Abubakar Salim, the creative force behind the upcoming video game 'Tales Of Kenzera: Zau,' has poured his heart and soul into this project as a way to cope with the loss of his father. The game, set to release in April, is a collaboration between Salim's Surgent Studios, Electronic Arts, and members of the popular Critical Role series.
Salim, known for his roles in Assassin’s Creed Origins and Raised By Wolves, founded Surgent Studios in 2019 with 'Tales Of Kenzera: Zau' as its debut release. The game, inspired by Salim's personal journey of grief, combines elements of platforming, exploration, and combat in a Metroidvania style.
The game's narrative revolves around the concept of masks, symbolizing the different facets of grief and the balance between life and death. The masks, Sun and Moon, each offer unique abilities that players can utilize in combat.
Salim drew inspiration from his African heritage, incorporating traditional music and folklore into the game's design. His experiences filming in South Africa further shaped the game's development, exposing him to local culture and spiritual practices.
With 'Tales Of Kenzera: Zau' serving as a starting point, Salim envisions expanding the Kenzera universe across various mediums, including games, film, comics, and TV. He aims to create a rich and immersive world akin to iconic franchises like Lord of the Rings.
The collaboration with Critical Role not only provided mentorship but also laid the groundwork for building a community around the game. Salim's studio, comprising around thirty developers, is poised to deliver a unique and engaging gaming experience.
Players can explore the world of Kenzera when the game launches on April 23rd for PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The demo is available on Steam for a sneak peek into the captivating universe crafted by Salim and his team.
As Salim embarks on this creative journey, 'Tales Of Kenzera: Zau' stands as a testament to his vision and passion for storytelling, blending personal experiences with cultural influences to create a truly immersive gaming experience.
