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Pocket Gamer Connects Jordan is back on November 9th and 10th, 2024, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the world’s fastest-growing games market, MENA.
As part of our MENA coverage leading up to the event, we had the chance to sit down with Rababa Games CEO and founder Hussam Alnatour. In our conversation, Hussam discussed the studio’s focus on mobile gaming in MENA, the integration of AI in games, and their plans for expansion in Saudi Arabia.
PocketGamer.biz: Can you give us an overview of Rababa Games and what you’re currently working on?
Hussam Alnatour: Rababa Games is a pioneering game development studio in the MENA region, known for creating culturally authentic racing games with modern gameplay elements.
We are currently focusing on expanding our flagship title, HAJWALA, and exploring new game genres that appeal to both local and global players. Additionally, we are pushing the boundaries by incorporating cutting-edge technologies like AI and AR into our game development.
How many team members do you have, and where are they located?
We have a diverse team of around 15 employees, all based in Jordan. Our team consists of developers, artists, and creative professionals who work closely together to create high-quality games that reflect the unique culture of the region.
How do you promote collaboration and attract local talent?
We place a strong emphasis on creating opportunities for local talent by partnering with universities and offering internship programs. Additionally, we engage in regional game development events and workshops to identify promising individuals.
“While we don’t yet have an official office in Saudi Arabia, we are actively exploring opportunities to expand there.”
Hussam AL Natour
Our goal is to foster a collaborative environment where both experienced professionals and newcomers can thrive.
Do you have offices in both Jordan and Saudi Arabia? What has been your experience operating in these regions and maintaining company culture?
Currently, our primary operations are based in Jordan, where we have established a strong foundation. While we do not have an official office in Saudi Arabia yet, we are actively pursuing opportunities to expand there, given the rapid growth of the games market in the Gulf region.
In the meantime, we maintain strong relationships with partners and talent across the region. To ensure continuity in our company culture, we focus on virtual collaboration, regular communication, and instilling a shared sense of purpose among our team, regardless of their location.
How do you allocate resources between mobile game development and other projects like motion capture and localization?
Our resource allocation is project-specific and depends on market demand. Given the high demand for mobile games in the MENA region, we prioritize them. However, we also dedicate resources to projects like motion capture and localization to enhance the overall gaming experience. This balanced approach allows us to maintain quality across all fronts.
“The growing demand for locally inspired content in the MENA region presents both an opportunity and a challenge for developers.”
Hussam AL Natour
When deciding on which platforms to launch a new game, how do you make that decision?
Our platform selection is based on the game concept and target audience. For example, the wide appeal of HAJWALA justified its release on both mobile and PlayStation platforms.
Market trends, technical capabilities, and player feedback are all factors we consider when choosing a platform. Our goal is to reach as broad an audience as possible without compromising the gameplay experience.
With over 120 million downloads and 500,000 copies sold on PS stores, how have your games been received internationally outside the MENA region?
While HAJWALA has enjoyed immense success in the MENA region due to its cultural relevance, we have been pleasantly surprised by its reception globally.
“We’ve primarily been self-funded, which has allowed us the flexibility to pursue our vision without external pressures.”
Hussam AL Natour
The game’s unique driving mechanics and cultural flair have appealed to car enthusiasts worldwide, leading to a growing community in markets outside the Middle East, such as Europe and Asia.
How have you observed changes in consumer behavior towards games?
Consumers are becoming increasingly discerning, seeking games that offer immersive and culturally resonant experiences, not just entertainment. The rising demand for locally inspired content in the MENA region presents both opportunities and challenges for developers as the market expands rapidly.
What has been your experience navigating the funding landscape and seeking support for gaming studios in MENA?
While we have primarily relied on self-funding, giving us the freedom to pursue our vision without external pressures, we have noticed a growing interest in the games industry across the MENA region. Governments and private investors in countries like Saudi Arabia and Jordan are beginning to recognize the potential, although the funding landscape is still evolving.
We have managed to navigate the funding landscape independently thus far, focusing on creating culturally resonant content and ensuring sustainable growth.
What are your thoughts on emerging technologies like AI, AR, and VR in gaming?
We are incredibly excited about the potential that AI, AR, and VR hold for the future of gaming. We are actively exploring ways to integrate these technologies into our development process, as AI can enhance various aspects of games, and AR and VR offer new avenues for player engagement.
We believe that these technologies will play a significant role in the evolution of video games, and we are eager to incorporate them into our future projects.
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