About: Are you ready to build the next addictive puzzle game? Puzzle Masters Hackathon 2026 is a national-level innovation challenge that brings together students, developers, designers, AI enthusiasts, and problem-solvers from across India to create impactful technology solutions. This 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. Whether you're building an AI-powered tutor, a smart learning platform, a machine learning solution, or an educational game, this hackathon is your opportunity to transform ideas into real-world innovations. Hackathon Structure: Round 1 – Idea & PPT Submission (Free Registration): This round focuses on the game concept and planning. Participants must submit a presentation (PPT/PDF) covering: Game Title. Problem Statement. Game Concept. Gameplay Mechanics. Target Audience. Core Features. Game Flow. UI/UX Mock-ups or Wireframes. Technology Stack. Development Roadmap. Submissions will be evaluated based on originality, feasibility, creativity, and presentation quality. Only shortlisted teams will advance to the Final Round. Round 2 – Final Project Submission: Shortlisted participants must build and submit a functional game. The final submission must include: Working Game (APK/Web/Desktop). GitHub Repository with source code. Demo Video (2–5 minutes). Final Presentation. README Documentation. Game Assets (if applicable). The game should be stable, playable, and include the features proposed in Round 1. 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. Themes: Participants may create games based on, 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. Any original puzzle game. Submission Requirements: GitHub Repository. APK/Web Game/Desktop Executable. PPT/PDF. Demo Video. README File. Judging Criteria: Innovation & Originality – 25%. Gameplay Experience – 25%. Technical Implementation – 20%. UI/UX Design – 15%. Creativity – 10%. Presentation & Documentation – 5%. Rules & Guidelines: Only original work is permitted. Plagiarism or copied projects will result in disqualification. Round 1 registration is free. Only shortlisted participants are eligible for Round 2. AI tools may be used; however, their usage must be disclosed. The submitted project should primarily be developed during the hackathon. Teams may have a maximum of 5 members. A participant may be part of only one team. Late submissions will not be accepted. Organisers reserve the right to verify project originality. Violation of the rules may result in disqualification. The decision of the organisers and judges will be final. Why Participate?: Showcase your game development skills. Gain hackathon experience. Build a portfolio project. Receive feedback from judges. Network with developers and gaming enthusiasts. Build a complete puzzle game from concept to completion. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced game developer, Puzzle Masters Hackathon 2026 provides an opportunity to learn, build, and compete. Prizes & Recognition: The top-performing teams will be recognised for innovation, creativity, technical implementation, and game quality. Overall Winners: 1st Prize: ₹1,000 Cash Prize. Winner Certificate. 2nd Prize: ₹500 Cash Prize. Runner-up Certificate. 3rd Prize: ₹200 Cash Prize. Second Runner-up Certificate. Special Awards: Best AI Game: Awarded for the most effective use of Artificial Intelligence. Best Mobile Game: Awarded for the best mobile gameplay experience, optimisation, and performance. Best UI & UX: Awarded for the best interface, visuals, and user experience. Participation Benefits: Digital Certificate for all eligible participants who complete the hackathon. Winner and Special Category Certificates. Opportunity to showcase projects before industry professionals and fellow developers. Portfolio project for internships and placements. Practical experience in designing and developing a complete puzzle game. Note: Prize money and special awards will be announced after verification of submissions. The organisers reserve the right to withhold prizes in cases of plagiarism, rule violations, or failure to meet the minimum judging criteria. The decision of the organisers and judges will be final. Turn your idea into a playable puzzle game and compete in Puzzle Masters Hackathon 2026.