The incubator is a free, six week workshop series designed to help ten women (cis/trans) make their first game. Whether it’s a platformer, educational, or historical drama, each participant will make any game their heart desires. We will select participants (who identify as a woman) of different talents and experiences to make their first game with us. This year, we are running the incubator in French!
Applications for the Pixelles Game Incubator V is now closed (as of November 22nd at 11:59PM). All applicants will receive a response before mid-December.
Have you ever wanted to make a game but didn’t know where to start or how to make one? The deadline is for the incubator has passed, but you can still make your game! Join our Follow-Along program! So whether you’re an artist, writer, chemist, chef, mother, student, sound engineer, dancer, etc you should join us because you can make a game! No programming or previous games experience required!
→ When & Where
→ What to Expect
→ Info Session
→ Apply now!
→ Frequently Asked Questions
When & Where:
Where: at Ubisoft Montreal’s Fun House!
When: 6 sessions from 6-9pm on Wednesdays, from January 4th until February 8th
What to expect during a session:
- Meet up once a week from 6-9pm for 6 weeks.
- Explore game making tools and applications (that don’t require programming)
- Get feedback on your game’s progress from peers and mentors
- Hear other women in games talk about how they got started, issues they’ve faced, and what they’re passionate about!
- Make your game in a helpful, friendly atmosphere!
- Help discover that you do have the ability, skills, & confidence necessary to make games!
Info Session
If you missed our info session, don’t panic! (Here are the summary and the slides!)
The most important take-away note is: Be yourself! Do not be afraid to write a whole lot about yourself! We want to get to know you through your application!
How much work is this?
Outside of each session, participants are expected to work on their game and any assignments. You’ll need to set aside at least 6 hours a week, which can include attending our optional, extra work sessions on Saturdays from 2pm – 5pm. At the end, we’ll have a big showcase to present your game to the public!
Apply!
The application deadline was November 22nd at 11:59PM. Please note that we will only accept applications of women-identified persons from Montreal.
The deadline is for the incubator has passed, but you can still make your game! Join our Follow-Along program!
FAQ
I applied last year but wasn’t accepted. Can I apply again this year?
Yes, of course! Just because you weren’t chosen last year doesn’t mean that you won’t be accepted into the program this year. Lots of variables go into selecting our 10 participants and this year you just might be the perfect fit! We choose what we feel like is a balanced and harmonious group dynamic, so the main thing is to please write a lot in your application, and really introduce us to who you are. Do it! Apply :D
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, you must be over 18.
How much does this cost?
Other than your time, it’s free!
Do I need to have any programming, art, or sound skills?
No, but you should know how to use a computer (Mac or PC). It’ll be useful if you’re at least familiar with how Photoshop works in order to create or manipulate assets. However, if you don’t, your fellow incubees will help you!
What kind of game am I expected to make?
Each of the participants will be making their own individual games. You won’t be making the next Half-Life. You’ll be making a prototype of your game. To get an idea of what’s exactly feasible check out the games from previous incubators.
Does Pixelles own my game or make money off of it once the workshop is complete?
No, your game is 100% yours to do whatever you want with! This is not an incubator like you see trending in start ups where there are investors and we take money if you decide to sell your game.
Do I need to bring my own laptop?
Pixelles may be able to lend you spare computers to work on during sessions, but it’s always better to have your own machine to use.
How does Pixelles feel about me being transgender or my sexual orientation?
All of our programs are LGTBQ-friendly! :D The same goes for any other aspect of your background, such as race, disability, language, etc. Pixelles is dedicated to creating a comfortable environment of inclusion, and we have an ever-evolving Safer Spaces policy to help. We’d love to have you apply!
I’m a guy and I want to participate!
Sorry, the incubator is open only to applicants who identify as a woman. However, you’re still be able to sign up for our Follow Along program which lets you participate in the program from home, support, access to session summaries, & an invitation to extra work sessions. You’re also welcome to attend any of our monthly skill workshops. If you’re interested in helping out, play testing, mentoring, or in any other way send us an e-mail to info@pixelles.ca.
