Route to Mecca: This Board Game Aims to Revive Islamic Heritage Through Storytelling and Play

In an era dominated by digital entertainment, few would expect a board game to have the potential to spark a revival of Islamic history and culture. Yet, Route to Mecca, created by Ibrohim Osoba, a passionate da’wah worker from Nigeria now based in Istanbul, aspires to do just that. With its unique blend of education and entertainment—or “edutainment,” as Osoba describes it—the game aims to immerse players in the rich history of Islamic civilization, offering an engaging experience that bridges faith, culture, and play.

A Da’wah-driven Dream

For over five years, Osoba has been deeply involved in da’wah work, spreading the message of Islam to both Muslims and non-Muslims. However, he soon realized that traditional methods often fell short in capturing people’s attention, whereas storytelling seemed to resonate more deeply. This realization led to the creation of Route to Mecca, an innovative way to bring Islamic history to life through the interactive and social medium of a board game.

“What inspired me is that I’ve been giving Da’wah for the past four to five years, and I realized that most people connect more quickly with storytelling,” Osoba shares. The game serves as a way to teach Islamic history and values, engaging players in a fun and educational experience.

The Journey of a Lifetime

Set between the 9th and 16th centuries, Route to Mecca transports players to the golden age of Islamic civilization, when Hajj was not just a spiritual journey but a perilous, life-altering expedition. In the game, players embark on their own journeys to Makkah, facing historical challenges like bandits and natural hardships, while learning about the faith and struggles of pilgrims in the past.

“The main objective of the game is to learn about Islam as you play, particularly the challenges faced by those who undertook the Hajj in earlier times,” explains Osoba. Rather than being a simple race, the game rewards players for accumulating knowledge and wisdom along the way.

Infusing Islamic Heritage into Modern Play

Route to Mecca isn’t just about Hajj; it’s a rich tapestry of Islamic history. The game features references to Islamic scholars and historical figures, such as Ibn Battuta and Ibn Jubayr, and includes lessons on Islamic principles like Zakah and Salah. Players are required to perform these acts during their journey, blending faith and strategy in an engaging manner.

The visuals and architectural designs are meticulously crafted, capturing the grandeur of Islamic civilization at its peak. "We chose the 16th century because it reflects the zenith of Islamic culture, and the game’s artwork reflects this, Masha'Allah,” Osoba notes.

Early Feedback and Future Vision

Though Route to Mecca has only been shown to a select group of people so far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Early testers have praised the game’s educational value, its intricate design, and its ability to make learning about Islamic history enjoyable. With a planned launch in October, excitement is building within the Muslim community.

Osoba’s vision extends beyond mere entertainment. He hopes Route to Mecca will find a place in Muslim homes worldwide, serving as a tool for reconnecting with faith and heritage. “We’ve done our part, and we pray that Allah makes it a source of benefit in both this world and the Hereafter,” he says.

As Muslims, particularly younger generations, seek ways to engage with their heritage, Route to Mecca offers a unique gateway—one that combines the timeless power of storytelling with the joy of play.