Introduction

Welcome to our development blog! We are thrilled to introduce ourselves — the masterminds behind an exciting new game centered around the classic Mancala mechanic. While we have some of the juicier details about the game itself on our website, including screenshots and early concepts, we wanted to take this opportunity to introduce the team making it all happen.

Our team is a blend of talent, creativity, and passion, each bringing unique skills to the table. We've come together to create something truly special, and we can't wait to share it with you.

Mark Nielsen - Game Designer

Mark Nielsen is the creative force and game designer behind our project. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of player experience, Mark has been instrumental in shaping the game mechanics and overall feel of the game. His vision ensures that the game is not only fun to play but also challenging and rewarding.

Mark's journey in game design began at the IT University in Copenhagen, where he met Mathias Nielsen. Together, they've worked on numerous projects, each time pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve.

Mathias Nielsen - Game Programmer

Mathias Nielsen is the technical genius who brings our game to life. As the game programmer, he tackles the complex challenges of game development, turning our ideas into reality through code. His expertise in software development and problem-solving is crucial in creating a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience.

Mathias's collaboration with Mark started during their university days, and their partnership has only grown stronger over the years. His dedication and technical prowess are vital to the success of our project.

Jakob Moestrup - Audio Designer

Jakob Moestrup is the audio magician behind the immersive soundscapes of our game. His work in creating captivating sound effects and a dynamic soundtrack enhances the overall gaming experience, making it more engaging and emotionally resonant.

Jakob met Mark and Mathias during DADIU in 2020, where he worked with Mark and Mathias on a previous game project. His ability to evoke emotion through audio is a testament to his talent and creativity.

Jakob Poulsgærd - Artist

Jakob Poulsgærd is the artistic force behind the visual style of our game. His vibrant and imaginative artwork brings our game's world to life, creating a visually stunning experience for players. Jakob's artistic vision ensures that every element on the screen is cohesive and captivating.

Jakob is the newest addition to the team, having met Mathias while working at IO Interactive. His fresh perspective and creative designs have added depth and beauty to our game.

Why this game?

As Mark was getting beaten by his niece in Kalaha one day, he started wondering if there wasn't a perfect series of turns to play in order to always win, especially with a first-turn advantage. Finding the puzzle in that inspired him to start designing a game that focused on the Mancala mechanic, which led to a small obsession with figuring out new puzzles within the game. This curiosity sparked the initial idea for our game, driving us to explore and innovate within the Mancala framework.

Future Plans

We are thrilled about the future of our game and can't wait to share more details with you. As we continue to develop and refine our project, we'll be posting regular updates on our blog. Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes looks, development insights, and more.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to get to know us. We are incredibly excited about the journey ahead and can't wait to bring our Mancala-inspired game to life. Keep an eye on our blog and website for more updates and announcements!