Avalanche has announced the launch of Build Games, a six-week online builder competition offering a total prize pool of $1 million. The initiative is designed to attract developers working on games, applications, and supporting technology within the Avalanche ecosystem. Open to participants at all experience levels, the competition aims to lower the barrier to entry for teams interested in building on Avalanche while providing a structured environment to move projects from concept to prototype.
What Build Games Is
Unlike traditional hackathons that prioritize short-term output, Build Games is structured to emphasize sustained development over six weeks. Teams begin by presenting a brief overview of their idea and the problem it aims to solve, but the core of the competition centers on actual product delivery. By the midpoint, participants are expected to have a working prototype or minimum viable product, complete with a demo and supporting code.
Throughout the competition, Avalanche provides access to mentors, workshops, and office hours focused on product design, technical architecture, and execution. This approach aligns with the program’s stated goal of encouraging builders to ship real products rather than polished concepts alone. Final evaluations are based on execution quality, usability, ecosystem impact, and long-term potential, with teams presenting their progress during a live showcase at the end of the program.
How to Join the Build Games Competition
Applications for Build Games open on January 20, 2026, and are reviewed on a rolling basis. Participation is limited, and submissions will close once the program reaches capacity. Developers interested in joining can apply through Avalanche’s official Build Games portal.
For builders who have been considering entering the web3 space or returning to development after a break, Build Games is positioned as a structured opportunity to build, test, and launch projects within the Avalanche ecosystem.
Prizes and Long-Term Support
The Build Games competition features a total prize pool of $1 million, with major awards reserved for top-performing teams and additional prizes distributed across categories. Beyond the immediate financial incentives, Avalanche is positioning Build Games as a longer-term onramp into its ecosystem.
Teams that perform well may gain access to ongoing grants, ecosystem partnerships, and continued mentorship after the competition concludes. Avalanche has emphasized that the builder community formed during Build Games is intended to remain active, supporting collaboration and development beyond the six-week timeline.
Why Avalanche Is Investing in Build Games
Avalanche has spent several years developing its infrastructure, tooling, and grant programs to support developers. Build Games builds on that foundation by offering a more visible and structured pathway for new projects to emerge. The competition is intentionally open-ended, allowing teams to work on ideas they are personally invested in, rather than forcing projects into predefined tracks.
This approach reflects a belief that meaningful products are more likely to come from builders solving problems they care about. Projects can range from web3 games and consumer applications to developer tools, infrastructure, and experimental onchain mechanics. Early-stage ideas are accepted, provided teams demonstrate a clear intent to continue development beyond the competition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Avalanche Build Games?
Build Games is a six-week online builder competition created by Avalanche to support developers building web3 games, applications, and tools on the Avalanche network.
Who can apply to Build Games?
The competition is open to builders at all stages, including solo developers, early-stage teams, and more experienced projects. Both new and existing ideas are eligible.
Do projects need to be games?
No. While the competition highlights games, projects can also include applications, developer tooling, infrastructure, consumer products, and experimental web3 concepts.
What is the total prize pool for Build Games?
The total prize pool is $1 million, including a $100,000 grand prize, additional top placements, and category-based awards.
When do applications open?
Applications open on January 20, 2026, and are reviewed on a rolling basis until capacity is reached.
What support do participants receive during the competition?
Participants receive access to mentors, workshops, office hours, and feedback sessions, along with visibility within the Avalanche ecosystem.
