Ethnographic Insights

• 

  The Swahili Treasure: How the Complex Game of Bao Can Teach Gambling Products to Retain Players Ethnographic Insights

  East Africa values skill over speed. Here, the national sport is Bao — one of the most complex and profound variations of mancala in the world. For gambling operators, this is both a challenge and an opportunity. We explore how the philosophy and mechanics of the "game of Swahili merchants" can form the basis for products with incredible depth and retention potential

  December 6, 2025
• 

  Herdsmen and Cows: How the Strategic Game of Morabaraba Can "Capture" the Southern African Market Ethnographic Insights

  Forget standard bonuses. Player loyalty in Southern Africa can be won by embracing a game that simulates one of the region's core values: cattle ownership. We analyze Morabaraba, the local version of "Nine Men's Morris," to understand how this ancient game of herdsmen can become the foundation for creating unique and engaging gambling products

  November 6, 2025
• 

  The Strategy of Kings: How the Ancient Game of Oware Could Be the Key to Player Retention in West Africa Ethnographic Insights

  In the search for new mechanics to boost engagement, the gambling industry often looks to the West. But what if the key to player loyalty and activity lies within their own cultural code? We analyze Oware—an ancient board game known to everyone in West Africa—and explore how its philosophy, psychology, and mechanics can become a powerful tool for gambling products in this unique region

  October 6, 2025