The game development competition, held in conjunction with Tunisia Game Show 2023, was a standout event for developers of all levels, blending creativity, collaboration, and technical expertise. The competition fostered a respectful and inclusive atmosphere, where participants from across Tunisia and beyond came together to create unique and innovative games. Participants were encouraged to work as teams, share ideas, and collaborate through Discord, making the experience not only competitive but also highly community-focused.
The competition evaluated submissions across several key categories, including *Game Design*, *Fun*, *Innovation*, *Theme*, *Graphics*, *Audio*, and *Community Interaction*. Each game was judged on its originality, entertainment value, and how well it aligned with the event’s theme. The variety of categories allowed participants to showcase their strengths, whether in gameplay mechanics, design, or audio, ensuring that even the most niche talents were recognized.
A total prize pool of $600, sponsored by *Digi Game StartUp Studio*, was awarded to the top three games, with each receiving $200. The first-place winner took home a cash prize, while the second and third places were given marketing budgets to help publish their games, provided they agreed to release them. The winners were announced on April 15, 2023, at the Tunisia Game Show, one of the country’s largest gaming events. Even those unable to attend were able to share in the excitement, as the organizers provided live updates, photos, and videos of the event.
The event’s success was further supported by industry leaders such as *Herodot Studio* and *Vastlight*, who hosted a series of workshops leading up to the competition. These workshops covered a wide range of topics, from Unity development and 2D illustration to 3D terrain design, helping participants hone their skills and bring their game ideas to life. The workshops, paired with the collaborative spirit of the event, ensured that even newcomers had the tools they needed to succeed.
Overall, the competition was a tremendous success, highlighting the talent and innovation within Tunisia’s gaming community. The event not only gave participants the opportunity to win prizes but also helped foster connections within the industry, inspiring future collaborations and creative projects. The partnership between *Digi Game StartUp Studio*, *Herodot Studio*, and *Vastlight* ensured that this was not just a one-time competition, but a stepping stone for many budding developers looking to turn their creative concepts into successful commercial ventures.