This year we were honored to be engaged by the U.S Embassy in New Zealand, to work in partnership with our mutual friends at the NZGDA (New Zealand Game Developer's Association) on a unique event for the games industry.

POWER Up! is a game jam concept unlike any other. Based on the Koia Jam framework (developed by Xequals in 2022) POWER Up! is a game jam that is non-competitive and focused entirely on stimulating creativity, community, amazing games and new friendships.

The jam was designed exclusively this year to foster connection and collaboration between women in USA and NZ - based on the US Federal Government's 'POWER!' initiative to support the development of opportunities for women in technical industries like gaming where they are under represented.

To help spread the word about the Koia Jam format , why it's different, and how it works, we have attached our PDF info pack to this blog so anyone can learn more about it and consider if they may want to join us in future year's events. This info pack also covers how we focused this year's implementation of the event as POWER Up! for women in USA and NZ.

New Zealand and America are capable of amazing things when they collaborate together, especially on creative projects. Our film, music, arts and entertainment industries have countless examples of cross-cultural exchange and creative partnerships that enrich both countries. Here's a fun little video we through together one afternoon to share that message.

The jam event also included a series of webinars in the build up to the jam weekend with games professionals that did deep dives into different aspects of game design. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about game design, please feel free to check them out as a resource! POWER Up! Webinars

To support the professional development of some of the jammers were were fresh, or entirely new to the game design sector (with POWER Up! representing their first ever attempt at making a game, we compiled a list of free game design resources from across the internet. These game design tutorials, knowledge archives, youtube videos and step by step guides are a work in progress that we will keep adding to. The document is also available for anyone in the public to suggest an addition to, so that we can continue curating this list as a valuable resource. POWER Up! Game Design Resources List

The proof however is always in the pudding. And we are thrilled to announce that POWER Up! has been a HUGE success. We exceeded our registration target, built extensive new connections across New Zealand and America's gaming industries, formed a partnership with Global Game Jam, the world's largest game jam event, and strengthened ties with a wide range of groups in NZ and USA that are focused on empowering positive outcomes for women.

Most critically, the jammers themselves had a good time, were mind-blowingly creative, focused, and productive in developing awesome, unique new gaming titles.

At least 8 teams of women between NZ and USA collaborated over a weekend to produce the games you can play here: POWER Up! Game Jam Games

From the charming Peka Peka Learns to Fly where you play as a bat on an adventure, to this is a small dream, a game boy emulation inspired retro game that delves deep into the imagination, or Seed Race where you solve puzzles on a mission to preserve biodiversity and fight climate change, every game submitted is a total and utter gem. We highly encourage everyone reading this, even if you're not a gamer, to go and give them a whirl. You might discover something you really love.

The theme for this year also provoked a lot of great ideas that rose to fit the challenge. You can read the full synopsis and announcement here. POWER Up! Theme

We are giving a comprehensive presentation about POWER Up! including a showreel of the game jam process and gameplay footage during this years New Zealand Game Developers Conference. If you're coming along we'd love to see you there and join us for the presentation!

Overall, we are delighted with how positive and smooth the whole experience has been. With only 2 months for Xequals to design, plan, and execute the whole event - including its marketing, website design, brand, event logistics, webinars, communications strategy, jammer experience journey, resources and other collateral, we feel proud of pulling the event off. There is a lot of enthusiasm to re-do the event next year. If you're interested or know somehow who would be, please check out the website and also join us on Discord.

Website: https://powerup.koia.nz/theme

Discord: https://discord.gg/ZChCA3FFqJ

POWER Up! is thrilled to announce this year's game jam theme: Empower, Ignite, Uplift!

In a world where creativity knows no bounds, women from across the globe are coming together for a unique game jam designed to inspire, empower, and uplift one another. The theme "Empower, Ignite, Uplift!" calls on participants to channel their creativity, passion, and drive to create games that amplify voices, break barriers, and inspire change. Whether through stories of resilience, gameplay that challenges norms, adventures that excite the senses, or characters that reflect the strength of women everywhere, this event encourages participants to dream big and collaborate deeply.  

It's an opportunity to explore creative narratives, innovative gameplay mechanics, and design that fuels both personal and collective empowerment.

Participants are encouraged to draw from their unique experiences, cultures, and visions to create games that resonate emotionally and challenge players to think differently. The games can span across genres and work with any gaming format that evoke and stimulate senses of power, ignition, and being uplifted.

Empower, Ignite, Uplift are also all action words based on physical effects. You’re welcome to interpret those effects literally, figuratively, or put a unique spin on them. The theme is there to provide some inspiration and challenge, but it's up to you how closely you want to follow it.

This game jam isn't just about creating games—it's about fostering a global community of people who uplift each other, spark innovation, and take bold steps towards a more inclusive gaming industry. Through team-based collaborations, learning from each other, and growing the community, participants will be equipped with the tools and inspiration to make an impact far beyond the event itself. 

Whether you're a seasoned developer or new to game design, this is your chance to create something truly meaningful and lasting, in the spirit of creativity, fun, empowerment and unity.

Ready to Empower, Ignite, and Uplift? Let the games begin!