Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about hosting, playing, and creating games.
Is Spark Showdown really free for teachers?
Yes! Spark Showdown is 100% free to use. We are a passion project built by educators for educators, supported entirely by optional donations to cover our server costs. There are no hidden paywalls or premium subscriptions.
Do students need to create accounts to play?
No, student accounts are not required. Students join your game simply by entering a game code and a nickname on their device. This keeps the process fast and ensures student privacy.
What technology do I need to host a game?
You only need one computer connected to a projector or screen for the main game board. Students can use any device with a web browser—Chromebooks, iPads, laptops, or smartphones—to act as their buzzer.
How does the AI question generator work?
Our AI tool allows you to paste in any text—like your lesson notes, a history article, or a vocabulary list—and instantly generates a complete Jeopardy-style game board. You can review and edit the questions before playing.
Can I play in teams or does every student need a device?
Spark Showdown supports both! In Individual Mode, every student plays for themselves. In Team Mode, students can share devices or use their own devices to contribute to a team score, which is perfect if you have a limited number of tablets or laptops.
Is Spark Showdown safe for student data?
Absolutely. We do not collect personal identifiable information (PII) from students. Since no accounts are needed for players, we don't store student email addresses or names permanently.
Can I use Spark Showdown in Canada and the USA?
Yes, Spark Showdown works globally! Whether you are teaching in Toronto, Texas, or Tokyo, as long as you have an internet connection, you can host games. The content is entirely customizable to your curriculum.
What happens if my internet disconnects during a game?
Don't worry! If the host disconnects, simply refresh your browser. Spark Showdown saves the game state in real-time, so you can pick up exactly where you left off with scores intact.
Can I save my games and use them next year?
Yes. When you create a host account, all your custom game boards are saved to your dashboard. You can edit, reuse, or duplicate them for different classes or future semesters.
Is this suitable for all grade levels?
Yes. While the interface is sleek enough for high schoolers and adults, the content is 100% up to you. Teachers use it for everything from 3rd-grade math reviews to AP History prep and university lectures.
How can I support the project?
If you enjoy using Spark Showdown, you can support us by 'buying us a coffee' through our donation link. Your contributions help pay for the servers and AI costs that keep the platform free for everyone.
Can I import questions from other platforms?
Yes! We support CSV importing. If you have questions in a spreadsheet or exported from another tool, you can upload them directly to create a board in seconds.