Ever Wanted to Create Your Own Video Game?

You can learn how to develop a video game right here on the Island

Government’s Economic Development Department (EDD) sponsors Bermuda Island Games (BIG), coding bootcamps and you’re invited to register.

BIG is a Bermudian company working to promote Bermuda through video games, and helping to build a video game development industry on the Island, including starting a community of like-minded gamers, artists, and programmers.

Over the past 3 years, BIG has been growing its fans. Prior to COVID 19, it helped found the Bermuda E-Sports League which has since hosted several local tournaments, including Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Super Smash Bros.

In March 2022, BIG held the Island’s first Video Game Design Challenge, a free event that tested and developed the participants’ creativity and ability to apply what they learned into creating a game concept. That was the first of several BIG events, which welcome anyone aged 13 and up who has a keen interest in video gaming. Some participants have been as young as 7 years old – and the oldest contestant was 25.

To keep things new and unexpected, each event had its own theme, starting with ‘Sharks’. And to keep the prizes interesting, BIG incorporated an ‘Easter Egg’, a hidden object that no one knows about until they find it. Separate from the grand prize, one Easter Egg prize was a PlayStation 5 game.

BIG events are based on an extensive game development curriculum that covers game development concepts, including monetisation. To give everyone a fair chance, BIG provides the participants with a standardised outline. Regardless of background, experience, or prior knowledge, everyone follows the same procedures and covers the same core areas.

First place bootcamp winner, Macen Outerbridge says “I had the best time and look forward to the next one. Thank you for a wonderful event” His game

The Bermuda Government Department of Economic Development (EDD) facilitates the exploration of innovative trends and the development of appropriate policies in support of Bermuda’s economic development and diversification goals. It also promotes Bermuda as the optimal jurisdiction across industries. In addition to housing the Office of Fintech, the EDD provides a wide range of services including concierge and engagement as well as education and training. It is also responsible for the Alien Land Licensing and the Incentives for Job Makers processes. www.gov.bm/department/economic-development-department Instagram: edd_bermuda/ Facebook: EcomonicDevelopmentDepartment

LinkedIn: The Economic Development Department idea, Secrets of the Island, was a mystery adventure game.

Second place winner Jakeem Edmead developed a game called Shark Mist, where you try to survive as a shark with hunters interested in your shark oil.

Adrian Lodge, BIG founder, describes the events as opportunities to more than just code: “In addition to the thrill of the competition, a positive aspect of our events is that everyone learns and socialises, not just the participants – but the volunteers as well.”

BIG is one of many efforts island-wide that the EDD supports. Together, they contribute to developing a sustained, informed, skilled, and connected talent pool seeped in tech and innovation and ready to become active members of Bermuda’s tech ecosystem where everyone has a role to play.

So, if you ever wanted to create your own video game, this is where you come. Look out for BIG’s next bootcamp, and sign up. www.bermudaislandgames.com