48 hours, 43 Games: Saskatoon Game Jam 2026 Delivers

Over 150 people filled the 3rd Floor Spinks Computer Labs at the University of Saskatchewan with one goal: build a game in 48 hours. The Saskatoon Game Jam ran from January 30 to February 1, drawing 174 registered participants online and 150 in person. By Sunday evening, 43 games had been submitted, ranging from solo passion projects to team efforts built over pizza and late nights.

The theme this year was 🎭 MASK 🎭, revealed at Friday night's kickoff. Participants had until 5 PM Sunday to create anything inspired by it, working solo or in teams.

The event was free for students, and the USask Computer Science department supplied lab computers and wifi, making it accessible to anyone with an idea. No prior experience was required as the jam welcomes a mix of working developers and first-time creators alike. Saturday included a guest presentation by Kurtis Wiebe on narrative and game design, and both days featured pizza lunches. The weekend closed with an awards ceremony and an open showcase where friends and family could play through all 43 submitted games.

The jam was organized by Michael Long of Foolish Mortals Games and SaskInteractive, with venue support from Greg Oster, Jason Bowey, and the USask Computer Science department. Sponsors included CreativeSask, the Recording Arts Institute of Saskatoon, Noodlecake Studios, Dragons Den Games, and Dragonfly Games.

The event also caught the attention of local media. Radio-Canada's Le Téléjournal Saskatchewan sent a crew to cover the jam, and the resulting segment offers a great look at the energy and creativity on display over the weekend. It's worth a watch and available in French at https://ici.radio-canada.ca/tele/le-telejournal-saskatchewan/site/segments/reportage/2287880/48h-pour-creer-un-jeu-video 

Check out all the games here!  itch.io/jam/saskatoon-game-jam-jan-30-2026/entries