The '1st Seoul Play-up AI Game Challenge,' co-hosted by NC AI and the Seoul Business Agency (SBA), began accepting applications on April 10.

This competition was designed to discover creative game content using Seoul's urban imagery, such as its spaces and landmarks, while providing an innovative opportunity to integrate the cutting-edge generative AI technology 'VARCO' into the game development process.

■ Bringing Seoul's Landmarks into Games... 'Playing Seoul'

The core theme of the competition is 'games utilizing Seoul's spaces, landmarks, and urban imagery.' Participants must use various Seoul IP (intellectual property) elements as game backgrounds or themes, such as ▲DDP (futuristic city/SF), ▲Cheonggyecheon (healing/exploration), ▲Hangang Park (racing/action), and ▲Hanyangdoseong (historical adventure). The main focus of this competition is to provide a 'Seoul-playing experience' that reimagines the city's charm in the digital world.

■ Mandatory Use of NC AI's Generative AI 'VARCO'... Maximizing Development Efficiency

A key feature of this challenge is the mandatory use of NC AI's AI platform, 'VARCO,' during the development process. Participants will be able to experience firsthand how the latest AI technology enhances efficiency and expands creativity in actual game production.

-3D Game Category: At least 50% of core in-game 3D assets must be created using 'VARCO 3D.'

-2D Game Category: All sound assets must be created using 'VARCO Sound' and 'Voice.'

■ Open to All... Exceptional Benefits Including Internship Bonus Points

Applications are open to any team or individual nationwide capable of producing a game within the competition period. The submission window runs from April 10 to May 7. For the preliminary round, participants must submit a game build file, a demonstration video, and a game description document that includes proof of VARCO utilization.

The evaluation will comprehensively assess game completeness, originality, the level of VARCO technology integration, and the suitability of the Seoul urban IP. Winning teams will receive prize money and awards, along with practical benefits such as bonus points for future internship applications in related fields and the issuance of certificates of completion.

Further details about the competition and how to apply can be found on the official website (https://kiweb.or.kr/contest/sba-ncai-2026).