Playful Obscura Opens Applications for 2027 African Arthouse Games Residency: Ethiopia

The Playful Obscura: Arthouse Games Residency Africa 2027 has officially opened applications for its third edition, inviting Africa-based artists to participate in a three-week experimental program in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The residency is designed to foster innovation in non-commercial game development, specifically targeting creators working in arthouse games, digital art, interactive storytelling, and playful media. The program is a collaborative effort involving the Goethe-Institut, A MAZE., Creative HUB Ethiopia, the British Council, and Alliance Ethio-Française.

The residency will select two artists to participate in the program, which runs from January 25 to February 14, 2027. Selected participants receive comprehensive support, including travel arrangements, accommodation, a dedicated workspace, a production budget of up to €1,000, and a €300 stipend. Beyond the immediate production phase, the initiative aims to integrate participants into an international creative network, culminating in a showcase of their work at A MAZE. / Berlin 2027.

Applications for the residency opened on October 16, 2026, and are scheduled to close on November 1, 2026. The selection process emphasizes experimental and artistic approaches to interactive media rather than traditional commercial game production. By providing both financial resources and a platform for international exposure, the residency seeks to elevate the profile of experimental African game creators within the global digital art landscape.