A community of game developers is set to honor the beloved yet controversial persuasion mechanic from The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion through a new event called Wheeljam. Scheduled to run alongside Oblivion’s 19th anniversary, this game jam invites creators to reimagine the classic minigame within new projects. Enthusiasts are excited about the opportunity to revisit and reinterpret a fundamental aspect of Oblivion’s gameplay, fostering creativity and collaboration among participants.
Wheeljam introduces a focused challenge for developers, differing from previous initiatives that offered broader themes. This targeted approach aims to reignite interest in Oblivion’s unique features while encouraging innovative applications in modern game design.
What is Wheeljam?
Wheeljam is a week-long game development competition centered around the persuasion minigame from The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Participants must design their games to incorporate elements such as Admire, Joke, Coerce, and Boast. According to the organizers,
“YOUR GAME MUST HAVE WHEEL.”
This requirement ensures that each entry maintains a direct connection to the original mechanic.
How to Participate?
The event takes place from March 13 to March 20, marking Oblivion’s 19th anniversary. Developers can join individually or in teams of any size, providing flexibility and opportunities for diverse collaboration. All development work must occur within this timeframe, and submissions must avoid bigotry and AI-generated content.
Prize and Judging
Entries will be evaluated by the jam hosts, with winners receiving a 3D-printed Oblivion wheel that features functional magnets. One participant mentioned the appeal of the prize, noting plans to use the provided 3D-printing files to create their own wheel if they do not win. This tangible reward serves as a unique incentive for creators to engage deeply with the event.
Wheeljam not only celebrates a staple of a classic RPG but also encourages developers to breathe new life into a cherished game element. By focusing on a specific mechanic, the event fosters a niche community effort that highlights the enduring impact of Oblivion’s design choices. This specialized approach distinguishes Wheeljam from broader game jams, offering a unique platform for innovation and homage.
