Welcome to the first Synty Screenshot Jam of 2026

What is a screenshot jam?

Great question! You might be more familiar with the concept of a game jam, where individuals and teams come together across a specific time period to produce a small game concept. An screenshot, or image, jam operates similarly, however the output is a static screenshot/image rather than a game, and we allow for screenshot jam entries from individuals only. 

If you haven’t taken part in a screenshot jam before, we highly recommend giving it a go! Pushing your ideas conceptually in order to create a captivating, single screenshot image is a fantastic way to stretch your creative skills. 

THEME FOR THIS JAM: 'The Prophecy'

Jam Rules

• Please follow the theme given for the jam!
• Please try to avoid adding extra text or words on top of your completed image - an image is worth a thousand words after all! Text on props or in-situ elements or if shown in dialogue is allowed. 
• Submission must be in 16:9 format (ideally 1080p or 4k).
• Only Synty models may be used - kitbashing is allowed as long as you can tell visually that it is Synty assets being used.
• You must not use any projects you have started previously. Your submission must be created from scratch during the Jam period, and submitted before the Jam deadline. We will not accept late submissions to keep the event fair for everyone. 
• Use of Generative AI is not allowed. This includes, text, images, audio and video. 
• There are no other limitations on what engine or software you use.
  
• NSFW content is not allowed, please keep it clean (Teen/PG13) find more information in our FAQ.
• Entries must be submitted via the itch.io jam page
• You must be a member of the Synty Studios Community Discord to participate (link at the bottom of the page), as that is where prizes will be distributed.
• Any submission to this jam (including the game, artwork etc) may be used in Synty promotional material including, but not limited to, social media and our blog without your express permission.
• Synty reserves the right to disqualify or remove any submission from the competition at their sole discretion.

Award Categories

🤩 Best Visuals – The most visually striking screenshot, chosen by Synty Staff

📖 Best Story – Conveying the best narrative in a single screenshot, chosen by Synty Staff

⭐ Best Innovation – The most innovative use of assets, chosen by Synty Staff

🫶 Community Choice – The screenshot voted best by the Synty community (voting will be open once the jam ends for 4 days)

Each category winner will be awarded a US$50 Synty Store gift voucher prize and a special Discord role!

FAQ

Can I submit a screenshot from a project I started before the jam? 
You cannot use any projects you have started previously. Your submission must be created from scratch.

Can I enter as a team? 
We are only accepting solo entries for this Jam.

Can I use any assets that are not Synty?
As this is a Synty specific Jam, only Synty models may be used - kitbashing is allowed as long as you can tell visually that it is Synty assets being used.

Does my game have to use a specific engine?
Nope! Your entry can be developed using any engine or software, as long as Generative AI is not used.

Can I submit an entry with adult content? 
You must keep your submission within PG13 / Teen rating guidelines. Submissions that would be considered rated 18+ will not be accepted and will be removed. Violence, suggestive themes, crude humour, minor amounts of blood, and strong language are permitted. Think about whether you'd be comfortable with a 13 year old seeing the content, or refer to https://www.esrb.org/ratings-guide/ for more guidance.

I found bugs or issues with my entry after submissions ended. Can I change the submission? 
Once submissions have ended, you will no longer be able to edit your submission. However, while the submission period is open, you are able to edit your submission freely!

Can I vote on the entries once voting is open? 
Yes, for this jam we will have a single community voted winner, and three winners selected by Synty Studios under separate judging categories. The community voting will take place through itch.io’s voting system and is open to all!

Got more questions? Want to chat with those participating in the Jam or get involved with the Synty Community? Join our Discord community of aspiring and professional game devs!   

Good luck, and remember to have fun :)