Nigerian Studio’s First Video Game is an Action-Adventure Steeped in Yoruba Culture
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Loading... - Arthur Nelson
- 13 Jan 2025
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Nigerian game studio Dimension11 is making waves in the gaming industry with its ambitious first project, an action-adventure game titled Legends of Orisha: Blood and Water. Drawing inspiration from the rich history and culture of the 16th-century Oyo Empire, this game aims to tell African stories through the medium of video games, a narrative approach that has often been overlooked in the gaming world.
Unlike many gaming studios that begin with smaller projects, Dimension11 is setting its sights high. The team is motivated by a desire to represent their culture authentically and to showcase the potential of African storytelling in gaming. Winston Ohunyon, the studio’s creative director and lead narrative writer, explains, “We just wanted to use some of the best 3D technology to tell stories. Our first attempt was to make a short film. It just seemed like games were the next evolution.”
The decision to focus on Yoruba culture stemmed from discussions within the team about the type of game they wanted to create. Ohunyon emphasizes the importance of accuracy in representing the culture, stating, “We made sure that we focused on the accuracy so that we don't shape or form a false identity of the culture that we're trying to represent.”
Legends of Orisha follows the journey of Remilekun, a former soldier from the ancient Oyo Empire, which thrived between 1570 and 1836. The empire, known for its organizational prowess and military strength, became the largest Yoruba-speaking state of its time. As Remilekun seeks solace in retirement, he is drawn back into conflict by a force from his past, compelling him to don his armor once more to protect those around him. Players will engage in action role-playing gameplay, utilizing weapons and combat moves to battle various enemies.
In 2023, Dimension11 was selected to join ID@Xbox's Developer Accelerator Programme, which aims to empower underrepresented creators in the gaming industry. James Lewis, head of the program, praised Dimension11 for its talent and passion, stating, “Dimension11 and Legends of Orisha exemplify the type of teams and projects that we strive to support.”
The team at Dimension11 consists of 24 dedicated employees, operating primarily from Nigeria, with some business strategy members based in Dubai. This remote collaboration allows them to leverage diverse skills and perspectives as they work on the game.
The development of Legends of Orisha has been ongoing since 2023, with hopes to release the game within the year. Although it is part of Xbox’s accelerator program, the studio has the flexibility to release the game on other platforms as well. Temi Afolabi, a member of Xbox’s global expansion team in Africa and the Middle East, noted, “They will be coming to Xbox and we're pleased about that, but it need not be an exclusive.”
While a specific release date has yet to be announced, Ohunyon hints that the game will be ready soon, stating, “It’s not very long from now.” With its unique cultural narrative and innovative gameplay, Legends of Orisha is poised to make a significant impact in the gaming industry and showcase the richness of Yoruba culture to a global audience.
