Afrika is a simulation and adventure video game developed by Rhino Studios and Natsume, and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation 3 console. Released in Japan on August 28, 2008, and in North America on October 6, 2009, the game places players in the role of a photojournalist tasked with documenting African wildlife in their natural habitats.
Gameplay
The core gameplay of Afrika revolves around photography and exploration. Players are given assignments from a research base, which typically involve photographing specific animals, behaviors, or locations within various national parks and reserves across the African continent. Using an in-game camera, players must track down the subjects, position themselves for the best shot, and capture high-quality photographs. The quality of the photos is judged based on factors such as framing, focus, and the animal's posture or activity.Successful completion of assignments earns the player money, which can be used to purchase new camera equipment (lenses, bodies, tripods), vehicles, and other supplies. Different equipment allows for better shots in varying conditions, such as telephoto lenses for distant animals or wide-angle lenses for landscapes. The game encourages a patient and observational approach, as animals behave realistically within their environments. The PlayStation Eye camera was optionally supported for certain features, though not essential for gameplay.
Setting and Story
The game is set in a realistic portrayal of various regions within Africa, featuring diverse biomes such as savannas, forests, and wetlands. While there isn't a strong overarching narrative in the traditional sense, the game's story unfolds through the progression of assignments. Players begin as a novice photojournalist and gradually gain experience and reputation, unlocking more challenging tasks and access to new areas and animals. The objective is to contribute to a comprehensive wildlife database, documenting the rich biodiversity of the continent. The game emphasizes factual accuracy in its depiction of animals and their behaviors, aiming for an educational experience.Development
Afrika was initially conceived with high ambitions, showcased at E3 2006 with impressive graphical fidelity for the time. The game aimed to leverage the PlayStation 3's hardware to create a realistic and immersive wildlife experience. Development was handled by Rhino Studios, with Natsume also contributing. The game was notable for its focus on a non-violent, exploration-based gameplay loop, contrasting with many other titles of its era. The development team undertook extensive research, including visiting actual African wildlife reserves, to ensure the authenticity of the game's environments and animal behaviors.Reception
Upon its release, Afrika received mixed to positive reviews. Critics generally praised the game's stunning visuals, particularly the realistic depiction of wildlife and environments, which were considered among the best on the PlayStation 3 at the time. The educational aspect and the unique premise of a photography simulation were also highlighted as strengths.However, the game also drew criticism for its slow pace, repetitive mission structure, and limited interactivity outside of the photography mechanic. Some found the gameplay loop to become monotonous over time, and the controls were occasionally noted as cumbersome. Despite these criticisms, Afrika was recognized for offering a distinct and relaxing experience, appealing to players interested in nature and photography. It remains a somewhat niche title, but one remembered for its visual ambition and unique subject matter on the PlayStation 3 platform.