What an exhilarating month it’s been! First, congratulations to all the participants who successfully navigated the assessment phase of the GameUp Africa Bootcamp. You’ve shown resilience, dedication, and passion. Now, the real journey begins as we dive into the learning phase. With 682 applicants from across Africa—70% pursuing programming, 23% diving into art, and 7% exploring audio design—the energy is next level. We’re especially thrilled to see such strong representation from Nigeria and Kenya.
But wait, there’s more! August was also the month of our special edition Monthly Meetup, held on the 21st in Yaba, Lagos. It was a day filled with learning, inspiration, and a live glimpse into the global gaming scene.
Event Highlights: A Special Edition Meetup
Procedural Generation in AAA Games & Scaling Down for Mobile
Speaker: Antonio Watson, Game Designer, Blizzard Entertainment
Antonio took us through the complex yet fascinating world of procedural generation in AAA games and how these techniques can be adapted for mobile platforms. Mobile games can maintain high performance by simplifying algorithms and reducing content complexity without sacrificing the unique, ever-changing experiences procedural generation offers. This approach enhances replay value, optimizes performance, and streamlines the development process—essential skills for all aspiring developers.
A Virtual Tour of Gamescom 2024
Speaker: Hugo Obi, CEO of Maliyo Games
For the first time, Africa made its mark at Gamescom, the world’s largest gaming event. Hugo took us on a virtual tour, showcasing the incredible African corner. The event was a vivid reminder of the innovation brewing on our continent, inspiring us to dream even bigger for the future. Could Africa host a gaming event on a similar scale? The idea is no longer far-fetched!
Nairobbery Game Showcase
Speaker: Daniel Macharia, Game Developer & Lecturer
Daniel, a Nairobi-based game developer, shared his journey from banking to game development and showcased his latest project, Nairobbery. Set in the vibrant streets of Nairobi, this action-packed game is a testament to how local culture can be beautifully integrated into game design. Daniel’s story is a powerful reminder that passion, not just formal education, is key to success in game development. His game Nairobbery is now available for download, and it’s a must-play for those looking to experience the thrill of Nairobi’s streets.
Looking Forward: September Awaits!
As we wrap up August, we’re excited about next month and can’t wait to unlock new achievements by September’s meet-up. We promise it’ll be packed with more learning, excitement, and opportunities to connect. For all the details and registration, head over to the GameUp Africa website.
Together, let’s continue pushing the boundaries of African game development!
