As part of the build-up to the fourth edition of the Óbidos Cultural Game Jam, a set of inspiring Pre-Jam activities took place on April 28th, bringing together students from Lusófona University and Josefa d’Óbidos High School for a day of cultural exploration and creative ideation.
Organized by the Óbidos Hub, the day began with a historical lecture at the town’s Interior Design Centre. Students delved into Óbidos’ rich and layered past - from the Portuguese conquest in 1148 to the enduring Islamic influences on Portuguese customs, culture, and language.
This was followed by a guided walking tour of Óbidos, where participants visited iconic landmarks such as the Castle and the Gate of Our Lady of Grace. Along the way, they uncovered the town’s many myths, legends, and historical anecdotes that continue to shape its identity.
The day concluded with a collaborative “culture storming” session at Josefa d’Óbidos High School. The exercise invited students to brainstorm creative concepts for the upcoming Cultural Game Jam, scheduled for May 13–16. Drawing from their experiences during the “Cultural Storming,” students began shaping ideas that will soon be transformed into games inspired by Óbidos’ unique cultural heritage.