Anim8 in 48!
Join the Challenge. Experience the Real-World Pace of Animation Production.
WHAT IS ANIM8 in 48?
The 48-Hour Animation Challenge is a fast-paced animation competition where student teams create a complete 30-60 second animated short in just 48 hours. At the official kickoff, all teams receive the same theme simultaneously. From that moment, they have 48 consecutive hours to develop a story, animate, render, edit, and deliver a portfolio worthy animation.This challenge is designed to push creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and storytelling skills while working under real-world production pressure.
CHOOSE YOUR PATH
All animations must follow one of the two creative pathways inspired by the challenge theme:
Option A - Character Animation
Create a 2D or 3D character-driven animation::
– At least one original character central to the story or mood
– Focus on acting, rigging, and cinematic storytelling
– Story and character performance drive the animation
Option B - Title Sequence/Motion Animation
Create a motion and design driven title sequence:
– The title/logo and visual language carry the story
– Emphasis on motion design, kinetic typography, transitions, and visual storytelling
– Characters are optional and only used in a supporting role
Whichever path you choose, your animation must reflect the theme and demonstrate your creativity, storytelling, and technical skill.
READY TO TAKE ON THE CHALLENGE?
1. REGISTER YOUR TEAM
Register your team of up to 5 students (or participate solo) before our registration deadline.
2. JOIN OUR KICKOFF CALL
During this kick-off call, we will go over rules and announce the theme. This call is a great time for any last-minute questions.
3. LET YOUR CREATIVE JUICES FLOW
Your 48 Hours begins on February 27th at 4PM EST. Your team leader will receive all important details, reminders, and submission guidelines. Be sure to review all rules before the challenge begins!.
3. SUBMIT YOUR WORK
Keep track of time and submit your work by the deadline. LATE SUBMISSIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
CHALLENGE TIMELINE
Team Registration Open Thursday, February 5th, 2026
Registration Deadline Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 11:59PM EST
Kick Off Call Friday February 27th, 2026 3PM
Challenge Submission Deadline Sunday March 1st, 2026 3PM
CHALLENGE RULES
Do's
– Use any animation medium (2D, 3D, stop-motion, experimental, rotoscope, mixed media)
– Use royalty-free music, sound effects, fonts,
– Use raw textures (not UV-mapped for specific models)
3D scan objects you physically create during the contest
–Use any software or equipment available to you
– Submit your storyboard and synopsis with your final animation
– Submit all required materials ON TIME, late submissions will not be accepted
Don'ts
– Do not have more than 5 team members
– Do not use any artwork or content created before the start of the challenge
– Your animation must be at least 30 seconds but not exceed 60 Seconds
– The use of artificial intelligence is NOT Allowed
– You are NOT allowed to use any pre-set animations, pre-made rigs, models, etc. Use any software or equipment available to you
FAQ
