Begin with something you know
An interesting game world does not have to begin with a distant fantasy. It might start with a familiar street, a childhood game, the rhythm of a market, or a story shared at home. Specific details give a setting character. Keep a notebook of sounds, phrases, spaces, and interactions that you would like a player to experience.
Let the story shape the rules
Storytelling is more than dialogue and background art. Think about what a player chooses, what they share, and what the game asks them to notice. A game about cooperation can make progress depend on helping another character. A game about discovery can reward attention rather than speed. The rules are another way to express what matters in your world.
Create with care and curiosity
Africa contains many cultures and perspectives; no single game can speak for all of them. Be specific about the experience you are drawing from. When your work reaches beyond your own knowledge, listen to people connected to that story, seek permission where appropriate, and credit collaborators. Thoughtful collaboration can make the work richer and more grounded.
Invite people into the world
A personal story can welcome players who have never encountered its setting before. Give them a clear way to explore, enough context to understand their choices, and room to discover details for themselves. You can build from a local perspective while creating an experience that resonates far beyond it.