The competition, hosted and run by Abertay University, offers student game developers the opportunity to win their very own BAFTA.
The challenge to build a working game prototype in just eight weeks pulls in hundreds of entries each year. After an expert panel picks 15 teams to take part in the contest the games go on show to the public and industry experts in August. Three winning teams will be picked to compete for the BAFTA Ones to Watch Award.
Sophia George, V&A game designer in residence (and previous competition winner), said: “Dare to be Digital was a life-changing opportunity for me. Being able to work solidly on our game Tick Tock Toys and then show it to thousands of members of the public was an incredible learning experience, and one which really helped me when it came to applying to the V&A.
“I don’t think it’s possible to learn more about entering the games industry in eight weeks than by taking part in Dare to be Digital – the challenge and the support you receive is incredible, as is the mentoring from industry professionals.
Professor Louis Natanson, who leads computer games education at Abertay University, said: “Dare to be Digital really encapsulates Abertay University’s approach to teaching games artists, audio engineers, designers and programmers. Real-life experience and direct access to industry professionals is essential if you want to enter this exciting, competitive industry.
“In eight weeks we see students absolutely transformed by Dare to be Digital. There’s no question that it’s a really tough challenge, but building a completely new game as part of a small team then showcasing it to thousands of people is a unique experience – and one that can massively help you prepare to be a professional game developer.”
All of the games from Dare to be Digital are shown at the Dare ProtoPlay festival in Dundee’s Caird Hall and City Square on 7th-10th August.
Entries can be made online at http://www.daretobedigital.com