A couple of years ago, Adam, my "we can do bad all by ourselves" partner, pitched me an idea for a game about helping queer folks find safe houses within the game. It would be a mobile-based 2D RPG (role-playing game). We left that conversation there, and knowing the two of us, our ADHD brains probably jumped to another idea.
In 2023, I remembered this and we embarked on a journey of creation. Throughout my life, I have worked on a couple of games, mostly in conceptualization and graphics, which come easily to me. So, when I had to transition into a game scriptwriter, it was a challenge I happily took on because what is life without a series of challenges and obstacles? My team and I pitched this idea to Heinrich Böll, and they provided us with funding to create it.
I then approached my good friend, JR Pencil (who has probably illustrated all my children's books and whom I've met all of two times in this life). He handled the character and building designs while I wrote the script. I also invited a game developer from Turkey to develop the game as I worked on the script and graphics.
Writing this script was challenging because we needed to gather a lot of information about the LGBTQ community to include in the game. The game is subversive (due to government restrictions and the illegal status of LGBTQ rights) and serves as an effective way to hide information in broad daylight, allowing those who need it most to navigate through the game to find that information. I guess the saying "If you want to hide something from a Black person, put it in a book" would now translate to "If you want to hide information from the government, hide it in a game."
It took us nine months from ideation to product, filled with many sleepless nights, Red Bull, and tears, but we did it. So, what is Saidia, you ask?
Saidia is not merely a game; it is an immersive narrative experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional gaming. As curators of this digital narrative, we present an interactive exploration into the diverse and nuanced tapestry of LGBTQ+ life in Kenya.
Saidia, a 2D RPG game follows Kaya’s life, a trans woman’s journey as she navigates through the challenges, triumphs, and everyday moments of being queer in Kenya. This is her narrative, her lived reality and we know that each person has their own journey and may not be a complete representation of the community. Through thoughtful curation, Saidia aims to foster empathy and understanding. Saidia serves as a cultural portal, shedding light on the intricacies of life, love, and societal dynamics within the Kenyan context. Players will encounter a mosaic of characters, each representing a facet of the LGBTQ+ community, as they traverse the intricacies of Kaya’s world. The choices made in the game aren’t just branching paths; they are windows into the multifaceted realities faced by individuals in Kenya.
Saidia delves into uncharted territory, inviting players to engage with a narrative that isn’t just entertainment but a powerful vehicle for awareness and education. The game is curated to challenge preconceptions, prompt self-reflection, and inspire meaningful conversations about inclusivity and acceptance.
As curators, we invite players to navigate this digital landscape with an open heart and a willingness to explore the profound stories that lie within Saidia. The game stands as a testament to the potential of digital media as a conduit for social understanding and change. Welcome to Saidia, where the narrative unfolds, and empathy takes centre stage. We hope that this game will serve as a resource tool for everyone who needs the information
Begin the game by creating your character. Choose your avatar and name.
o Engage in various activities within the game to earn money. This can include completing tasks,
participating in challenges, or taking on jobs.
o Skills are essential for personal growth and community empowerment. Go to school and acquire new Skills.
o Clean up the streets and take care of the environment as you make money to progress yourself.
o Show your support for the virtual queer community through events such as speed dating, drag shows, protests, Court cases.
o One of the key aspects of Saidia is helping people in need. Keep an eye out for distress signals or opportunities to help others. Bail and pay fines for the community, educate members of public,
successfully offer shelter to earn rewards and increase your community impact.
o Regularly invest time in enhancing your skill sets. The more skilled you become, the greater your
ability to make a positive difference in the community.
o Invest money in Saccos and your business to grow your capital.
o Self-care is important make sure you constantly take care of yourself.
o Engage in various activities within the game to earn money. This can include completing tasks,
participating in challenges, or taking on jobs.
o Skills are essential for personal growth and community empowerment. Go to school and acquire new Skills.
o Clean up the streets and take care of the environment as you make money to progress yourself.
o Show your support for the virtual queer community through events such as speed dating, drag shows, protests, Court cases.
o One of the key aspects of Saidia is helping people in need. Keep an eye out for distress signals or opportunities to help others. Bail and pay fines for the community, educate members of public,
successfully offer shelter to earn rewards and increase your community impact.
o Regularly invest time in enhancing your skill sets. The more skilled you become, the greater your
ability to make a positive difference in the community.
o Invest money in Saccos and your business to grow your capital.
o Self-care is important make sure you constantly take care of yourself.
Manage your time and resources wisely. Balance your personal development goals with community-related activities to achieve the best outcomes for both.
The game of Saidia doesn’t have a traditional win or lose state. Instead, it’s about continuously striving for personal and communal growth. Your accomplishments are measured by the positive impact you’ve made on both yourself and the virtual community. Remember, Saidia is about the journey and the impact you create. Elevate yourself and elevate the community – your choices matter!
In November 2023, we launched the game in pomp and color, with about 300 people testing it out at the event. We later published it on Android, and we've received amazing and insightful feedback so far.
Then...Ladies, gentlemen and non-binary folks in 2024 we received our first nomination.
And lastly, we have currently developed Saidia GPT.
