Every semester, Taylor University hosts a unique event that unites individuals with diverse talents through their shared passion for video games. Over the course of three intense days, participants are challenged to collaborate and produce an original game in less than 24 hours. This semester, from April 24th to 26th, twenty-three students formed ten teams to compete in this exhilarating competition. The term "game jam" refers to gatherings where creators aim to design a game within a limited timeframe, typically ranging from one day to a week.

Organized by Jon Denning, Chair of the Computer Science & Engineering Department, this event encourages participation from all backgrounds, regardless of major or experience level. Denning not only selects the dates but also provides refreshments and technical support to assist students with their coding challenges. For those studying computer science and engineering, participating in GameJam contributes toward their required event credits. Riana Schultz, a sophomore majoring in Computer Science-Digital Media/Systems, described her experience working on a team that secured third place last fall. She expressed excitement about trying something new and learning along the way.

The history of GameJam at Taylor University dates back to 2014 when students approached Denning with the idea of hosting a coding contest. Since then, it has become a staple activity each semester. In 2023, Denning introduced the Taylorcade, an arcade machine designed specifically to allow students access to past GameJam creations. This year’s winners included Jacob Stetka with his first-place game Ghlobot Shift, Noah Wills taking second place with Something Fishy, and Dawson Ochs and Caleb Ranzau earning third place with Multidimensional Prom Night. Over time, the quality of games has improved as participants refine their skills and strategies through repeated participation.

Creative endeavors like Taylor University's GameJam foster collaboration among students from various disciplines, promoting innovation and skill development. By providing a platform for experimentation and teamwork, these events inspire young minds to push boundaries and achieve remarkable results. Such initiatives highlight the importance of cross-disciplinary cooperation in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape.