Empowering Change: The Impact of Purposeful Play

Sea Monster Entertainment, a leading game development studio in South Africa, is driven by a mission to create games that inspire positive change. According to CEO Glenn Gillis, the company's focus on 'impact gaming' has enabled it to work with major brands and create engaging experiences that promote learning and social awareness. With a team of 38 core members and 14 additional developers, Sea Monster has established itself as one of the largest and most versatile studios on the continent, with expertise spanning animation, apps, games, AR/VR, and more. Gillis emphasizes the importance of visual storytelling in transcending cultural boundaries and notes that the studio's projects often tackle complex issues such as mental health and education. One notable example is The Last Maestro, a VR project designed to help individuals suffering from PTSD, which has undergone successful trials at a children's cancer hospital in Oakland. As the chairperson of Games for Change Africa, Gillis is committed to promoting the credibility and profile of the gaming industry in Africa, highlighting its potential for social change and economic growth. Despite the challenges faced by the industry, including a lack of government support, Gillis remains optimistic about the future, citing the unique strengths of the South African market, including its English-speaking population, strong work ethic, and favorable timezone. He also emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry, noting that Africa's rich cultural heritage and creative talent can bring a fresh perspective to game development. With the continent's gaming industry poised for growth, Gillis believes that it is only a matter of time before the sector realizes its full potential and unlocks new opportunities for developers, investors, and players alike.