Empowering the Next Generation of Game Developers: The Oregon Game Project Challenge

In the heart of Monmouth, Oregon, Western Oregon University has become a hub for nurturing the dreams and talents of aspiring video game developers. For the past 17 years, the university has proudly hosted the Oregon Game Project Challenge (OGPC), a captivating competition that invites middle and high school students to showcase their creativity, technical prowess, and collaborative skills in the realm of video game development.

Unlocking the Potential of Young Minds

The Oregon Game Project Challenge is more than just a competition; it's a transformative experience that empowers students to explore their passions, hone their skills, and forge lasting connections within the tech industry. Each year, the event announces a unique theme, challenging teams to design and develop a video game that captures the essence of that theme. From coding and art creation to storytelling and gameplay design, students immerse themselves in every aspect of the game development process, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

Fostering Collaboration and Creativity

The OGPC competition is a testament to the power of teamwork and innovation. Teams of 2 to 7 members, guided by adult coaches, work tirelessly over multiple months to bring their game concepts to life. This collaborative approach not only hones their technical skills but also cultivates essential soft skills, such as project management, communication, and problem-solving. As the students present their projects to judges, event attendees, and industry professionals, they have the opportunity to showcase their talents, receive valuable feedback, and forge connections that could shape their future careers.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Tech Leaders

The OGPC competition is more than just a showcase of student talent; it's a platform for inspiring the next generation of tech leaders. By providing a nurturing environment where students can explore their passions and develop their skills, the event aims to ignite a lifelong love for game development and technology. The diverse student body, which includes individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners, reflects the inclusive nature of the competition, ensuring that everyone has a chance to shine.

A Collaborative Effort Fueled by Passion

The Oregon Game Project Challenge is the result of a collaborative effort between Western Oregon University and the non-profit arm of the Technology Association of Oregon. Since 2017, Western has proudly hosted the competition, and the university is set to continue this tradition in the years to come. "OGPC seeks to inspire students to develop various skills based on their passion for making video games," shares Andrew Scholer, the director of OGPC. "Students write code, create art and music, craft a story, and design gameplay. They learn project management and teamwork as they collaborate over multiple months to deliver a project. And they practice their soft skills as they present their project to judges and other students."

A Thriving Community of Game Developers

The OGPC competition has become a beacon of hope for aspiring game developers in Oregon and beyond. In this past May alone, 60 teams (comprising 285 students) from over 30 schools in Oregon and southern Washington participated in the event, showcasing the growing interest and enthusiasm for the field. As the competition continues to evolve and expand, it promises to nurture a thriving community of game developers, empowering the next generation to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.