Vibe Code Animated Maps

Overview

The Vibe Code Animated Maps hackathon is an invite-only event for a select group of builders, storytellers, and creative coders interested in exploring the capabilities of AI-driven motion graphics for map animations. Participants will utilize plain English to "vibe-code" sophisticated travel animation videos, 3D route maps, flight animations, and moving maps without needing traditional motion graphics software. This focused event, limited to approximately 10 participants, aims to provide an intimate environment where every submission and prompt receives dedicated attention. It is powered by VYDEO, an AI vibe-coding interface, and features the Mappi API, a tool known for creating smooth animated roads and flight maps, enabling participants to create customizable, AI-generated animated maps. The hackathon offers a dedicated VYDEO interface integrated with the new Mappi API, allowing participants to experiment with GPS coordinates, summon icons, render 3D models, and animate various vehicles. This event is among the first to offer an end-to-end map animation AI workflow, emphasizing the craft of prompt writing as a key skill for creating compelling animated maps.

What to build

Participants must build an animated map video using the dedicated VYDEO hackathon interface, which leverages the Mappi API to render the map animation. The video must primarily feature a map animation and can explore various themes such as travel animation videos (real or imagined trips with animated roads, routes, and stops), flight animations (showing planes tracing paths with altitude, weather, or 3D terrain), 3D route maps (for hikes, marathons, road trips, or commutes, potentially importing GPS coordinates), train map sequences, car animations (following routes with custom icons, POIs, and callouts), or moving map intros for various media. The core requirement is using VYDEO as the primary tool, with freedom to integrate additional npm libraries if allowed by the interface.

Prizes

Key dates

• Hackathon Start DateAug 29, 2026
• Judging begins2 days after the submission deadline

Eligibility

Participation is invite-only and limited to individuals who are above the legal age of majority in their country of residence. Participants from all countries and territories are eligible, with the exclusion of standard exceptions.

How to enter

1. Confirm your invite for this capped event.
2. Wait for the dedicated VYDEO hackathon interface link, which will be sent on the day of the hackathon.
3. Claim your VYDEO credits, distributed on the day of the hackathon via email and event channel.
4. Start vibe-coding your map using the provided interface.
5. Iterate and refine your prompt, as prompt quality is a key judging factor.
6. Submit your project before the deadline.

Submission requirements

• The full prompt used inside the VYDEO hackathon interface to generate the video, submitted as plain text.
• The final video of your animated map, uploaded or linked from your Devpost project page.
• A short project description (one or two paragraphs) detailing the concept and how the prompt was effective.
• (Optional but encouraged) A second prompt iteration showing the evolution of your prompt, plus any GPS data, custom assets, or 3D models used.

Judging criteria

• Smoothness and polish of the animation
• Creative and effective use of icons, labels, and 3D models
• Use of imported GPS coordinates or custom data
• Storytelling and emotional impact of the final video
• Quality, clarity, and inventiveness of your prompt

Sponsors & partners

Resources

• Full Rules
• Registration Link
• VYDEO App
• Mappi Studio
• Code of Conduct