LAMEES OBEIDAT (ABU DHABI)
Nayef Al Bloushi, the creative mind behind Afterwork Games, has been on a mission to blend gaming with Emirati culture since the company’s inception in 2009.
Based in Abu Dhabi and a proud part of AD Gaming, Afterwork Games aims to showcase the rich heritage of the UAE through its meticulously designed games.
With a passion for promoting Emirati culture, Afterwork Games released its debut game in 2010 and has since delighted gamers with a series of immersive experiences. From the adventurous “My Super Kandora” to the adrenaline-pumping “Kickers”, the company has captivated audiences with its unique storytelling and gameplay mechanics.
The latest offering from Afterwork Games is “Balance Party”, a game that intricately weaves elements of Emirati culture into its fabric. Featuring over 50 games inspired by Emirati traditions, “Balance Party” is a celebration of the nation’s heritage.
“Balance Party” transports players to the 1980s, where an alien crash-lands in the UAE, and tries to “steal the earth’s gravity”. Two Emirati children, armed with the mysterious balance boards of alien origin, embark on a mission to restore balance and defeat the intergalactic intruder.
What sets this game apart is not just its captivating storyline but also the innovation behind its production – the balance boards are designed and produced right here in Abu Dhabi.
Afterwork Games recently presented its newest game at the AD Games pavilion during the Middle East Comic Con in Abu Dhabi from February 9-11. The company wooed visitors with a preview of “Balance Party” at the event, which was organised by Informa Connect in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).
Speaking about the game’s progress, Al Bloushi expressed his excitement, stating: “We are currently putting the finishing touches on ‘Balance Party’ and finalising the music. We are hopeful to release the game within this quarter.”
With a commitment to crafting character-based games that resonate with audiences of all ages, Afterwork Games continues to leave an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Through participation in gaming events and initiatives aimed at nurturing aspiring game developers, the company remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant gaming community in the region.