When staff from Noroff University College organised and ran Global Game Jam 2026, it turned into a weekend packed with creativity, collaboration, and fast-paced game development.
Students from the Interactive Media – Animation and Interactive Media – Games programs, alongside participants from other Noroff campuses, online students, and external game enthusiasts, were given just 48 hours to transform an idea into a finished game. The result was a hands-on learning experience that closely mirrors how the industry actually works.
Learning by doing
Global Game Jam is an international event where participants create games from scratch, within an extremely limited timeframe. For Noroff students, the staff-led event was a chance to put their academic knowledge into practice while collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds and skill sets.
Throughout the weekend, participants worked across disciplines, from animation and visual storytelling to programming, sound design, and game mechanics. The pace was intense, requiring creativity, teamwork, and the ability to solve problems on the fly.
Several students traveled from other campuses to take part, and external developers also joined in. This created a more authentic environment, offering valuable insight into how collaboration and workflows function in the game and media industries.
Lecturers working side by side with students
The event was organised and led by university lecturer Hoda Salman, together with a team of Noroff University College staff, who actively participated throughout the entire weekend. Rather than observing from the sidelines, they worked closely with students, provided feedback, and contributed directly to the projects.
– Events like this highlight the importance of active and engaged teaching. When we collaborate side by side with students, learning becomes a shared experience. Students build confidence, and we gain valuable insight into how they apply their skills in practice, says Salman.
This kind of interaction is a key part of the Noroff learning experience and helps make the transition into professional life more relevant and seamless.
Experience that matters
Over the course of the weekend, participants developed a wide range of games that showcase creativity, technical skill, and strong collaboration.
But perhaps even more valuable than the final products was the experience itself. Students strengthened their ability to work in teams, communicate effectively, and perform under pressure, skills that are essential in careers within game development, animation, and interactive media.
Learning beyond the classroom
Plans are already underway for a dedicated Game Jam this autumn, timed with the start of the academic year. The goal is to give students across different programs the opportunity to explore game development while also building a stronger sense of community between cohorts and disciplines.
– We want to create more opportunities where students can work hands-on and engage directly with the industry. That’s where some of the most meaningful learning happens, says Salman.
Want to work with games, animation, or interactive experiences?
At Noroff University College, you can study Interactive Media and gain practical experience with the tools and workflows used in the industry.
Interactive Media – Animation
Learn visual storytelling, animation, and creative production for digital platforms.
Interactive Media – Games
Work with game design, mechanics, and development—and learn how to take a game from concept to finished product.
Discover more about our programs and take the next step in your journey!
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