Gay Gaming Professionals (GGP), a leading gaming organization, has introduced the Collegiate Games Competition with $90,000 prize pools.
In collaboration with Raw Thrills, the renowned arcade entertainment company, the initiative aims to showcase innovative student game projects while nurturing the future of gaming.
Announced by Gordon Bellamy, CEO of GGP and a professor at USC’s Interactive Media & Games Division, the competition will engage prestigious university game programs across the United States. This includes USC Games, USC Marshall School of Business, and DePaul’s Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media.
Participating schools will nominate two student-developed video game projects, while other competitors will craft compelling game trailers and go-to-market strategies for cash rewards.
“The great talent is everywhere, and now in this role as a professor, I’m seeing great talent every day,” Bellamy said. “This competition not only celebrates creativity but also integrates key industry pillars-game development, monetization, distribution, and player sentiment. Future industry leaders will need to master all these areas to succeed.”
Throughout the spring season, student competitors will gain real-world experience by presenting their work to industry veterans, including experts from the Ayzenberg Group.
The competition will culminate in a live-streamed awards ceremony in July, where winners will be selected based on game quality. Market strategies, and media presentations. Among the prizes is a Raw Thrills arcade machine, which adds a unique incentive for participants.
“The future of video games is all about empowering the new wave of creators, developers, and entrepreneurs pushing the industry to what’s next, NOW! That’s why Raw Thrills is so excited to support the Collegiate Games Challenge,” said Eugene Jarvis, cofounder and creative director of Raw Thrills, in a statement. “GGP’s work encouraging and developing the next generation of video game developers and business leaders has always been seen with their programs: GGP Scholars and CYSTEM. We’re thrilled to expand their work and kick off CGC.”
Since its inception in 2006, GGP has been a driving force in developing the next generation of gaming professionals. By fostering mentorships, scholarships, and competitions like the Collegiate Games Challenge, the organization ensures that tomorrow’s game developers, marketers, and business leaders have the tools and opportunities to thrive.
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