A Force to be Reckoned with in the Gaming Industry

Free Lives has become a household name in the South African gaming industry, and its influence extends far beyond its own studio. Every single studio we spoke to at Africa Games Week had a story to share about how Free Lives had helped them, collaborated with them, or simply offered encouragement. When we met with Free Lives managing director Dominique Gawlowski, we asked her about the studio's status as a trailblazer in the industry. Gawlowski explained that while the attention was not something they had sought out, they understood its importance and had accepted their role in supporting the local industry. Free Lives was founded by Evan Greenwood in 2012, with the goal of creating a unique and enjoyable work environment. The studio has since developed a range of successful games, including Broforce, Genital Jousting, and Terra Nil. Its partnership with Devolver has been instrumental in elevating the studio to new heights. Gawlowski emphasized that the studio's focus on creating a positive work environment has been key to its success. This includes offering unlimited leave, profit sharing, and opportunities for team members to attend gaming events around the world. In addition to its own projects, Free Lives is also committed to supporting the local gaming community. The studio co-funds and organizes the Playtopia games event in Cape Town, which provides a platform for developers to showcase their work and connect with others in the industry. One of the studio's most recent initiatives is the Jam Dole program, which provides funding for prototype development. The program is designed to help aspiring developers turn their ideas into playable prototypes, and provides a safety net for those who may not have the resources to do so otherwise. Free Lives is also active in the local gaming community, hosting meetups and game jams through its Maker's Massive initiative. The studio believes in the importance of failing fast and learning from mistakes, and encourages developers to take risks and try new things. While the studio acknowledges the challenges of working in South Africa, Gawlowski is optimistic about the country's potential as a gaming hub. With its unique blend of creativity, innovation, and community spirit, Free Lives is well-positioned to contribute to the growth and development of the local gaming industry. As Gawlowski noted, the quality of life in South Africa is unbeatable, and the studio is committed to making a positive impact on the local community. With its focus on supporting aspiring developers, creating innovative games, and fostering a sense of community, Free Lives is a force to be reckoned with in the gaming industry.