Game On to Mars

Game On to Mars

A Coding Competition

What is it?

Join a futuristic coding challenge to build your own web-based game inspired by the UAE’s space vision; where culture, science, and creativity collide!

Criteria

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Age: 14–17 years old

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Format: Group of 2–3 (at least 1 Emirati per team)

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Skill level: Basic coding and design skills recommended

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Language: English

Prizes

1st Place: AED 3,000

2nd Place: AED 2,000

3rd Place: AED 1,000

HyperX gaming accessories

How it Works:

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Step 1 – Pitch Your Game Idea

Submit a brief description of your space-themed game in the registration form.

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Step 2 – Get Shortlisted & Gear Up

If selected, gather your team and your own laptops to Ru’ya, ready to code, design, and create! You can use any free or open-source platform, as long as the game can be played in a browser.

Popular options include Unity, Unreal Engine, Godot, Construct and GameMaker. To help you get started, here are some useful links to build your skills:

Unity Learn 

Unreal Engine 

Godot  

GameMaker 

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Step 3 – Build Your Game

Choose your tools, unleash your creativity, and bring your game to life! From coding and AI to design and storytelling, this is your chance to make your vision a reality.

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In Partnership with:

Game On to Mars – FAQ

What game design platform can we use for developing the game?

Participants may use any free or open-source platform, provided the game is playable in a browser, such as Unity, Unreal Engine, Godot, Construct, Game Maker, or similar.

Is the usage of AI allowed in the design of the game?

You are expected to showcase your creativity and coding skills in this challenge. But, we will allow use of responsible AI in your game design. If you decide to use AI, you are required to report the use of AI in the final presentation. AI tools cannot be used to create the whole game without customization and should showcase you and your team’s creativity.

If you don’t report use of the AI in your game development process, your submission will be disqualified.

How will the games be evaluated?

A panel of judges will evaluate the games in the finals using the below criteria.

  • Use of Theme: Through gameplay, players can engage with content relevant to the theme of UAE’s space vision to Mars.
  • Game Mechanics: The rules and mechanics that govern gameplay are well-defined and provide an exciting game experience.
  • UX Design: The game provides an enhanced experience that is intuitive, easy to access, etc.
  • Fun & Engaging: Playing the game is an enjoyable and engaging experience.