Reddit’s Games with a Hook Hackathon

The challenge

Create a new Reddit game for the Reddit community using Devvit, Reddit's Developer Platform. The game should utilize Devvit Web, allowing development with familiar web technologies like React, Phaser, or three.js, or with game engines such as Godot, GameMaker, or Unity. The primary goal is to build an "experience that will keep people coming back," focusing on elements like progression, daily challenges, fresh content, meaningful choices, social dynamics, or anticipation.

Tracks / categories

• Best Use of Phaser: For the most innovative use of the Phaser game development framework.
• Best Use of Retention Mechanisms: For the best implementation of mechanics that encourage daily or recurring engagement.
• Best Use of User Contributions: For apps that effectively leverage user-generated content (comments, posts, drawings, levels) to drive engagement.

Required tech & constraints

• Games must be built on Devvit Web.
• Must comply with Devvit Rules.
• Existing projects are accepted if significantly updated during the hackathon.
• Entries should be as close to launch-ready as possible, with bonus points for a good mobile experience.
• Participants must be above the legal age of majority in their country of residence.
• Open to all countries/territories, excluding standard exceptions.

Submission requirements

• App listing – Link to your app on developer.reddit.com.
• Demo post – Link to your subreddit and a public post running your game, making the experience self-explanatory.
• Optional: Complete the Developer Platform feedback survey for a chance at the Best Feedback prize.

Judging criteria

• Delightful UX: Exciting layouts and themes, easy and fun to explore.
• Polish: Submission should be close to publishable, with clear understanding through example posts. Closer to launch quality scores higher.
• Reddit-y: Apps should have their own identity, be community-minded, and bring something fresh to the platform, embodying the spirit of community and embracing topics people care about.
• Hook-y: Provides a compelling reason for users to return regularly through anticipation, ongoing goals, evolving experiences, or fresh opportunities.
• Phaser Innovation (Phaser Category): Creative and effective use of Phaser tools that elevate gameplay, polish, and technical execution.

Prizes

• Best App with a Hook: $15,000 cash (1 winner)
• Best Use of Phaser: $5,000 cash (1 winner)
• Best Use of Retention Mechanisms: $3,000 cash (1 winner)
• Best Use of User Contributions: $3,000 cash (1 winner)
• Honorable Mentions: $1,000 cash (10 winners)
• Devvit Helper Award: $500 cash (6 winners)
• Feedback Awards: $200 cash (5 winners)

Bonus / optional points

• Bonus points for a good mobile experience.
• Optional: Submit Developer Platform feedback for a chance at the Best Feedback prize.