Global UNICEF Game Jam: the jury’s selection revealed
Industry experts reveal their selection of video games created by young talents
Play is one of the most powerful ways to learn and grow. Research shows that, when designed right, digital games can nurture children and young people’s well-being in ways that few other activities can: helping them build confidence and competence, regulate emotions, form relationships, explore creativity, and even shape their identities.
The first global UNICEF Game Jam challenged young people under 21 years old from eight countries (Armenia, Brazil, Cambodia, India, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Morocco, and South Africa ) to celebrate play, creativity and digital skills through video game development.
More than 50 entries were submitted, spanning puzzle adventures, environmental missions, and cultural journeys. Each game reflected the imagination, talent, and determination of young creators across the world, determined to make a mark with their ideas and ingenuity.
“We were so impressed by the quality of the games and the creativity behind every pixel and story. Designing a video game is more than coding: it’s telling a personal story, learning new skills, and making your voice heard. These young talents not only created something remarkable, they gained confidence and skills in STEAM, design, and storytelling that will stay with them well beyond this game jam,” said Oumayma Raimi, Innovation Manager at UNICEF Office of Innovation and Game Changers Coalition lead.
“Congratulations to all participants for their courage and talent, and thank you to the jury members for sharing their expertise to help shape the future of the tech industry”.
Best Game Design & Narrative
Overcharged (Brazil)
Júlia Roberta, 21; Julia Vitória, 20; Letícia, 19; Asher, 20.
Overcharged is a retro-inspired puzzle game that transports players into the mysterious world of a restored arcade machine. Combining strategy, story, and puzzle-based challenges, the game reflects the team’s love for classic arcade aesthetics.
“We built Overcharged in just three days. For us, it shows how teamwork and creativity can bring even the boldest ideas to life,” shared the developers.
Play the game: https://lvl100studio.itch.io/overcharged-prototype
Best Game Sound
Mission Green Planet (Cambodia)
Aphichhat, 15; Socheata, 15. Mentor: Sokkear.
Mission Green Planet challenges players to collect trash, replant forests, and restore ecosystems while fighting carbon monsters with a “Solar Beam Gun.” The game’s vibrant sound design brings urgency and excitement to the mission of protecting the environment.
“We wanted to show how small actions like planting trees or reducing waste can have a big impact on our planet,” explain the creators.
Play the game: https://aphichhat2025.itch.io/mission-green-planet
Best Game Mechanics
Stop Dengue (Cambodia)
Pheng, 15.
In Stop Dengue, players embark on an adventurous quest to eliminate mosquito nests with sprays, keys, and portals. With creative level design, the game raises awareness about mosquito-borne diseases while keeping players engaged through fast-paced action.
“My proudest achievement is making the game more fun and challenging each time I update it. I want people to enjoy playing while also understanding the dangers mosquitoes bring,” said the young creator.
Play the game: https://npds12.itch.io/stop-dengue
Best Game Art & Animation
Loanly Semester (Malaysia)
Nur, 17; Akyas, 16; Foo, 17.
Loanly Semester blends financial literacy with an engaging simulation experience. Players must balance energy, grades, and debt repayment while navigating student life. The game stands out for its colorful art style and relatable theme for young audiences.
“We had just met each other for the first time, but we managed to collaborate and create something meaningful. That teamwork is what we are most proud of,” reflected the team.
Play the game: https://catannoyed.itch.io/loanly-semester
Best First Time Creator
Journey Through Khmer Culture (Cambodia)
Kimsorng, 16; Bunleang, 20.
This educational puzzle game invites players to discover Cambodian landmarks, festivals, and greetings. Designed to promote tourism and cultural pride, it offers fun while introducing global audiences to Khmer traditions.
“We wanted people to understand my culture better. Creating this game on my own was a challenge, but completing it, especially the landmark puzzle, was my proudest accomplishment,” said Kimsorng and Bunleang.
Play the game: https://kimsorng123.itch.io/journey-through-khmer-culture
Best Develop Like a Pro
Ember (India)
Shounak, 19; Sourish, 20; Saurav, 19; Barnali, 20; Riddhi, 19; Sayani, 20.
Set in a dark cave where a lone spark drifts against the void, Ember is a minimalist puzzle-platform about resilience and hope. With torch-teleportation mechanics and a striking art style, it reflects how even the smallest light can grow into something greater.
“For us, Ember represents beginnings. It’s about carrying hope forward, even in the darkest times. We’re proud of how our art, story, and gameplay came together into a complete experience,” the team shared.
Play the game: https://dual-knight-studios.itch.io/ember
Best Social Impact
Green Ever (Cambodia)
Seanghai, 16; Rachana, 16; Mouyseam, 15; Sreyny, 15; Thida, 14; Shealang, 16. Mentor: Kemhong.
Created by an all-girl team, Green Ever encourages players to plant trees, dispose of waste responsibly, and care for the environment. With a strong focus on education, it aims to inspire young people to protect forests and reduce plastic pollution.
“Our proudest moment is knowing this game can raise awareness and encourage others to love the environment as much as we do,” said the team.
Play the game: https://sounthida.itch.io/green-ever
To help participants bring their ideas to life, the UNICEF Game Jam offered mentorship sessions with industry experts and an online course designed to guide young creators through the video game development process.
Video games and game jams can be powerful tools for learning, fostering creativity, and driving positive change. From raising awareness about climate action and health to celebrating culture and resilience, the selected entries prove that young people are tuned to the world’s challenges and opportunities and stand ready to make a difference.
“Video games and game jams spark creativity, problem-solving, and exploration. Core digital skills in the future.”
Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget and Game Jam champion.
“Game jams are a really great tool. They let you leap from being a player to a creator. They’re all about learning to work with a team to bring a shared vision to life - building a real foundation for your future.”
Johnny VanDerschaaf, Visual Media Manager at Micron Foundation and Game Gam jury member.
This is only the beginning. With support from partners such as the Global Video Game Coalition, the Micron Foundation, and Bitget, as well as ecosystem builders like Women in Games, the UNICEF Game Changers Coalition will continue to support young people in shaping the video games—and the digital world—of tomorrow.
