In an era where gaming unites diverse cultures, Gbrossoft, an independent studio based in the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria, stands at the forefront of the African gaming landscape. Founded with a vision to blend African themes with global gaming standards, Gbrossoft is redefining narratives and creating a unique space within the industry that resonates with local and international audiences alike.
An Authentic Cultural Footprint
Gbrossoft’s core focus lies in crafting high-quality, story-driven games that draw inspiration from African mythology. As a studio committed to storytelling, they not only aim to entertain but also to educate and communicate the rich tapestry of African narratives. CEO Mudathir Giwa emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries and showcasing Africa’s creative voice globally, ensuring that the cultural heritage of the continent is represented authentically within the gaming sphere.
Standing Out in the Global Market
Their flagship project, Outliver: Tribulation, exemplifies this commitment. This survival horror title blends elements of Souls-like combat with a deep narrative rooted in African traditions. The protagonist, Bolanle Gboyega, finds herself in a mystical realm where ancient powers dictate her fate, embodying both suspense and cultural authenticity.
In 2022, the team received an Epic MegaGrant, a significant endorsement that enabled them to elevate the game’s quality to international standards. This funding was crucial for ensuring that Outliver: Tribulation met the expectations of gamers worldwide, firmly establishing Gbrossoft as a rising star in the competitive gaming industry.
Strategic Expansion Plans
With the ultimate goal of expanding Outliver: Tribulation to platforms such as iOS, macOS, and Xbox, Gbrossoft is strategically positioning itself for growth. The team, comprising just three dedicated individuals, initially focused on PC development due to its accessibility for testing and iteration. Consoles followed, and now, the venture into mobile gaming is imminent, inspired by the growing mobile user base in Africa. The move to mobile not only increases accessibility but also aligns with their mission to engage a wider audience.
Reception and International Appeal
The reception of Outliver: Tribulation has been overwhelmingly positive, earning spots on various YouTube channels’ lists for Top 10 Android releases shortly after its launch. This recognition reflects the studio’s ability to create games that not only appeal locally but can also find a place in the global market, demonstrating that African studios can produce competitive titles.
Funding and Investment Challenges
Navigating the funding landscape has been a challenging journey for Gbrossoft. Mudathir candidly shares that the early stages of funding saw little traction despite numerous applications. The turning point came with the Epic MegaGrant, offering a lifeline that ultimately fueled their project’s completion. This highlights the necessity for visible success stories in the African gaming market to attract more investments and opportunities.
Tapping into the African Gaming Ecosystem
As Africa boasts an increasingly robust mobile user demographic, Gbrossoft recognizes the immense potential for tapping into this audience. They emphasize the importance of building awareness and creating incentives that encourage gaming among the continent’s youth while countering misconceptions of Africa as a low-profit region. Mudathir notes that growth in the gaming community can significantly shift perceptions and unlock untapped markets.
The Role of Technology and Innovation
Emerging technologies, particularly AI and VR, offer exciting possibilities for Gbrossoft. Currently, they utilize AI tools for various aspects, including research and localization, which enhances their workflow significantly. The studio’s outlook posits that these technologies can serve to improve game quality and reshape the player experience, making it more immersive and engaging.
Future Forward: Looking Ahead
As 2025 unfolds, Gbrossoft is not just eyeing new platforms for Outliver: Tribulation but is also diligently preparing to announce their next project. Their forward-looking vision encapsulates a blend of cultural innovation and technological integration, ensuring that they remain a vital part of the gaming discourse.
Gbrossoft’s achievements illustrate a fertile ground for creativity and resilience in the African gaming industry. Their journey is a testament to the fact that with passion, innovation, and commitment to cultural storytelling, African studios are poised for greatness in the global arena.