Smilecoast Games – Indie Game Development Studio from The Gambia, West Africa | Mission, Values & Team
Who We Are
Crafting games from The Gambia for the world.
Our Story
Smilecoast Games is an independent game development studio founded in 2025 by Maximilian Barth in The Gambia, West Africa. The company specializes in building expressive, character‑driven interactive experiences for a global audience.
Our vision is to establish West Africa as a meaningful contributor to the international games industry. We develop games inspired by African style, culture, and creative energy — transforming regional identity into globally engaging entertainment.
Our mission is to deliver fresh perspectives and vibrant, culturally grounded worlds by creating games with a distinctly African aesthetic and vibe. Through high‑quality craftsmanship, strong artistic direction, and a commitment to innovation, Smilecoast Games aims to elevate African creativity onto the world stage.
Our Core Principles
Player First
We build experiences that respect players’ time, creativity, and passion.
Craft from The Gambia
Our roots in The Gambia shape our stories, our worlds, and our studio culture.
Sustainable Creativity
We aim for long-term, sustainable development that keeps teams healthy and inspired.
Our Games
BAENANA
A fast, chaotic arena shooter with fruit heroes, veggie hordes, and a distinct visual identity.
Learn moreLast updated: 06 2026
Our Team
Maximilian Barth
CEO / Managing Director / Chief Developer
Our Impact
Smilecoast Games is built to create more than entertainment — it is built to create opportunity.
Our work aims to strengthen communities in West Africa by opening doors to modern IT careers, creative expression, and sustainable economic growth.
We are committed to empowering young people.
By showing that game development, digital art, programming, and modern technology are real paths to a better future. Through our studio, we want to help create jobs, nurture talent, and inspire the next generation of African creators.
Our impact extends beyond the industry.
By building a flourishing technology‑driven business in The Gambia, we contribute to local development, support education, and help bring global‑level digital skills into the region. Every project we create is a step toward a stronger creative economy in West Africa.
We believe games can improve lives.
They bring joy, connection, and hope — and we want to share that with the world. Through our work, we aim to uplift communities, create meaningful opportunities, and show that African creativity can shine on the global stage.