Only Safe Below

Game Jam Theme

The overworld is dangerous or unstable. Dungeons are the only places where the player can recover, prepare, or feel safe. Submissions should encourage exploration while keeping the player aware that the surface is hazardous and that survival depends on finding refuge below.

Requirements

All submissions must include the following:

Overworld

A connected world that the player can explore, which poses meaningful risks

At least 3 Dungeon Styled Zones

Each dungeon zone should offer unique challenges such as puzzles, combat, or navigation

what we consider "Dungeons" in the normal sense, being a cave, an enemy castle, etc...themselves act as safe zones, checkpoints, or recovery areas

So basically:

Overworld - dangerous

Dungeons in the traditional sense - Safe Zones

At least 12 NPCs

NPCs should provide dialogue, information, or interaction

Placing NPCs in dungeons is encouraged

At least 5 Unique Progression Items

Items must meaningfully affect gameplay or unlock new areas

Combat System

Must include both:

A primary form of attack

A form of defense

Art and Asset

Original assets are strongly encouraged

Royalty-free assets are allowed

Copyrighted assets are not allowed under any circumstances

Any submission found using ripped or copyrighted assets will be disqualified.

Judging Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

World Design

Dungeon Design

Progression System

Enemy/Boss Design

NPCs

Polish

Duration

30 days

Teams

Team participation is highly encouraged. You may work solo or with others.

Rules

Submissions must be playable

No copyrighted material

Any engine or tools may be used

Goal

Create a complete, exploration-driven adventure where the player navigates a dangerous overworld and relies on dungeons as safe havens. Focus on progression, discovery, meaningful NPC interactions, and a polished gameplay experience.

Join the Discord

Also, TL:DR, Dungeons are towns, overworld is one big dungeon.

https://discord.gg/ct3PkYSs3k