Power to the People

This game was built as part of the Mzansi Climate Justice Game Jam

The just transition is not merely an environmental issue; it is also more directly an economic and social issue with profound implications for the future of the competitiveness of the South African economy and the livelihoods of its people.  Power to the People is a game about energy justice and the real-world challenges of building a fair energy future. Energy transitions are never neutral - where and how renewable projects are built affects who benefits and who is left behind. As you play, you’ll face critical choices about land use, control of energy systems, and community involvement. Will solar farms uplift local communities or displace them? Will clean energy be accessible to all or remain in the hands of a few?

This game shows that shifting to renewable energy is not just a technical challenge - it's a political and social one. Power, history, and inequality shape every decision. 

You play as Maletsatsi (“Mother of the Sun”), a Black woman leading the transition. Your goal is to build energy systems that balance economy, ecology, and equity — while responding to real social and environmental challenges.

How to Play

Build energy sources across South Africa.

Make choices on land use, community input, and energy type

Balance five goals: economy, ecology, equity, energy access and public satisfaction.

React to protests, praises, or crises based on your decisions.

Game Features

Play as a woman leader in climate justice

Interactive South African map

Real-world inspired energy dilemmas

Justice meter to track your impact

Community feedback and narrative

Team:

Brendan Jackson

Bakang Mputle 

Siphelele Mabaso

Olwethu Shezi

Controls:

• Pan: WASD or Right-Click + Drag

• Zoom: Scrollwheel or Pinch (Touchpad)

• Build: Click and drag over the map