The Writer's Games The Writer's Workout

Public Registration will open on our website on May 1, 2026.

The Writer's Games is an award-winning annual writing competition open globally. For six consecutive weeks, registered participants create short stories that meet the challenges (Events) announced for the week. Each Event lasts 72 hours and no one knows what that week's challenge might be until the clock starts. The competition opens with an unscored Practice Event to help writers feel more comfortable before the points count. Winners of the following five Events are published in the Writer's Games anthology, 72 Hours. Competition is fierce (but friendly!).

Our team of judges score each entry on a ten-point scale based on the story's expression of the Event's Core Concepts. Judges create private, personalized feedback for every entry regardless of placement to help writers improve. The Writer's Games makes it easy to try new genres and quickly improve your writing in just six weeks.

Registration is required in advance of the competition. Space is limited; plan to register early to secure your spot. This competition is FREE and open worldwide. Important links:
Information (how it works)
Rules
FAQ