Breaking language barriers: the viability of indigenous languages for video game development in Nigeria
Oluwarotimi Randle, Olanrewaju John Ogundeyi, Abiodun Justin Adelodun, Babatunde Adeyeye · African Identities · 2025
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.