Kampala Yénkya is a collaborative storytelling game exploring climate futures in a Ugandan context. It is a game of mapmaking and worldbuilding, which invites players to use their imagination—to imagine the future of Kampala, while learning about climate change along the way.
It was created by game designer Jo Lindsay Walton in collaboration with science fiction writer Dilman Dila, environmental scientist Polina Levontin, educator Maurice Ssebisubi and graphic designer Jana Kleineberg.
Oracle Edition
When it is your turn, you are in control of events. Take a card, and respond to the prompt. Add to the map, and add to the story. If you want to make something happen to another player’s character, they must agree to it. Beyond these guidelines, you can do anything. Use your imaginations and have fun…
Kampala Yénkya is freely available to download. The game requires 3-6 players, a standard deck of cards, a few small objects (“story stones”), some pencils and a large piece of paper. It takes ~60 minutes to play, but can take longer…
Deluxe Edition
We have also developed a Deluxe Edition, with specialized playing cards!
The KY Deluxe Edition (printed on demand) contains:
- Custom designed cards.
With the help of narrative prompts, players imagine Kampala in 2060, while also getting quizzed on their climate knowledge. - Inspiration deck.
Additional storytelling and worldbuilding ideas, written by Dilman Dila, with contributions by Polina Levontin and Jo Lindsay Walton. - Cards explaining game rules.
In addition, you can pick your own ‘story stones’ (any dozen or so small objects will do) and print your own booklet, which contains “Further Information” for players who want a more in-depth exploration of themes raised within the game.
There are many other ways to play the game, including hacking it to fit your own ideas. For more information on how to hack the game and additional play ideas, please check the “Kampala Yénkya Activity Book,” “Values in Research,” and also the Resources page.
Imagine Alternatives 