As Africa steps up its battle against malaria, a new and unexpected tool is emerging—video games. Ahead of World Malaria Day, Target Malaria, a not-for-profit research consortium, showcased an innovative educational video game that brings complex genetic science to life in an engaging, interactive format.
Target Malaria: The Game, launched in late 2024 and demonstrated this month in Kampala, Uganda, places players in the role of a lab technician working on genetically modified mosquitoes—a potential vector control solution being explored to help eliminate malaria.
The game introduces players to molecular biology techniques through two core modules: “Microinjection,” where players simulate injecting DNA into mosquito embryos, and “Transgenic Screening,” which involves sorting genetically modified larvae that glow under specific light.
“This isn’t just a game—it’s a capacity-building tool,” says Louise Marston, Senior Research Technician for Target Malaria at the Crisanti Lab, Imperial College London, who conceptualized the game. “We’re showing how digital experiences can spark scientific curiosity and deliver training, even in low-connectivity environments.”
Designed to run on low-spec computers and in areas with limited internet access, the game ensures accessibility for educators and trainers beyond major urban centers. This is critical for reaching rural African communities most affected by malaria.
Africa’s gaming industry is now the fastest-growing in the world, with more than 186 million gamers across the continent—most of them under the age of 30. Recognizing this, the game leverages the popularity of gaming among young people to build scientific literacy and interest in biotechnology.
“Gaming is a language young people understand,” Marston adds. “Target Malaria: The Game uses that energy to teach, inspire, and connect young minds to science in a way that’s fun and impactful.”
The game is part of a broader set of creative outreach tools used by Target Malaria to build trust, transparency, and understanding around gene drive technology. These include “Mozzie Drive” (a card game), “Swarm” (a sound-based art installation), and community theatre performances in countries like Burkina Faso.
In Uganda and elsewhere, the organization hosts regular science cafés and community events to introduce these tools to people living in malaria-endemic areas.
“We encourage universities, schools, and laboratories to use the game not just for awareness, but as a training tool. It brings the lab into the classroom and demystifies complex scientific concepts,” says Jean Birba, Stakeholder Engagement Officer at Target Malaria Burkina Faso.
Available in English and French, the game runs on both high-performance and low-spec systems, with Mac and mobile versions expected soon.
“Engaging stakeholders at all levels is central to our approach to responsible research,” Birba adds. “This game reflects our commitment to transparency, inclusion, and education in the fight against malaria. We hope more people will download, play, and share it.”
How to download “Target Malaria: The Game”
- Download the game from Target Malaria’s page on Itch.io: https://targetmalaria.itch.io/
target-malaria-the-game - Open the downloaded file “
TargetMalariaTheGameInstaller” and execute it. - A pop-up window, The Game Setup Wizard, will appear on your screen. Accept the license agreement and click on Next (several times). If you want to create a shortcut on your desktop, check the relevant box before clicking on “Finish”.
- The Game will automatically launch once the setup is done. Select your preferred language and play!
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