were developed over the weekend, highlighting the talent, collaboration, and energy of the university community.
The weekend started on Friday afternoon with icebreaker activities, followed by the revealing of the event's theme. Reflecting on the event’s success, Nigel Whyte, Head of the Department of Computing at SETU, commented:
“SETU's participation in this year's Global Game Jam highlighted the energy, collaboration, and skill of our IDAD and Computer Games Development students which, as always, produced work to the very highest of standards.”
Nigel Whyte Head of the Department of Computing, SETU.
Creativity and collaboration
The Global Game Jam is a worldwide event that challenges participants to create a game from scratch in just 48 hours. SETU students embraced this challenge, blending programming, design, storytelling, and artistic expression to bring their unique mask-themed games to life. The weekend provided an invaluable experience in teamwork and rapid problem-solving, key skills for aspiring game developers.
A hub for talent
SETU’s participation in the Global Game Jam highlights the University’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in game development, software development, programming, and digital art and design. The event not only allowed students to push their technical and artistic skills but also provided an opportunity to network with fellow students and graduates, test new ideas, and gain industry-relevant experience.
"The Global Game Jam allows students and alumni to have the 'bestest' fun while learning, networking, and making games all in one super weekend”
Peter Lowe, SETU lecturer.
As SETU continues to establish itself as a hub for digital art, programming, and development talent in Ireland, events like the Global Game Jam offer students a platform to experiment, learn, and showcase their abilities on a global scale. As part of the event, 12 teams were formed and 12 games were produced in 48 hrs. The games can be seen on the Global Game Jam website here.
