8th Wall and HTC VIVERSE Announce 'Forge the Future' Global Game Jam
A New Era for Game Creators
Running from May 12, 2025, through June 30, 2025, 'Forge the Future' marks the first time Niantic has teamed up with a global content distribution partner to offer creators not only funding but also direct entry into the VIVERSE Creator Program*. Top teams will gain unprecedented visibility and support to bring their projects to a worldwide audience.
'We're thrilled to empower the next generation of creators with the tools, funding, and platform to shape the future of gaming,' said Joel Udwin, Director of Product at Niantic Spatial. 'Partnering with VIVERSE opens the door for developers to reach millions and push the boundaries of what's possible in real-world, cross-platform games.'
VIVERSE's Creator Program supports 3D content creators globally, partnering with creators across various industries, including interactive narratives, games, education, e-commerce, and more. The top three winners of the 'Forge the Future' competition will gain immediate access to the program to bring their 8th Wall game to the platform.
'Niantic is a leader in developing 3D immersive worlds and game tools that are changing how the world views VR/AR,' said Andranik Aslanyan, Head of Growth, HTC VIVERSE. 'Collaborating with 8th Wall is an exciting step forward to supporting creators with their favorite tools and platform, all to grow the 3D creator community.'
Key highlights of the Forge the Future Game Jam include:
Powerful Tools, No Cost to Join: Build using Niantic Studio on 8th Wall for free during the Game Jam.
Global Opportunity: Open to developers, studios, students, artists, and dreamers around the world.
Major Prizes: $10,000 for 1st place, $6,000 for 2nd place, $4,000 for 3rd place through the VIVERSE Creator Program, plus multiple $2,000 and $1,000 category prizes.
Direct Access: Winners receive invitations to the prestigious VIVERSE Creator Program.
Workshops & Mentoring: Participants will have access to ideation support, technical 1:1s, and exclusive industry events throughout the Game Jam.
How to Participate
Registration is open now at 8th.io/gamejam and the first live Info Session kicks off on May 12 at 11am PT. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Residents of certain countries are excluded from participation; see official rules for details.
*Terms and conditions apply
About 8th Wall
8th Wall is Niantic Spatial's award-winning 3D & XR development platform that makes it possible to build interactive, immersive content that can be experienced on any device—no app required. 8th Wall supports billions of devices globally and has been used by developers, agencies and creative studios to create 3D/AR activations for brands across industry verticals including retail, food and beverage, travel and tourism, automotive, fashion, sports and entertainment. 8th Wall has powered WebAR experiences for top brands such as Nike, Porsche, Sony Pictures, Burger King, General Mills, British Gas, Heineken, McDonald's, Swiss Airlines, Toyota, Red Bull, Adidas, COACH and more. Learn more about 8th Wall at www.8thwall.com.
About VIVERSE
VIVERSE is an open and user-centric 3D place that connects people from all walks of life to a boundless virtual world. We strive to empower as many people as possible to explore, work, and play in a safe environment. Every experience is unique, and your transactions and data are secure. VIVERSE provides an array of tools and services for individuals, creators, corporations, and developers to build and explore in this immersive space. Visit the VIVERSE website here:
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