Pocket Gamer Connects Jordan is set to return on November 9th and 10th, 2024, providing valuable insights into the rapidly growing games market of MENA. In anticipation of the event, we had the opportunity to chat with Abdullah Almuhanna, co-founder of Naphora Games Group, a private investment and development company in Saudi Arabia.
Almuhanna shared insights on Naphora Games Group’s mission to become a prominent player in the MENA games industry. He also discussed topics like emerging technologies such as AI and AR, and the evolving consumer behavior towards games.
PocketGamer.biz: Could you tell us more about Naphora Games Group and its current focus?
Abdullah Almuhanna: Naphora Games Group operates as a private investment and development company within the games industry, with a base in Saudi Arabia overseeing four active development studios. Our primary goal is to establish a strong presence in the games sector in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. We function as a game label, offering support in various aspects to developers and enabling them to concentrate on creating exceptional games.
We aim to drive innovation in the local industry, attract talent from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, and globally, offering modern work systems and services in game development, gamification, consultation, PR, marketing, and more. Additionally, we operate a game development academy in partnership with local and international entities to nurture local talent and facilitate their entry into the industry.
How large is your current team at Naphora, and where are they located?
Our team comprises 50 to 70 employees across diverse departments and areas. A significant portion of our team consists of skilled Saudi professionals capable of competing globally, with the remainder being talented individuals from the Arab world and beyond.
Amidst industry layoffs, Naphora continues to expand its team. What factors contribute to this growth during challenging times?
Our approach to game development is focused on smaller teams and shorter development cycles, emphasizing quality and fun. This strategy allows us to adapt to market trends efficiently and manage costs effectively, providing a sustainable model for growth despite industry challenges.
“We don’t believe in developing a game with a development team exceeding 150 employees over more than two years.”
Abdullah Almuhanna
Tell us about the collaboration between Naphora and Raheebeen Studio to create AFRSHO. How did this partnership come about?
Naphora’s partnership with Raheebeen Studio, a graduate of various government incubators, resulted in a successful release, with AFRSHO ranking high on the App Store upon launch. This collaboration signifies a promising venture for both entities, and we look forward to achieving even greater milestones in the future.
How do you select developers or projects for incubation, and what qualities do you look for?
Naphora aims to empower Saudi talent with global expertise, leading us to support and incubate development teams and startups that show promise. Our goal is to elevate the Saudi games industry through strategic collaborations and investments.
“Today’s challenges include developing games that meet the professional and quality expectations of Saudi and global players.”
Abdullah Almuhanna
What changes have you observed in the local games industry and consumer behavior in the MENA region?
The games industry in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region is undergoing significant growth, driven by government initiatives like Vision 2030. This momentum has spurred efforts to enhance infrastructure and stimulate growth within the sector.
What are the current opportunities and challenges facing the games industry in Saudi Arabia and MENA?
The expanding games market presents numerous opportunities for creativity and innovation, attracting individuals keen on being part of this evolving industry. Developing games that meet the standards of Saudi and global players remains a key challenge for industry participants.
What is your take on emerging technologies like AI, AR, and VR in gaming?
We view AI, AR, and VR as promising technologies with ample creative possibilities, though we believe the market for these technologies is still maturing. AI, in particular, provides valuable support in accelerating development processes without being the primary focus in our projects.
“Regarding AI, we use it in our projects to accelerate the development process by assisting our artists, serving as a supportive rather than essential tool.”
Abdullah Almuhanna
What can we expect from Naphora in the second half of 2024?
We have exciting plans for the remainder of the year, culminating in the release of a groundbreaking game in the fourth quarter. This game will feature innovative gameplay elements, online multiplayer modes, and a global launch on PC and consoles. Stay tuned for our upcoming announcement and partnership with HOLODOT, a creative Saudi studio.
