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Hong Kong

City of Dreams and Fears Game Jam
 7-9 November 2025

This Game Jam invites YOU to create experiences inspired by the environment around us and present a future and futuristic imaginations of Hong Kong, as well as its urban space, icons, and history. As part of the jam, you will learn more about the science fiction genre and urban spaces in Hong Kong, inspiring your understanding of and aspiration for the metropolis.

Regardless of your experience level - from industry veterans to complete beginners - you'll receive comprehensive support throughout the process. This includes team formation, preparatory Input Session events, and guidance from three seasoned mentors representing France, Germany, and Hong Kong.

Game Jam SQ

About the Project

We are living in a time of global upheaval and transformation, a reality that is especially felt in Hong Kong. In this context, science fiction emerges as a powerful medium for reflection and exploration. Science fiction presents worlds that are radically different from our everyday reality, yet these narratives cognitively mirror our world, offering us an alternative perspective on reality. Gaming also plays a significant role in this landscape. Its interactive and participatory nature allows us not only to consume content but also to actively engage with the new worlds presented in games.

The Goethe-Institut Hongkong and the French Consulate of Hong Kong are excited to partner with the School of Creative Media, the City University of Hong Kong for the project “City of Dreams and Fears”, bringing together German, French, and Hong Kong game designers for a two-day Game Jam. They'll create game prototypes exploring cities as shared spaces and addressing ecological and social urban challenges, with results displayed in an exhibition.

The project is co-funded by the Franco-German Cultural Fund.

When?

November 7th (18:00) - 9th (16:00) HKT

Where?

School of Creative Media, the City University of Hong Kong

Who?

Solo developers, seasonsed pros, hobbyists, artists, and anyone else curious about game mechanics and storytelling

Why join the Game Jam?

  • Learn from mentors with international expertise in storytelling, design, and game development
  • Build a game prototype that explores science fiction themes and urban imagination
  • Connect with a network of creatives, designers, and dreamers
  • Present your game in an exhibition at the Goethe-Institut Hongkong
  • Receive an official participation certificate

Requirements

We welcome anyone and everyone – no matter your background, skills, or experience level! All you need is:

  • To be at least 18 years old
  • Willingness and commitment to participate and contribute to your team
  • Respect the Code of Conduct & Content Policy
  • Openness to working together with your teammates and mentor to continue building your prototype after the Game Jam
  • Participation in the closing presentation this December to share your team’s work with the public

Mentors

Schedule

● September 30th 14:00 HKT – Application Deadline

● Mid-October – Selection Announcement via email

● October 24th – November 5th – Learning Sessions

A series of events on Science Fiction and Urban Space to help participants find inspiration and foster their creativity. Activities include film screenings, conferences, workshops, and city tours. Full details will be published later on this site. Please note that participation in the Learning Sessions, while highly recommended, is optional and not a requirement for joining the Game Jam.

● November 7th – 9th – Game Jam

The Game Jam will kick off on Friday, November 7th at 18:00. We will announce topics, go over Game Jam details, and help form teams.

● After Game Jam – Development Period

At the end of the Game Jam, mentors will give you suggestions and directions for further developing the prototype. Mentors will also provide guidance and feedback during the development period online.

● December – Presentation at Goethe-Institut Hongkong

Your game will be presented to the public! An exhibition showcasing all the prototypes will be held at the library of the Goethe-Institut Hongkong.

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