Moray Game Jam
Moray Game Jam 2026: A Weekend of Creativity in the Heart of Moray
Moray Game Jam returns from 6 to 8 March at UHI Moray, bringing together developers, artists, writers and players for a full weekend of rapid game creation and community activity. The event is widely known as the best game jam in Scotland, and this year’s edition promises to be the strongest yet. Teams have 48 hours to design and build a video game or board game based on a theme revealed at the start of the jam, creating an atmosphere that is both intense and collaborative.
What Happens Across the Weekend
The jam follows a simple structure: design, create, play. Participants form teams, respond to the theme, and work through the weekend to produce a playable concept. The format is deliberately inclusive, welcoming both newcomers and experienced developers. The focus is on creativity, experimentation and shared learning.
Alongside the main jam, the programme includes a range of workshops led by guest speakers and industry professionals. These sessions cover practical skills, creative approaches and insights into different areas of game development. They are open to anyone attending and provide an opportunity to learn directly from people working in the industry.
The Gaming Playground
The weekend concludes with the Gaming Playground, where members of the public can try every game created during the jam. This open session is a highlight of the event, giving teams the chance to see real players interact with their work and allowing visitors to vote for the People’s Choice award. It is a lively, welcoming environment that showcases the variety and imagination of the games produced.
Why Moray?
Moray has developed a reputation for creativity and digital innovation, supported by local studios, a strong educational base and a growing community of developers. UHI Moray has hosted the jam for many years, providing the facilities and support needed for a full weekend of concentrated creative work. The event has grown steadily since its early years and now attracts participants from across Scotland.
Getting Involved
Anyone interested in taking part can register a team, book workshop places or simply attend the public sessions. The jam is designed to be accessible, whether you are a student, a hobbyist, a professional developer or someone curious about how games are made. Full details, including the schedule, judges and workshop listings, are available through the event’s main site.
If you are in Moray this weekend, the jam is well worth a visit. It is a rare chance to see creativity unfold in real time and to meet the people shaping the region’s growing games community.
You can find full details about the events and the Game Jam itself over at moraygamejam.com where you can also sign up.
