OpenArena is a community-produced first-person deathmatch game built on GPL-licensed idTech3 technology. Designed for fast-paced multiplayer combat, it supports a range of game modes, including Free For All, Capture The Flag, Domination, Overload, and Harvester, and uses the OpenGL 1.x graphics API. The project offers the game as a free, open-source experience, with downloadable releases and patches available through its website.

The community contributes maps, characters, models, music, and other game content. OpenArena’s Community Mappack, for example, provides additional maps and is distributed under GPLv2-compliant terms. The 0.8.8 release added campaign tiers, maps, a player model, music, gameplay options, and technical fixes, alongside features for server configuration such as map rotation and respawn waves. The website also provides community forums, server information, media, and development resources. Its contributors welcome help from programmers, artists, mappers, voice performers, and musicians, reflecting the project’s collaborative approach to creating and improving the game.