Rakiza Relive crafts through games

Abstract

Games have played a significant role in Saudi Arabia by strengthening social bonds and promoting friendly relations among people living in the same neighbourhood, helping them to enjoy their spare time in good spirits. These games, inherited from previous generations, have played a vital role in preserving the Kingdom’s culture and heritage. A diverse range of craft products, including prayer rugs, woodworking, weaving, and fabric dyeing, are produced in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia. However, these items are often viewed more as exhibition pieces than as everyday items and information about them is difficult to access. Rakiza utilises traditional games combined with discursive game design to promote and initiate conversations about traditional crafts in Saudi Arabia. Rakiza aims to preserve and enhance the country’s rich cultural heritage through awareness and entertainment, bridging the gap between traditional crafts and contemporary society.