Finalists named for Dare to be Digital

The eleventh annual Dare to be Digital competition has stepped up a gear with fifteen finalists announced for the crucial student talent contest.

The 2010 finalists represent 15 competing universities spread across the UK and Ireland, but also stretching to schools in India, Sweden, China and the US.

The competition sees teams of arts and science students create working game prototypes under the watchful eye of industry design veterans and publisher execs.

Last year’s competition awarded three finalists £2,500 in hand at Edinburgh Festival Fringe, with one team – The Butterflyers – going on to take the coveted Ones To Watch BAFTA prize.

The Butterflyers quickly grew a prosperous reputation, taking interviews from the press and even have the second most powerful man in UK politics pay a visit and play the group’s winning game.

This year over 80 universities across the globe put forth their bid to claim a Ones To Watch award of their own. A list of finalists can be found below.

Event organiser Abertay University has also today revealed it is collaborating with media empire Turner Broadcasting, in a move that will open up a new Adult Swim award for the finalists. The prize will be handed to a team which fulfils criteria for creativity and unique game play.

“The Adult Swim award will seek to recognize a game that captures the spirit of the brand, while also excelling in unique game play,” said Caroline Casey, the director of digital development for Turner Broadcasting EMEA.

She added: “Our involvement with Dare to be Digital also enables us to discover new up-and-coming talent in the gaming industry, which we believe it’s so incredibly important to foster.”

Dare to be Digital project manager Elaine Russell said the organisers are “absolutely delighted” to be working with Turner Broadcasting, in a move that will likely raise the competition’s profile even further.

“It is particularly exciting that they have confirmed their increased involvement just as we unveil what is certain to be the most ambitious line up of finalists we have ever had in Dare,” added Russell.

Dare to be Digital 2010 finalists

Abnormal Creations
Angry Mango
Bazooka Duck
Bears With Jetpacks
Creative Genius
eleMENTAL
Gazhab
Grimnir Games
King of Dice
Ramblin’ Wreckage
Shark on a bike
Team Nevermind
Team Tickle
That Game Studio
Various Artists