ESA hosting student game competition, winners will be showcased at E3

The Entertainment Software Association will host a game development competition for college students with the ultimate prize of having their game showcased at E3, the organization announced today.

The Electronic Entertainment Expo College Game Competition is open to all colleges and universities with video game development programs. Beginning on March 15, each institution can submit one game developed by its students. Submissions must include details from the story and assets of a playable game, and must be turned in by April 19.

Five finalists, selected by a panel of game industry and media professionals, will be contacted on May 10. Each will be given display space at E3 as well as other opportunities related to the show, and one overall winner will be announced during the expo.

"The collegiate game competition is an important step for the ESA in encouraging and rewarding students pursuing careers in video game development", said ESA president and CEO Mike Gallagher in a press statement. "Our learning institutions house so much innovation and talent that will shape the future of our industry and ESA intends to honor student achievement and provide a deserved spotlight at E3."

Higher education institutions looking for more information on rules and submission requirements can contact the ESA.