New Games from the Arab World Are Coming to PlayStation

New Games from the Arab World Are Coming to PlayStation

In a powerful move toward inclusivity and regional representation, PlayStation has officially revealed the first four games selected under its MENA Hero Project — a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering independent game developers across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

Launched to spotlight fresh voices and culturally rich storytelling, the project provides selected studios with funding, mentorship, technical support, and access to PlayStation’s global platform. Now, with the debut lineup announced, we’re getting our first real look at the future of gaming from the Arab world — and it’s more ambitious than many expected.

Red Bandits (Saudi Arabia) – Rebellion in a Corporate Dystopia

From Team Agenda in Saudi Arabia comes Red Bandits, a high-octane action-adventure set in a hyper-capitalist future where corporations rule with an iron grip. You play as Stutt, a seasoned thief haunted by a fractured past, who finds himself leading a ragtag rebellion against a monopolistic empire.

The gameplay blends cover-based combat, dynamic heist missions, and a customizable hideout hub where your crew upgrades gear and plans the next big score. With its mix of fast-paced shooting and emotional storytelling, Red Bandits feels like a fresh take on the rebellion narrative — grounded in personal struggle, not just spectacle.

Enci’s Solution (UAE) – A Hand-Painted Journey of Friendship and Discovery

Dubai-based studio Dark Emerald brings us Enci’s Solution, a beautifully crafted 2.5D narrative platformer that stands out for its hand-painted visuals and heartfelt storytelling.

The game follows Ji’we, a young Aeon (a being of light and knowledge), who leaves his secluded village to rescue his closest friend. Along the way, he teams up with Enci, a lost robot packed with forgotten knowledge — part encyclopedia, part reluctant companion.

With over 40 levels, environmental puzzles, hidden challenges, and a world blending organic landscapes with techno-dystopian ruins, Enci’s Solution offers a thoughtful mix of exploration and emotional depth. It’s a game that feels both whimsical and profound — perfect for fans of titles like Ori or Gris.

The Perfect Run (Tunisia) – Time Loops, Choices, and a City on the Edge

Tunisian developer Lanterns Studios delivers The Perfect Run, an action-adventure RPG with a time-loop twist. You play as Quicksave, a hero trapped in a repeating three-day cycle, racing to either save or destroy the futuristic city of New Rome.

The game leans into player agency — every decision affects alliances, faction dynamics, and the timeline itself. With branching story paths, superpowered bosses, and mechanics that encourage experimentation, The Perfect Run feels like a love letter to games like Life is Strange and Dishonored, but with a fresh narrative spin rooted in North African creativity.

Can you break the loop? Or will you rewrite reality itself?

A Cat’s Manor (Bahrain) – A Haunting Tale of Memory and Mystery

From Happiest Dark Corner in Bahrain comes A Cat’s Manor, a genre-blending adventure that mixes puzzles, rhythm challenges, crafting, and combat in a deeply atmospheric setting.

You wake up as a mysterious feline protagonist — stitched hand at the end of your tail, memories gone — trapped in a decaying, spider-infested mansion. As you explore, solve environmental puzzles, and survive eerie encounters, you slowly uncover the dark history of the family that once lived there.

Thanks to 3D audio and full integration with the PS5 DualSense controller, the game delivers an immersive, tactile experience — from the tension of a stealth section to the rhythm of crafting under pressure. Think Little Nightmares meets Cuphead, with a uniquely Gulf-inspired aesthetic.

Why the MENA Hero Project Matters

PlayStation’s message is clear:

“We believe that great games can come from anywhere.”

The MENA Hero Project isn’t just about funding games — it’s about amplifying voices that have long been underrepresented in the global gaming industry. By investing in local talent, Sony is helping to build a stronger, more diverse creative ecosystem in a region full of untapped potential.

These four titles aren’t just games — they’re cultural expressions, blending regional folklore, social themes, and innovative gameplay in ways that resonate far beyond their borders.

What’s Next?

All four games are currently in development and set to launch on PS5 and PC — with no release dates announced yet. While none are exclusive to PlayStation, their inclusion in the MENA Hero Project ensures they’ll receive marketing support and visibility on the PlayStation Store.

This first cohort is just the beginning. If Sony continues this initiative, we could soon see a new wave of Arab and North African developers making their mark on the global stage.

Final Thoughts

The launch of these four titles marks a historic moment for gaming in the MENA region. It’s not just about representation — it’s about opportunity, creativity, and the power of storytelling.

With bold concepts, strong art direction, and narratives rooted in local identity, these games prove that innovation doesn’t only come from traditional gaming hubs. The future of gaming is global — and it’s starting right here.