Progressive Game Jam returned with a full room and a clear goal: build together, learn together, and arrive at Capital Creative Showcase with projects the community can be proud of. Session 1 took place at Valhallan Esports in Folsom, where about twenty developers, artists, writers, and students gathered to pitch ideas, form teams, and set their plan for the season.
Two familiar faces helped get things moving. SDC veterans Brandon and Jim circled between groups, asked sharp questions, and encouraged anyone with an idea to speak up. That made the pitch round fast and friendly, which is exactly what you want on day one.
A few early moments stood out. One team is exploring a revival of the old school RTS feel, complete with clear resource loops and snappy match flow. It’s the kind of back-to-basics pitch that gets heads nodding. We also heard genuine passion from a couple of high schoolers who came ready to learn, contribute, and ship something real. PGJ thrives on that mix of experience and fresh perspective.
How this season works
Teams will collaborate online between meetups, then check in monthly in person as they build toward Capital Creative Showcase. The format keeps scope realistic, gives accountability, and leaves room for course-corrections as prototypes evolve. Expect each session to include quick progress updates, focused problem-solving, and time for informal playtesting.
Everyone is welcome. If you missed Session 1, you can still jump in to help a team with code, art, audio, design, writing, testing, or production support. PGJ is built for contributors at many levels. If you bring consistency and curiosity, you’ll fit right in.
Progressive Game Jam is where Sacramento’s game dev community meets momentum. It’s a low-pressure way to practice teamwork, finish a playable slice, and learn modern tools by doing. You’ll leave each month with something concrete to show, feedback to act on, and a clearer path to your CCS deliverable.
Get involved
Want in? Join a team, volunteer as a mentor, or stop by the next in-person session to meet the group and see what’s in progress. Share your role, what you’d like to learn, and how many hours you can realistically commit. That’s all teams need to plug you in.