Breaking language barriers

The viability of indigenous languages for video game development in Nigeria

Bibliographic Data

ID6030976
AuthorsOluwarotimi Randle (0000-0002-7948-1681, University of the Witwatersrand), Olanrewaju Ogundeyi (University of the Witwatersrand), Olanrewaju John Ogundeyi (0000-0002-9170-4534, University of the Witwatersrand), Abiodun Adelodun (University of the Witwatersrand), Babatunde Adeyeye (0000-0002-9485-2444, University of the Witwatersrand, corresponding author)
Year2025
Pages1-16
Publication date2025-10-28
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAfrican Identities (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1472-5843 • E-ISSN: 1472-5851
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/14725843.2025.2577848
OpenAlexW4415619776
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited35

This study explores the integration and potential of indigenous languages in Nigeria’s gaming industry. It evaluates the representation of indigenous languages in Nigerian games, examines the technical and logistical challenges of localizing these languages, analyses the market demand and economic feasibility of games based on indigenous languages, and investigates future innovation opportunities in game design using local languages. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with eight experienced game creators with professional experience in the industry. Systematic Content Analysis (SCA) was applied to analyze interview transcripts. The study found that Nigerian gaming companies are progressively including indigenous languages and cultural themes in their games, indicating a growing trend toward cultural inclusion and linguistic representation within the industry. However, the incorporation of indigenous languages within the gaming sector faces considerable obstacles. The study concludes that technical and logistical challenges are a significant issue in the localization of indigenous languages for gaming

Ethnic group · Indigenous · Indigenous language · Video game · Video game development · Historical Studies in Central America · ICT in Developing Communities · Multilingual Education and Policy

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Open DOI