Unlocking Africa’s Creative Gaming Potential
By Chris Meredith, SVP Business Development – EMEA at Xsolla.
The global gaming landscape often overlooks Africa, viewing it as a future market rather than a hub of creativity and innovation. However, a closer look at the gaming communities in Cape Town and Johannesburg reveals a vibrant scene filled with imaginative developers pushing boundaries and crafting unique gaming experiences.
While the creativity is abundant, African developers face familiar challenges such as infrastructure, visibility, and funding. The Xsolla Report highlighted that only 59% of developers in Africa receive external funding, underscoring the need for better support mechanisms within the industry.
One of the major hurdles for African developers is accessing global payment systems. Xsolla is stepping in to bridge this gap by offering solutions that cater to local currencies and payment methods, empowering developers to monetize their games and reach a global audience.
Despite the challenges, African developers are finding ways to tailor their games to local realities, creating experiences that resonate with players on a cultural level. This cultural design approach sets African games apart from the mainstream Western industry, showcasing a fresh perspective and storytelling style.
The gaming industry in Africa is not waiting to be the “next big thing”; it is already here, producing original and innovative work that deserves recognition and support. As the global gaming landscape continues to evolve, embracing the diversity and creativity coming out of Africa could lead to a more inclusive and authentic industry.
In a world where gaming is constantly seeking new voices and perspectives, Africa offers a wealth of untapped potential. By providing the necessary pathways for African developers to thrive, the gaming industry can benefit from the fresh ideas and unconventional approaches emerging from the continent.
