The African gaming industry is bubbling with innovation, and one of the brightest sparks is undoubtedly Beyond Service, the upcoming action-adventure game from Goondu Interactive. Helmed by Osinachi-Okoh Leslie, CEO and co-founder, the studio is set to redefine storytelling and gameplay with an experience deeply rooted in African mythology and culture. We had the pleasure of chatting with Leslie, and we’re thrilled to share the insights and excitement surrounding this groundbreaking title.
A Journey Inspired by Greatness
The story of Beyond Service began at Africacomicade, where Leslie and his team were inspired by the amazing work being showcased within the African gaming ecosystem. That spark of inspiration lit the fire for what would become Beyond Service. While development officially kicked off in March 2024, the concept had been brewing since last year, culminating in a prototype reveal at Lagos Games Week.
“We attended Africacomicade last year, and after seeing the amazing work being done in the industry, we felt inspired to take up the challenge,” Leslie shared.
A Soul-like Adventure with an African Twist
At its core, Beyond Service is a soul-like action-adventure game that promises challenging boss fights and strategic combat mechanics. What truly sets it apart, however, is its deep connection to African mythology. From mystical deities to vibrant landscapes, the game brings African culture to life in ways that will resonate with players both locally and globally.
Leslie explained, “The mystic of the game is purely African mythology and deity. It’s about bridging African culture to life in their world.”
The protagonist, Soma, is a karki-wearing hero whose journey is both relatable and awe-inspiring. Without giving too much away, Leslie teased that Soma’s experiences would strike a nostalgic chord for Nigerians while offering an entirely new perspective to players from other parts of the world.
Crafting a Vibrant, Immersive World
One of the standout features of Beyond Service is its West African-inspired world design. Goondu Interactive has painstakingly crafted everything from terrain textures to sound effects to give players an authentic, immersive experience. The visuals, paired with the vibrant soundtrack, promise to transport players to a world both familiar and fantastical.
“We want to give that vibrant, realistic West African feel. Everything from the sound FX to the terrain textures reflects places and vegetation in our everyday life,” Leslie noted.
A Game for Everyone Powered by Passion and Collaboration
While steeped in African mythology, Beyond Service is designed to appeal to a broad audience. During a showcase event, a young girl’s smile as she tackled a level boss was a poignant reminder of the universal joy gaming can bring. “The game will be incredibly fun for everyone to enjoy,” Leslie said.
Goondu Interactive’s team is a blend of highly skilled professionals and passionate creatives. With Goodness Ndukwe leading game programming, Onwe Moses designing captivating UI/UX elements, Akolade Bamidele crafting compelling narratives, and Sophia Abubakar steering business operations, the team is a powerhouse of talent. Their collaboration with Afrochives, a creative writing and short film studio, further strengthens the game’s narrative and world-building.
“Together, we are committed to creating an exceptional gaming experience,” Leslie affirmed.
Challenges and Triumphs; Building Anticipation for the Future
Like many African game studios, Goondu Interactive has faced challenges, from limited resources to the broader hurdles of building a viable AA game in the region. Yet, these obstacles have only fueled their determination. “We have the stories; it’s the resources to make them into viable games that’s lacking,” Leslie reflected.
Partnerships and collaborations, he believes, are essential for overcoming these barriers and unlocking the full potential of African game development.
The positive feedback from events and showcases has validated the team’s hard work and direction. Fans are already clamoring for the release date, and Leslie hinted that Beyond Service is just the beginning. “The Beyond Service franchise doesn’t end here. This will be the beginning of a new world with unpredictable stories,” he teased.
A Message to the Gaming Community
As we eagerly await the full release next year, Leslie left us with a message for fans: “Let us cook! I believe anything worth doing is worth doing well. Best believe it will be the experience of a lifetime. Follow our progress on our socials; it’s worth the wait, trust me.”
On Instagram: @Goonduinteractive
Beyond Service is more than a game; It’s a testament to the creativity, resilience, and passion of African game developers. As the release date approaches, we invite you to join the community and support this incredible project. Together, let’s make Beyond Service a global sensation and a landmark moment for African gaming. Follow Goondu Interactive and stay tuned for updates; the journey is just beginning!
Last Updated on January 8, 2025
