Cameroonian video game studio, Kiro’o Games, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Black African game developer to launch a title on the Xbox platform. The studio’s flagship game, “Aurion: The Legacy of the Kori-Odan,” will now be accessible to the millions of Xbox console owners worldwide.
Founded by Olivier Madiba in 2013, Kiro’o Games has been at the forefront of promoting African culture through interactive storytelling. The studio’s partnership with Microsoft, formalized in early July 2024, marks a pivotal moment for the African gaming industry.
“Aurion: The Legacy of the Kori-Odan,” a game inspired by African legends and traditions, has previously garnered acclaim on mobile and PC platforms. Its introduction to Xbox is expected to broaden its audience exponentially. With over 85 million Xbox consoles in circulation, the potential reach for Kiro’o Games is immense.
Madiba expressed his excitement about the achievement, stating, “It’s the first time a game made in sub-Saharan Africa and by Africans will be present on a gaming console.” He highlighted the significance of this breakthrough, not just for his studio but for the entire African gaming ecosystem.
The success of Kiro’o Games serves as an inspiration for aspiring African game developers. It demonstrates that with creativity, talent, and perseverance, it is possible to achieve global recognition from the heart of the continent.
Beyond “Aurion,” Kiro’o Games has a diverse portfolio including “The Mboa Manager” and “Aurion: Kajuta Gems Fighters.” Madiba’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by accolades, such as securing second place in Total Cameroon’s Startupper Challenge in 2016 and being recognized as one of the 20 most promising Francophone African entrepreneurs in 2023.
As Kiro’o Games continues to expand its reach, the gaming world watches with anticipation for the next chapter in this African success story.