CUTSCENE EDITION FAQ

IMPORTANT NOTE: (Camera) Interaction for Verification Only: Include a minimal real-time camera control, such as limited panning or rotation using the mouse or arrow keys. This interaction is purely for confirming real-time rendering and does not need to be part of the cutscene’s main narrative or storytelling. It should be subtle and non-intrusive to the cinematic experience. Any other real-time interaction is also acceptable (just mention it in your submission description). 

Question: Can we have a start menu?
Yes, you may include a simple start or main menu with a start button to trigger the cutscene and an optional credits screen. However, no additional interactive elements should be included beyond starting the cinematic and displaying credits.

Question: Does my cutscene need to be interactive?
No. The cutscene should be cinematic and should not include interactive elements like dialog choices or player actions. Only minimal camera control (like panning or rotation) is required for verifying real-time rendering.

Question: Can I use either 2D or 3D for my cutscene?
Yes! Both 2D and 3D cutscenes are welcome. You can use any visual style you like, as long as it’s created in a game engine and meets the requirements.

Question: What does “real-time rendering” mean?
Real-time rendering means that your cutscene is created and rendered directly in the game engine (like Unity, Unreal, or Godot) and isn’t a pre-rendered video file.

Question: Why is minimal camera control required?
Minimal camera control (e.g., panning or rotation with the mouse or arrow keys) is required to confirm that your cutscene is rendered in real time. This interaction is just for verification and should be subtle.

Question: What format should my submission be in?
Submit a playable build format (e.g., .exe for Windows) that runs the cutscene directly, just like a regular game build from your engine of choice. The submission should only contain the cinematic cutscene, but you can include a simple main menu to start the cutscene and an optional credits screen if you’d like. Optionally, you can also include a YouTube/Vimeo link to share your work more easily.

Question: Can I work in a team?
Yes! Teams are allowed. Keep in mind that prizes are awarded to the team as a whole, not to individual members.

Question: What assets can I use?
You may use any assets for which you have the proper license. Original assets are encouraged, but pre-made assets from libraries are allowed if properly credited. Purchased assets from marketplaces or asset stores are also permitted, as long as you own the necessary rights.

Question: Can I use music and sound effects?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are royalty-free or properly licensed and credited in your cutscene if you didn’t create them yourself.

Question: What’s the theme?
It will be revealed when the jam starts!

Question: Can I submit an existing project?
No, all work must be created within the jam period.

Question: Can I edit my submission after the deadline?
No, so make sure to submit early to avoid last-minute issues.

Question: Are AI tools allowed?
You may use AI tools to assist with coding and asset creation (such as art, music, or sound effects). However, the majority of the code must be your own work, and any AI-generated content should be used thoughtfully and ethically. If you use AI-generated assets, make sure they respect copyright rules and do not resemble or replicate existing copyrighted content.

Question: What about music, fonts, and assets?
You can use royalty-free music and audio assets you own, with proper credits and licenses. Make sure all assets adhere to copyright and licensing rules. You may use assets you already own, such as those from the Unity Asset Store or Unreal Marketplace. Ensure that all assets are properly licensed and that you have permission to use them. Avoid infringing on copyrights or trademarks. Assets bought in the stores usually (99.9%) have the correct license to use them in our jam.

Question: How many ratings do I need to be eligible for prizes?
Each cutscene needs at least 10 ratings to qualify for prizes. Watching and rating other cutscene will help increase your cutscene's visibility.

Question: Who can participate?
Anyone! All experience levels are welcome, and you can work solo or in a team (recommended max 4 members).

Question: How does the judging work?
In addition to community ratings, a jury panel will review cutscenes to award their favorite entries.

Question: Is there a Discord I can join? 
Yes, click here to join. There is also an FAQ channel there.