Hosted by the University of Tartu Institute of Computer Science and the CGVR Lab the Tartu Ülikooli Mängujämm 2025 brought together over 80 enthusiastic participants forming 19 teams — all united by one mission: to build a complete computer game in under 48 hours. Designed with beginners in mind, the event had a a supportive and collaborative atmosphere, making it the perfect entry point into the world of game development.
It also linked participants to the global game dev scene by allowing them to simultaneously enter Ludum Dare 57, one of the largest international game jams. The hybrid format welcomed both local participants at the Delta Building and remote developers via Discord, ensuring broad participation.
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Making Their (First) Games
The event kicked off on Friday evening (04.04) with eager developers meeting their teammates and registering their teams. An inspiring keynote by Markus Sulg set the tone, sparking creativity and excitement. By midnight, teams were officially locked in and ready for action.
In the early morning of Saturday the theme was revealed (Depths), bringing a lot of brainstorming, sketching, and prototyping. The entire day was dedicated entirely to development. In the evening participants had also access to the Computer Graphics and Virtual Reality Lab, where they could test VR setups and explore different games for both inspiration and well-deserved breaks. Markus Sulg showed Bootstrap Island to the participants and our lab team showed older game jam games.
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The Final Day
On Sunday (06.04), the final hours were intense as teams polished their projects and prepared their submissions. By 16:00, all games were uploaded, and judging began. Participants played and voted on each other’s games, while guest speaker and tutor Marek Pihel offered thoughtful commentary and feedback on the creations.
Each team then presented their game, walking the audience through their development process and creative decisions. The event wrapped up with an exciting awards ceremony celebrating achievements in innovation, gameplay, storytelling, and creative use of the theme.
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The Challenge and the Results
Creating a game in less than 48 hours is no easy feat. It demanded a blend of creativity, coding, sound design, problem-solving, and constant collaboration. Over the weekend, tutors offered support, check-ins, and expert advice to help teams move from idea to finished product.
Whether participants were complete newcomers or more experienced, the jam was an incredible chance to learn, create, and work together. For many, it marked their first real dive into game development — a journey filled with fresh skills, new friendships, and games they could proudly call their own.
I PLACE – It’s not that deep
by Anete Ainjärv, Anneli Oro, Karl-Ustav Kõlar, Marten Peljo, Rio Truija
It’s Not That Deep is a 2D platformer where you play as a skeleton trying to escape the depths of hell — but there’s a twist: you can’t jump. Instead, you launch yourself using bombs. Blast your way up, aim with your mouse, and time your explosions just right to climb out of the underworld. Simple, chaotic, and a little bit explosive.
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II PLACE – The Waters of Lake Peipsi
by Rasmus Jürgenson, Samuel Saar, Krislin Lisette Sepp, Hans Rune Lasse, Tristan Vaik, Marten Liiskmaa
In this retro-inspired submarine sim, you are the captain of a lone sub navigating the dark, mine-infested waters of Lake Peipsi. The Soviets have laid a deadly field of naval mines, and only your sonar and periscope stand between you and certain doom. Move slowly, think carefully, and uncover hidden intel before it’s too late. Your people are counting on you — and the lake doesn’t forgive mistakes.
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III PLACE – Mafushi
by Veronika Kukk, Oskar Unn, Marta Rein, Kristjan Kaljukivi, Laura-Liis Irmann
You’re Glider — a hardworking dolphin just trying to run a humble family sushi joint under the sea. But today’s catch isn’t just fish… it’s trouble. A shiver of mafia sharks has stormed your restaurant, demanding sushi or else. Feed their hunger, save your family, and survive the underwater mob scene!
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