At Maliyo Games, the future of African game development is bright, especially when seen through the eyes of young talents like Nima and Femi. These two budding game developers, aged 9 and 13 respectively, recently completed a two-week summer internship that took them on an extraordinary journey into the world of making games.
From Sketch to Spectacle
From day one, Nima and Femi’s enthusiasm was noticeable. Guided by Maliyo’s talented designers and mentors, they dove headfirst into the intricate process of game creation. Their mission: to craft paper prototypes of their own unique game concepts. With wide-eyed curiosity and unbridled creativity, they explored the core elements of game design—gameplay mechanics, player objectives, progression systems, and user experience (UX) principles.
The internship,while only two weeks long, was a whirlwind of learning and discovery. Nima and Femi’s ability to grasp complex concepts and translate them into innovative game ideas was nothing short of impressive. Their mentors watched with pride as their young minds tackled each challenge with determination and imagination.
From Concept to Prototype in Two Weeks
During the internship, Nima and Femi displayed remarkable creativity and ingenuity in their game concepts, which were nothing short of inspiring.
Nima’s Immersive Environment
Nima’s game concept showcased her exceptional skills in creating a well-thought-out game environment and user experience (UX). Her game featured daily quests that players needed to complete, adding an element of routine and engagement. Tasks included booking hotel rooms, choosing what to cook, buying ingredients, and renovating a mansion. Nima also incorporated a currency system where players could earn and spend money, adding a layer of economic strategy to the gameplay. Her attention to detail in the meta-space and the overall user experience was impressive, making her game concept both immersive and enjoyable.
Femi’s Strategy-Based Game
Femi’s game was a captivating strategy-based adventure where players guided a mouse through a grid to reach its hole. The path was fraught with obstacles, and players had to choose their route wisely to succeed. Femi’s creativity shone through in the diverse and challenging obstacles he devised. His presentation of the game was equally impressive, demonstrating a clear understanding of game mechanics and player engagement. His strategic placement of obstacles in the level design was a testament to his foresight and ingenuity. The paper prototype he created reflected a deep thought process and meticulous planning, making his game an instant hit among the audience.
A Memorable Showcase
The culmination of their hard work was the presentation day that left everyone in awe. With their parents beaming with pride in the audience, Nima and Femi showcased their game prototypes, explaining the thought process behind their designs and the innovative ideas they brought to life. The room was filled with excitement and admiration as these young creators confidently shared their visions.
Their presentations were more than just displays of creativity; they were reflections of their journey and growth over the two weeks. Every detail in their prototypes spoke volumes about their dedication and newfound understanding of game development.
Reflecting on the Journey
Watching Nima and Femi present their work was a moment of reflection for us at Maliyo Games. It highlighted how far the company has come and the importance of providing opportunities for young enthusiasts. There was a time when such experiences were rare, but now, Maliyo Games is thrilled to be nurturing the next generation of game developers.
Nima and Femi’s journey is a testament to the power of mentorship and hands-on learning. Their passion, creativity, and dedication are clear indicators that they will continue to make significant contributions to the gaming world.
More Than Just a Game: A Stepping Stone to the Future
The Junior Internship program at Maliyo Games is more than just an educational experience; it’s a stepping stone for future game developers. By providing young talents with the tools and guidance they need, Maliyo Games is shaping the future of the gaming industry, one brilliant mind at a time.
For those who share a passion for games and want to learn more about the creation process, Maliyo Games invites you to explore the GameUp Africa program at www.gameupafrica.com. Together, we can build a vibrant community of future game creators.
