Puzzle Masters Hackathon 2026 is a national-level innovation challenge organised by Gamnexis, inviting students, developers, designers, AI enthusiasts, and problem-solvers from across India to create impactful puzzle games. The hackathon focuses on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Game Development, EdTech, and Student-Centric Applications. Participants are encouraged to develop innovative projects that solve real-world educational challenges, improve student productivity, or create engaging learning experiences through technology.
Who Should Apply
Open to college students across India from all academic disciplines. Individual participation or teams of up to 5 members. Beginners and experienced developers are equally welcome.
Tracks / Themes
Participants may create games based on any puzzle genre, including but not limited to: Logic Puzzle, Hyper Casual Puzzle, Maze Puzzle, Drawing Puzzle, Physics Puzzle, Escape Puzzle, Path Finding, Tile Matching, Colour Sorting, Parking Jam, Rope Puzzle, Water Sort, Block Puzzle, Gravity Puzzle, Sliding Puzzle, Timing Puzzle, Brain Games, Strategy Puzzle, or any original puzzle game concept.
Format & Timeline
The hackathon is conducted in two rounds:
- Round 1 – Idea & PPT Submission (Free Registration): Participants submit a presentation covering game title, problem statement, concept, gameplay mechanics, target audience, core features, game flow, UI/UX mock-ups, technology stack, and development roadmap. Submissions are evaluated on originality, feasibility, creativity, and presentation quality. Only shortlisted teams advance to Round 2.
- Round 2 – Final Project Submission: Shortlisted teams build and submit a functional game (APK/Web/Desktop), along with a GitHub repository, demo video (2–5 minutes), final presentation, README documentation, and game assets. The game must be stable, playable, and include the features proposed in Round 1.
Judging criteria: Innovation & Originality (25%), Gameplay Experience (25%), Technical Implementation (20%), UI/UX Design (15%), Creativity (10%), Presentation & Documentation (5%).
Prizes
- 1st Prize: ₹1,000 cash + Winner Certificate
- 2nd Prize: ₹500 cash + Runner-up Certificate
- 3rd Prize: ₹200 cash + Second Runner-up Certificate
- Special Awards: Best AI Game, Best Mobile Game, Best UI & UX (certificates)
- All eligible participants who complete the hackathon receive a digital participation certificate.
Eligibility
Open to college students across India. Individual participation or teams of up to 5 members. Students from all academic disciplines are eligible. Beginners and experienced developers are welcome.
About the Organiser
Gamnexis is an India-based organiser that runs student-focused hackathons and innovation challenges, providing a platform for young developers to build real-world projects and gain competitive experience.
How to Apply
Registration is free for Round 1. Submit your idea presentation via the official Unstop event page before the deadline. Shortlisted teams will be notified to proceed to Round 2.
