The first half of 2025 showcases the continued growth of African-developed games across most platforms with regards to visibility and consumer engagement. Platforms like Steam and Xbox remain crucial distribution channels, with standout performance from “Dead Take” from Surgent Studios and “Broforce” from Free Lives across multiple platforms.

Steam Platform Trends

Top Games by Wishlist Change – H1 2025
“Dead Take” leads with nearly 10,000 new wishlists, suggesting high global interest for Surgent Studios second title. “Separated” and “Relooted” also show strong momentum with 5,000+ and ~1,800 new wishlists respectively.

This indicates a growing appetite for indie, thematic, and possibly regional content among Steam users.

Top Games by Units Sold – Steam H1 2025
“Viscera Cleanup Detail” and “Broforce” top sales charts with over 30,000 units sold. Other notable performers include “Terra Nil”, a South African-developed title by Free Lives, with ~21,000+ units sold.

These figures affirm that African studios can compete globally when visibility and platform support align.

Xbox Platform Trends

“Broforce” dominates Xbox sales with ~55,000 units sold, massively outpacing other titles. Its sustained success (developed by Free Lives, a South African studio) underscores the enduring appeal of African indie talent.

Other titles like “Desktop Dungeons: Re…” (possibly “Rewind”) also suggest continued traction from African-origin games.

PlayStation Platform Trends

“Broforce” again leads with ~40,000 units, with “GORN” (also by Free Lives) following at 15,000+ units. PlayStation shows a more moderate but steady reception to African titles, especially those with arcade-style gameplay.

Key Takeaways

Free Lives Studio (South Africa) remains the region’s flagship success, consistently topping charts across Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation. Wishlist momentum on Steam hints at a new generation of African-inspired or -developed games rising in popularity (“Dead Take”, “Separated”). Cross-platform performance reveals growing player trust and fanbase for African indie content. Broforce’s multiyear impact continues to inspire other developers across the continent.