Portals has officially launched Blocktoberfest Game Jam 2025, a four-week browser-based competition where creators can build horror-themed games and 3D scenes without writing code. The event is running from September 26 through October 24 and features a total prize pool of $50,000. The jam is hosted in partnership with Atari and Block of Horror, two brands bringing their respective game catalogs into the mix.
Blocktoberfest 2025 Game Jam
This year’s Blocktoberfest is designed to bring together developers, artists, and horror fans in one shared event. All projects must be built directly in the browser using the Portals platform, which uses drag-and-drop tools and visual scripting rather than traditional programming. The aim is to lower barriers to entry while still encouraging creativity and polish in horror-themed experiences.
Participants can create either playable browser games or 3D art showcases. Each project must be tied to one of the officially supported game titles provided by Atari or Block of Horror. Submissions are due on October 23, and the judging period will run from October 25 to October 30.
Blocktoberfest 2025 Game Jam
Three Main Tracks
Blocktoberfest offers three main tracks. The Atari track lets participants reimagine retro horror and sci-fi titles such as Haunted House, Dracula: The Undead, Shark Jaws, and Alien Brigade in a modern 3D format.
The Block of Horror track features indie-driven horror titles like CARRION, HELL FROZEN OVER, and HOW I BROUGHT ABOUT THE END OF THE WORLD, each with a distinct tone and style. Finally, the Artist Track is geared toward 3D artists who want to showcase visual storytelling rather than full gameplay. These entries can be static or walkable scenes but are judged on design, atmosphere, and creative presentation.
Prizes, Awards, and Judging
The $50,000 prize pool is divided across all tracks. Both the Atari and Block of Horror tracks award $10,000 for first place, $7,500 for second, and $2,500 for third. The Artist Track offers $2,500, $1,500, and $1,000 for the top three spots.
In addition to the main prizes, there are smaller community awards based on voting and standout elements. These include the Scare Award for the best horror moment, the Shocker Award for the best twist or reveal, the Creativity Award for the most original use of licensed material, and the Community Award for the most popular entry overall.
Entries will be scored by judges between October 25 and October 30. Games will be evaluated on gameplay design, atmosphere, use of licensed IP, performance, and creativity. Visual projects in the Artist Track will be judged on design quality, layout, originality, and technical execution.
From October 31 to November 3, the showcase will go live with all qualified submissions available for the public to explore online. This event coincides with Halloween week and will also feature the announcement of prize winners.
Final Thooouts
Portals is a browser-based creation platform often described as the “Roblox of web3.” It allows anyone to create interactive spaces and 3D experiences without downloading software or writing code. Users build through a drag-and-drop editor and can add game logic through a visual interface. Portals also supports importing models and instantly publishing projects online.
By hosting Blocktoberfest, Portals is positioning itself as a collaborative hub for both established game developers and new creators who want to experiment with building interactive projects.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Blocktoberfest Game Jam 2025?
Blocktoberfest Game Jam 2025 is a four-week online competition where creators use the Portals platform to build browser-based horror games or 3D art scenes. It is organized in partnership with Atari and Block of Horror.
When does the event take place?
The jam runs from September 26 to October 24, 2025. Judging will follow from October 25 to October 30, with winners revealed during a public showcase from October 31 to November 3.
Who can participate?
The event is open to everyone, from professional game developers to first-time builders. No coding is required since Portals uses no-code tools and a visual logic editor.
What are the prizes?
The total prize pool is $50,000, divided across three tracks: Atari, Block of Horror, and Artist Track. Community-voted mini prizes are also available.
Which game titles are allowed?
Participants must choose from a set list of licensed titles provided by Atari and Block of Horror. Examples include Haunted House, Alien Brigade, CARRION, and HELL FROZEN OVER.
How do entries get judged?
Games are judged on use of IP, gameplay design, atmosphere, performance, and creativity. Artist Track entries are judged on visual design, storytelling, and originality.
Where can I view the showcase?
The public showcase runs online from October 31 to November 3, 2025. Fans and participants can explore all submissions directly in the browser on the Portals platform.
