Applications are now open for the third edition of Playful Obscura: Arthouse Games Residency Africa 2027, a fully funded three-week residency in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for Africa-based artists working at the experimental edges of game-making.

The residency is run by the Goethe-Institut in partnership with A MAZE., Goethe-Institut Addis Abeba, Creative HUB Ethiopia, British Council and Alliance Ethio-Française. It will take place from 25 January to 14 February 2027.

Playful Obscura is aimed at artists based in Africa who work in arthouse games, playful media, digital art and interactive storytelling. Its focus is on innovative and experimental approaches to games and interactive art, rather than commercial production.

Two artists will be selected for the three-week residency in Addis Ababa. The programme includes accommodation, travel support, a dedicated workspace, a production budget of up to €1,000 and a €300 stipend.

Beyond providing practical support for artistic production, the residency offers participants an opportunity to develop projects within an international creative environment focused on the intersection of games, technology and contemporary art.

Works developed during the programme will be showcased at A MAZE. / Berlin 2027, connecting the selected artists and their projects with an international audience for independent and experimental games.

Applications for Playful Obscura: Arthouse Games Residency Africa 2027 opened on 16 October 2026 and will close on 1 November 2026. An online information and Q&A session is scheduled for 22 October 2026, offering prospective applicants an opportunity to learn more about the programme.

Artists interested in applying can find further information and application details on the Goethe-Institut website.

Key dates

  • Applications open: 16 October 2026
  • Online information and Q&A: 22 October 2026
  • Application deadline: 1 November 2026
  • Residency period: 25 January – 14 February 2027
  • Showcase: A MAZE. / Berlin 2027

Artists based in Africa and working in arthouse games, playful media, digital art or interactive storytelling can find the full programme details and application information at the Goethe-Institut website.