The most important thing about a game jam is to have fun. But let’s be honest - we all also want to come out of it with a game that’s actually playable, funny, and something we can be proud of. So how can constraints actually boost your creativity? In this talk, we’ll first let ourselves be completely overwhelmed by ideas and creativity, without saying “no” to anything. Then, it presents a strategy for introducing limitations in a way that keeps the essence of the game intact. Julie will also give an inside look at her process for creating four games for the Playdate, a platform that’s incredibly limited: 1-bit color, few buttons, tiny screens, and minimal space. This taught her a lot about defining a small, focused scope, and also how to make unique games even when faced with tons of constraints. The talk is full of practical and playful advice on how to design constraints that don’t feel restrictive, but instead open doors to unexpected ideas, bold decisions, and wildly inventive solutions. When you have fewer tools, fewer rules, and fewer options, something magical happens: you start thinking outside the box - because the box is sooooo tiny you can barely fit inside it.

About Julie (she/her)
Julie Bjørnskov is a game developer who loves crafting small, creative games that explore unusual themes and playful platforms. She has created four games for the little yellow Playdate console, including Escape the Arcade, which won The Leap of Faith Award at Spilprisen, and Wheelsprung, featured in Season Two on Playdate. Right now, she’s developing Escape the Baby Alarm a lighthearted and funny, escape room-inspired puzzle game about the chaos and love that come with becoming a parent. Coming to Steam. Julie is passionate about bringing visual storytelling, music, and creative experiments into games that are heartfelt, curious, and just a little bit weird.