Press & Journal reports that Dundee East MSP and Sports minister, Shona Robison (right) announced the budding computer games designer competition at the launch of 4J Studios, Seabraes Lane, Dundee, where the winning entry for the 2014 Commonwealth Games will be developed>

 Any student studying in higher education in Scotland is eligible to enter, with a cash prize of £2,014 for both the winner and runner-up.

Contestants need to produce a digital game that sums up tthe Commonwealth Games Federation ethos including humanity, destiny and equality, living life to the full, endeavour, responsibility, style and fun – oh and also  incorporating the Glasgow 2014 brand.

Ms Robison said: “This ground-breaking initiative is an opportunity for Scotland to stamp its own innovative character on the games and reflect the success that already exists in our world-renowned games sector.

“We are working hard to maximise the long-term benefits of the 2014 games and this contest will help contribute to that goal by encouraging creative talent and forging links between education and industry.”

The winner will work with 4J Studios to develop their concept into a working game, which will then be available to play for free on the official Glasgow 2014 website. The judging panel include Scots game designer, entrepreneur Dave Jones,  Lemmings and Grand Theft Auto creator.

Glasgow 2014 CEO John Scott said: “Glasgow 2014 is all about getting people involved from across Scotland and inspiring people to do their best. I hope this competition achieves that.”

Break-neck games development
Elaine Russell, Dare to be Digital project manager, said: “This year we’re looking for exceptional creative game development talent, as well as strong commercial ideas about how the games developed at Abertay University can be taken to market after the competition.”
 
She added: “Games development is changing at a break-neck pace, with digital distribution channels making self-publishing a serious opportunity for very small teams. As well as the market for mobile phone gaming, there are also tablets, netbooks, handhelds and online distribution channels for PCs and consoles.
 
“I encourage all applicants to think both creatively and commercially. Dare to be Digital gives students a unique crash-course in team-working and access to personal advice from leading games developers. We’re expecting a large number of applications once again.”
 
Intel will support Dare to be Digital 2011 as part of their Visual Adrenaline Software Developer Program by providing – for the third year – state-of-the-art hardware and software tools to help students develop their game prototypes.
 
This year Dare ProtoPlay comes home to Dundee, with local companies and games development community all taking part in the city’s first ever computer games festival. Games companies who want to take part should get in touch at enquiries@daretobedigital.com.