Dare to be Digital, the leading international computer game design competition, is calling for teams of talented programmers and artists from UK universities to apply for this year’s competition.

The Dare to be Digital competition is organised and promoted by Abertay University and has become established as the premier talent spotting event amongst industry with the three winning games going forward as the sole nominees for the BAFTA Ones to Watch Award.

The competition will involve dozens of arts and science graduates and undergraduates from all over the world competing at the Dare hothouse‚ at Abertay University in Dundee. Teams will be selected, supported and judged by some of the top games studios from across the UK.

The teams spend 10 weeks over the summer in the hothouse creating a prototype game or other interactive digital entertainment. They receive regular industry visits and are funded with a stipend. Enthusiasts can follow the progress of their favourite games online and interact with the teams via the Dare website. At the end of the 10 weeks the teams face the ultimate challenge - showcasing their games to an audience of thousands at Dare ProtoPlay, part of the Edinburgh Interactive Festival in August.

Think you’ve got what it takes?
If you want to be part of a Dare team, get a team of 5 students and/or graduates together and apply online at www.daretobedigital.com

Regional selection events will be held in different cities across the UK, India and China before Easter. Events will include a full-day of pitching with high industry participation and mini-showcases.

“Being finally selected to take part in Dare to be Digital is a fabulous opportunity and many of our past competitors have gone on to achieve great things in industry or even publish their game. Even if you don’t have a team you should visit the Dare website to find out how you can be put in touch with other potential entrants and form a team entry. Some of the most successful teams are ones where the members have found each other for the first time to enter the event,” said Elaine Russell, Dare Project Manager

You don’t have to be an artist or technical whiz kid to contribute to the competition

In a change to the previous format, Dare to be Digital has opened its doors to members of the public who are being encouraged to submit their game ideas. Almost 50 ideas have been submitted already, coming from people from all walks of life - from high school student to aerospace engineer. Anybody can submit an idea and vote for their favourite online. Games enthusiasts are encouraged to join in the debate and have your say about which game should be turned into a Dare 2009 game. Go to www.DareToBeDigital.com.

Deadline for entries is 15th March 2009.

Dare to be Digital 2009 is sponsored by Abertay University, Turner Broadcasting, amBX, Autodesk, Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Government and Dundee City Council.