Welcome back Indie Game Enthusiasts! Last week, we talked about game jams. As a game developer, who specializes in creating visual novels, I want to highlight an upcoming game jam opportunity. Today, on Indie Game Update, we will discuss the Otome Jam 2024 from itch.io!
What is an Otome Game?
An Otome game is generally a visual novel with a general theme of romance. There is usually a female protagonist that you play as who is surrounded by a multitude of male love interests. Depending on the routes taken and choices made, this will lead you as the protagonist to end up with a certain love interest. A popular aspect of Otome games also allow for multiple play-throughs of the game so gamers can have different encounters and journeys between love interests.
Otome Game Example
Since we are talking about Otome games and game jams, here is a visual novel that is the best of both worlds. The visual novel Talents by Izumi Games.
Izumi Games is a solo indie game developer who’s main focus is Otome games. Talents was their game entry for the Otome Jam 2023.
Game Summary: Play as an aspiring game writer and designer who dives into a business partnership with a rowdy crew of talented co-founders, aiming to conquer the game development industry through their shared stories, love, and relentless determination. Will you write your way to the top?
*A visual novel about the life of game devs in the indie game development industry.*
Otome Jam 2024 (itch.io)
The Otome Jam 2024 is hosted by Akua and Crystal Game Works. The submissions were open from April 30th 2024 and will close July 1st 2024. So far, 790 people have joined and there are 19 game entries published. If you join, this is a great opportunity to have gamers interested in Otome games to discover you as a developer. If you prefer to join this game jam in the future, it is a great opportunity to study and learn from other developers on how they create and execute their games. Whichever route you go, make sure to have fun!
Information and Rules
*Due Date: July 1st 2024 at 5AM*
**(Updates on Tuesday!)**
See you soon!
~Jessa 👾