Viral Lagos Life game nears 2m players, expands to Abuja, Port Harcourt

By Anthonia Okonkwo

A Nigerian-made browser game, Lagos Life, has surpassed 1.8 million players less than a week after its launch, attracting widespread attention online with its simulation of everyday life in Lagos.

Developed by Nigerian software developer Shalom Rayhamen, popularly known online as Shalom or Eliy, the game was launched on Oct. 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day, and allows users to create virtual characters and navigate a simulated version of life in Lagos.

Players can secure virtual jobs, earn and spend naira, rent homes, manage their characters’ needs, socialise with other players and explore locations inspired by everyday experiences in Lagos.

Unlike conventional mobile games, Lagos Life does not require users to download an application, as it runs directly through a web browser and can be accessed on smartphones and computers.

The game’s popularity has grown rapidly since its launch, with TechCabal reporting on October 5 that it had recorded 1,212,477 total players, while more than 71,000 people were online when its dashboard was checked.

Figures later shared by the developer showed that the game had attracted more than 1.8 million players, about 145,000 concurrent players and more than 16.5 million all-time visits, while the developer also reported generating $46,900 in revenue during its first four days, although the figures have not been independently audited.

The virtual world has since expanded beyond Lagos, with Abuja and Port Harcourt reportedly added to the game, while its gameplay draws inspiration from life-simulation titles such as The Sims and incorporates Nigerian transportation, entertainment, businesses and social interactions.

Despite its use of naira and other financial systems, Lagos Life’s virtual currency and items have no real-world monetary value and cannot be withdrawn or transferred outside the game, according to its terms. The game is also restricted to users aged 18 and above.