Having spent my university years playing too many computer games (it was better than studying), I always daydreamed that there was a way to turn it into cold hard cash. In swoops Vortex, the no-entry-fee game competition that launched 3 years ago in Toronto to fill the void for budding video game entrepreneurs in Canada.

Vortex is a neat competition because there is no admission free. All that's required is a good idea. The competition features a $2500 cash prize, and some great networking opportunities with industry types and financiers. There are also free 'sessions' with industry speakers, which are all open to the public (it's possible to register for the sessions without entering the contest). This year's events are hosted over at the International Academy of Design and Technology.

Though it's not too late to register, the looming May 31st (5:00 PM) deadline will give a taste of what it's like to work under a tight deadline! Click for more information on the competition and how to register.

As it turns out, a friend of mine won this competition last year, and I didn't realize it until today... 'tis a small world in this newfangled media business. On a related note, I'll be covering the Canadian New Media Awards tonight. I'll post a wrap-up sometime tomorrow.