03-03-2026
Francisco de Vitoria University (UFV) hosted its ninth edition as the official venue for the Global Game Jam, one of the largest international video game development events. On this occasion, 20 original video games were developed in just 48 hours, with 120 participants.
The 2026 edition was held simultaneously at venues around the world. On the UFV campus, students and external developers worked intensively to create proposals that addressed this year’s common theme: the “mask.”
Students participating in the Global Game Jam 2026
Over the weekend, the teams designed and programmed video games from scratch. The theme inspired a variety of approaches, combining very different gameplay mechanics, narratives, and visual styles. The experience fostered teamwork, creativity, and real-time problem-solving.
The participants were supported by faculty members from the Bachelor's Degree Video Game Design and Storytelling** at UFV, who provided technical and creative guidance throughout the development process.
A jury evaluated the finalists and awarded prizes in various categories. The video game “Umbra: A Mask Maker’s Tale” was recognized for its storytelling, while “C4SE FL1GTH: 1226” stood out for its artistic merit.
In the creativity category, the award went to “Hear Me Out”; according to the jury, the funniest entry was “Lockdown Shopping”. Finally, “I.R.S.: Intergalactic Relocation Services” received the award for the entry with the greatest capacity to provoke reflection and make an impact.
Students participating in the Global Game Jam 2026
According to Professor Gabriel Peñas, the event’s organizer, the Global Game Jam “has once again demonstrated the participants’ dedication, commitment, and talent.” This experience has strengthened the link between university education and the real-world dynamics of the professional sector.
With this edition, the UFV has solidified its role as an academic platform for developing talent in the video game industry. Intensive hands-on training, collaboration among professionals from diverse backgrounds, and the international reach of the projects have been key elements of the event.
