Developers can enter without using AI, despite the event’s name
Epic Games has dropped the mandatory-AI requirement from its 2026 Epic AI MegaJam. The company says its original FAQ was a mistake, and developers can enter without using AI.
The clarification concerns entry requirements; Epic is still encouraging AI tools. For a broader perspective, Fix Gaming Channel previously examined AI tools and disclosure in an editorial.
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Epic calls the original requirement a mistake
In a correction posted by the official Unreal Engine account, the company wrote: “Our FAQ originally said you had to use AI for the MegaJam. That’s our mistake.”
The current event FAQ now explicitly says AI is not required. Developers who want to participate using their usual tools can do so, subject to the competition’s other entry requirements.
AI remains part of the event’s programming and prizes. Its $2,500 Walkie-Talkie category rewards a narrative-driven UEFN game featuring characters powered by large language models.
Four days to build, with grants beyond the prizes
Epic announced the jam on October 22, 2026. It runs November 12–15, with the theme revealed on November 11. Participants must build in Unreal Engine or Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN), working alone or in teams of up to five people.
Official Unreal Engine promotional artwork, used for context. Credit: Epic Games.
The event advertises $65,000 in cash prizes, alongside Development Continuation Grants of up to $50,000 per selected team. Those grants are intended to help standout entries continue development after the jam.
Online participation is available, so attending the San Francisco gathering is optional. Developers considering an entry should check the event page and its linked official rules for eligibility and submission requirements.
Related Reading
Editorial: Everyone Uses AI Now. So What Are We Really Disclosing?
Epic Games Launcher Adds Linux Support in New Preview
Written by Ronny Fiksdahl, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Fix Gaming Channel.
Send interview pitches, corrections, tips, or developer stories to contact@fixgamingchannel.com.
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