What is this?

This project started in late July 2025, where I was playing around with the fantastic Gridiron3 rulebook, to see what could be created from the ruleset. A week or so later, the announcement came from the GMs of G3 that they weren't continuing, and what had started as a "I wonder if I can..." project became a "I can..." project.

What was Gridiron3?

Initially starting as a play by mail game in the 1980s, Gridiron3 became an online game in 2005. I started playing it in 2008, and didn't miss a season from then until it shut down. It was a fantastic game full of history, and it will be very sorely missed.

So you're just copying G3?

While it's true that we're using a lot of the mathematical formulae - because they work, and create "Good Football" - Big Sky Football aims to bring the game into the modern day with new features and some streamlined processes.

What does "Big Sky" mean?

The Big Sky was one of the six leagues in Gridiron3. Each was alphabetically named (Atlantic, Big Sky, Continental etc.). As another group is working on a project called Gridiron4 (and do check them out at Gridiron4.org), I have chosen this name as a tribute to the league that gave me so many years of happiness and so many real life friends.

Will it cost anything?

The game is currently free to play. Coaches are welcome to donate, but there is no in-game benefit for doing so. Due to the huge genoristy of current players, we are currently fully funded for the first four seasons!

In the previews and play by play, who are Rikke and Ahsen?

Rikke and Ahsen are the fictional commentators for Big Sky Football, but they are based on two real life legends of the game. Rikke was my first ever opponent in G3, back in Season 8. She led her team to three divisional championships on trot, and was an big favourite at the live drafts in Bristol. Ahsen joined the game in Season 11, taking over the Phoenix, and leading them for ten seasons, including a Sky Bowl win in Season 16. He won the LFC East every season between Season 16 and 20, including three bowl trips as well. We have had agreement from both Rikke and Ahsen that they are happy for their names to be used in our game, and we are grateful for their consent for this.

When will it be ready?

After a test season running from September - December 2025, the game launched officially in January 2026. We are now in Season 1. Although the game is now 100% playable in its current state, there are lots of plans for further features to be added over time.

What relation are you to G4?

We fully support the development of G4 and look forward to playing it. This is a smaller game in scope, with no desire to run multiple leagues.

I want to play.

That's not a question! We operate a waiting list which you can join by registering an account with us, or if you'd like to know more pop along to Discord join us on Discord.