#Japan #Kyoto #Unreal Engine #Game Jam #Anime Jam

Unreal Engine Animation Hackathon: Anime x Game Jam 2026

Get ready for an exciting opportunity as Kyoko City, in collaboration with ANiC (Anime Industry Innovation Conference), hosts the Anime x Game Jam UE2 (Unlimited Energy 2) on August 1st and 2nd, 2026. This unique hackathon aims to empower students and emerging creators by providing them hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and creative processes in animation production.

Participants will delve into the realm of digital artistry, harnessing game engines and other technological tools to create innovative animation projects. They will also explore 3D motion capture using 3D avatars like Pretacomposita and mocopi® from partnering companies, further expanding their creative skill sets.

What is Anime x Game Jam UE2?

The Anime x Game Jam aims to break down industry barriers by inviting aspiring animators and game developers to collaborate and create new forms of visual animation. This intensive hackathon not only fosters creativity but also emphasizes teamwork and co-creation among participants.

Following the two-day hackathon, there will be a three-week improvement period during which the created works will be refined and evaluated by professional creators. In September, during the Kyoto International Manga and Anime Fair 2026 (Kyomafu), an award ceremony will showcase outstanding works, allowing participants to receive recognition from industry veterans.

The event is supported by experienced mentors from the animation and gaming industry, who will share their knowledge and insights into real-world production practices. Through this initiative, participants will not only create captivating animation projects but also forge networks with peers and industry professionals.

Who Should Participate?

The event is open to:

• - Aspiring animators and game developers.
• - Those with experience or interest in anime and game development using game engines and 3D software.
• - Individuals involved in training for anime and game-related careers, including educators and community organizers.

Note: While team submissions are allowed, individual applications are highly encouraged to promote community building.

Event Details

Multiple teams will be formed to utilize digital tools and create short films ranging from 15 seconds to 1 minute. Voice acting will be supported by a collaboration with voice actors and recording studios, and all videos will be published on YouTube after the event.

Schedule

• - Date: August 1-2, 2026
• - Time: 10 AM - 8 PM (Registration from 9:30)
• - Venue: Kyoto Design & Technology Vocational School

Program Highlights

• - Team building activities
• - Film production techniques
• - Voice recording sessions
• - Mid-term presentations

Mentors and Facilitators

Participants will be guided by a carefully selected roster of mentors including:

• - Kenji Itozo (Animation Director)
• - Kazuya Sakamoto (MAPPA Studio Head)
• - Akihiro Komiya (Graphinica Representative)

And many more professionals from the gaming and animation industries.

Capacity and Costs

• - Capacity: 35 participants (pre-registration required)
• - Participation Fee: Free, but participants are responsible for travel and accommodation costs.

How to Apply

Interested individuals can find further details and complete the application form on the official Anime x Game Jam UE2 website: Anime x Game Jam Official Website

• - Application Deadline: July 27, 2025, at 6:00 PM.

Related Events

To help attendees prepare, a series of pre-event workshops and one-to-one consultation sessions will also be held, including:

• - Individual Consultation: July 11, 2026, at Kyoto Computer Academy.
• - Special Seminars: Online guidance and discussions involving leading industry experts throughout July 2026.

Through the Anime x Game Jam, we aim to spur creativity and innovation within the animation industry, embracing the synergy between animation and interactive entertainment. Join us as we shape the future of animation!

For additional information, inquiries regarding this event can be directed to Tsukuria Co., Ltd. in Kyoto.

Join the Movement!

Don’t miss this chance to showcase your talents, collaborate with others, and take your creativity to new heights at the Anime x Game Jam UE2!