In conjunction with the 2014 LDSTech Conference in October, the Church is inviting app developers to participate in a Gospel App and Game Development Contest. The contest is open to everyone and participants are tasked with developing a gospel-centered game or app that will help flood the marketplace with quality entertainment alternatives for families. Detailed information can be found at tech.lds.org/blog/609.
Developers of all levels are encouraged to harness their creative and programming skills to “create something worthy.” Apps and games may be developed for Apple, Android, Windows or online platforms in the categories of Primary, youth and family.
Game content should be gospel related and have a purpose. Game developers should consider the following questions: What kinds of games and apps can help others have gospel-oriented fun or enjoy non-violent games? What can help others strengthen testimonies or develop personally? What kind of app would help people serve more effectively or connect with gospel and Church themes rather than worldly themes?
A large list of game ideas can be found at tech.lds.org/wiki/Apps_ideas. Some examples include read-along stories, music games, guessing games, civilization building, word-based games, self improvement, missionary opportunities, gospel sharing, a role-playing adventure game or a quest game to achieve goals related to scriptural events.
Awards, prizes and recognition will be offered for each category, plus additional awards for teen, senior, and first-time creators. Final submissions are due Oct. 10, 2014, a week before final judging at the LDSTech Conference.
“We’re seeing lots of interest from developers, artists and everyday people with ideas they would like to see made into a game,” said Kris Bentley, one of the creative minds behind the contest. “We have an ‘idea page’ set up for people to share ideas they may have, and we’re hoping that one of the forums we’ve set up on the LDSTech website (tech.lds.org/forum/viewforum.php?f=153) will help bring people together to work on a game or app.”
Developers should know that appropriate copyright and licensing for third party intellectual property, including Church-owned or licensed property, is required. The creator of the application will retain ownership and will not be asked to transfer ownership to the Church.
Registration is open for those who want to participate in the contest. This early registration process will help with communicating important information to developers and assist in resource planning. After Sept. 1, there is no need to register; developers can simply submit applications between Sept. 1 and Oct. 10, 2014.
Any game apps must include a disclaimer of any ownership by or affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Developers are not allowed to use the Church’s name or LDSTech to endorse a product. Questions regarding the contest should be directed to gameappcontest@ldschurch.org.
rmorgenegg@desnews.com @mreggman
