Vatar, the Nigerian‑based studio behind the hit social game Lagos Life, has opened its first international markets in Ghana, launching virtual experiences of Accra, Kumasi and Tema on 15 November 2026. The move follows Lagos Life’s rapid rise to over 11 million players in its first month, when the game already expanded from Lagos to Abuja and Port Harcourt.
Shalom Rayhamen, Vatar’s founder and chief executive, said the company’s vision is to build worlds that feel native to their players. “I want players to see their everyday lives reflected in the game,” she told local partners. “For Ghana, we have shaped this launch with Ghanaians, and for Ghanaians, we can’t wait for players in Accra, Kumasi and Tema to live their city’s story on Vatar.”
The Ghana launch was the result of weeks of collaboration with local gaming and creative leaders, including Kwesi Hayford, president of the Esports Association of Ghana (EAG). Hayford highlighted the platform’s potential to bridge cultures and develop digital skills among youth. “Vatar (Lagos Life) is not just another game; it is a platform to connect, play and win, built in Africa for a global audience and grounded in the excellence Africa can envision,” he said.
Players can now explore six interconnected virtual cities across Nigeria and Ghana, travelling between them through a shared digital world that mirrors real‑world streets, markets and landmarks. In Accra, users can shop at Accra Mall or stroll through the historic Osu district; Kumasi players can browse the bustling Kejetia Market; and Tema residents can navigate the harbour city’s waterfront and industrial zones. The game remains free to play in a web browser on phones or computers, with no download required, and is also available on the Google Play Store and soon on the Apple App Store. The platform is open to players aged 18 and over.
Vatar’s rapid growth has been driven by its focus on authenticity and relatability. The studio was founded in October 2026 by Rayhamen, her brother Owen Rayhamen, chief product officer, and COO Anderson Oriahi and CFO Shantel Oriahi. The team travelled to Ghana before the launch to meet with EAG leaders and other stakeholders, ensuring the virtual cities reflect local culture, everyday life and public transport systems.
Looking ahead, Vatar plans to expand its network to other African cities and eventually beyond the continent. The Ghana launch marks the first step in that ambition, bringing a culturally authentic gaming experience to a wider audience and offering a new platform for social interaction, property ownership and virtual commerce.
