Moroccan game developers are putting the country’s rich cultural identity at the heart of their creations, merging centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge technology in a push to grow the national gaming industry and promote Morocco on the global stage.
At the second Morocco Gaming Expo, held July 2–6 in Rabat, developers showcased a range of projects that draw inspiration from Moroccan architecture, folklore, and music. The event was backed by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication as part of a wider strategy to turn Morocco into a hub for game development in Africa and the Arab world.
“Historical stories, folklore, architectural designs, and traditional music can inspire games that reflect Moroccan identity and attract players worldwide,” said Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, during the opening session.
Among the highlights was IZI Morocco, an outdoor escape game that lets users explore historical Moroccan sites through an interactive mobile app. Created by Amine Bellahcen, CEO of IZI Explorer, the game leads players through locations such as the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Medina of Rabat, solving cultural puzzles along the way.
“What makes IZI Morocco different is its use of real Moroccan history and culture, with multiple storylines across Rabat and Marrakech,” Bellahcen told Hespress English. In Rabat, players can uncover the history of the Kasbah, explore traditional gastronomy, or delve into the city’s colonial-era architecture. In Marrakech, missions focus on the dynastic history and vibrant souks of the Medina.
The game, developed by a small team of three people and supported by Morocco’s SMIT tourism incubation program, is part of a growing effort to blend cultural tourism with interactive media. Bellahcen said such games could prove especially impactful during major events like the African Cup of Nations or the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco is co-hosting.
Another exhibitor, developer Issam Chentioui, is working on a video game set entirely in Marrakech, designed to introduce global players to the city’s unique urban landscape and cultural heritage.
“I chose Marrakech because it’s a very important tourist city,” Chentioui said. “The style of buildings and architecture there is unique. You don’t find it in other cities.”
Chentioui said his aim is to bring Moroccan cities into gaming worlds that are traditionally dominated by settings like New York or Paris. “We want our cities to be in games too. It’s a way to market tourism and show our culture globally.”
His studio, which specializes in 3D art and game design, is part of a national game development program supported by the government. Chentioui noted that the industry is expanding rapidly in Morocco, offering new jobs and attracting international interest.
“The industry is changing,” he said. “It brings investment, money, and employment. It’s a way for Morocco to become a destination for both game development and culture.”
Minister Bensaid echoed that sentiment, describing the Morocco Gaming Expo not just as a trade event but as a platform to connect talent with opportunity. “This is about building a foundation, combining infrastructure, government support, and creativity to help Moroccan culture reach the world,” he said.
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