MDA creates SG50 game apps

Local game developers have created uniquely Singaporean games to celebrate SG50 Singapore.Media Development Authority (MDA) is launching five uniquely Singapore games on 1 July to celebrate SG50 Singapore.Developed by local game developers, the mobile games help users learn more about Singapore’s history, culture and iconic personalities in an interactive way.Four games were selected for funding by MDA. The games are Building the Lion, KANCHEONG!, Kopitiam Saga, My Singapore City and Rickshaw Rush.The fifth game, Satay Club, which was independently developed, was also selected to be part of the SG50 games.The games were selected based on their quality and entertainment value, including how well they showcased Singapore’s unique culture and characteristics.David Ng, CEO of Gumi Asia said, “When I greenlight production for games, the key factors to consider are usually market appeal and how well they capture and sustain audience attention. Most importantly however, it is about the fun factor.”The call for proposals by MDA in June 2014 attracted over 40 entries where industry members were formed as part of the internal judging process.They include David Ng, CEO of Gumi Asia, Mr Oo Gin Lee, Straits Times digital life editor, Albert Lim, member of the games solutions centre’s management committee and Joachim Ng, director of industry operations, MDA.Joachim Ng said, “Singaporeans will be able to enjoy and relate to these one-of-its-kind, fun and engaging games made by our local game talent.”A summary of the five SG50 game titles are as follows:• Building the Lion by Swag Soft: Build your own unique Singapore cityscape in 3D! Learn more about the nation by collecting cards featuring caricatures of famous Singaporeans, and play mini-games built around our heritage, culture, and food.• KAN-CHEONG! Kopitiam Saga by Mojocat Inspired by Singapore’s Kopitiam setting, “KAN-CHEONG! Kopitiam Saga” brings out Singaporean quirks revolving around everyday situations at the Kopitiam through an exciting series of fastpaced arcade-styled-games.• My Singapore City by Ixora Studios A test of speed and memory, "My Singapore City" requires players to earn and build famous Singaporean landmarks, by matching as many tiles, as fast as possible!• Rickshaw Rush by Mojo Forest Race against time and ferry passengers to their destination on a rickshaw before they lose their patience! Meet and discover people along the way who have shaped Singapore’s history and culture, including the person who founded Singapore’s famous chilli crab!• Satay Club by Afzainizam Zahari Relive the old days of “Satay Club”, a popular eating place located at Beach Road in the 1940s. Cook and sell satay to your “customers”, and immerse in the charming atmosphere that had made the first Satay Club a popular eating destination in Singapore for more than half a century.