Ep 6 – Made in Africa: Building Bold Games with Ben Myres of Nyamakop

from Press Start Mzansi · host Bandile Phuthuma

In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we speak with Ben Myres, the creative force behind Nyamakop, one of South Africa’s most acclaimed independent game studios. From Semblance, the first African-developed title released on a Nintendo platform, to his latest project Relooted, Ben’s work continues to shape how the world sees African creativity.Relooted is a heist game with a purpose. Built around recovering seventy real African artefacts currently held in Western museums, the game blends stealth, strategy, and storytelling in a powerful narrative about repatriation, cultural justice, and African futurism.Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma and Kieran Reid, this conversation explores how African creators are redefining global gaming and what it takes to build sustainable studios that tell stories rooted in local identity but made for the world.A special thank you to the Goethe-Institut South Africa for supporting this episode and helping to amplify African voices in gaming.What we cover in this episode:The creative journey from Semblance to Relooted• Researching real artefacts and turning history into gameplayBalancing fun, depth, and cultural meaning in game designRepresentation, authenticity, and African accents in character creationBuilding a sustainable studio and navigating the local ecosystemThe business of creativity and staying independent in global gamingAdvice for young developers starting out in AfricaWhat is next for Nyamakop and the future of African game developmentGuest: Ben Myres is the CEO and co-founder of Nyamakop, a Johannesburg-based game studio known for its bold creative voice and commitment to African storytelling. His debut title, Semblance, received international acclaim for its innovative mechanics and art direction. His current project, Relooted, continues that legacy by blending political commentary, history, and design innovation into a deeply African game with global appeal.CreditsHosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming)Co-host: Kieran Reid (Two Name Games)Guest: Ben Myres (CEO and Co-founder, Nyamakop)Cinematography and Editing: Luthando NyuswaAudio Editor: Juliette LoveTechnical Director: Dave MoyoMarketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho TlokotsiPress Start Mzansi is the podcast where innovation, creativity, and play come together to explore the people and ideas driving Africa’s digital revolution.Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @PressStartMzansi for more conversations with the creators shaping the future of African gaming.

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This episode was published on November 10, 2025.

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