SALER x SQUID GAME: From Childhood Memories to Digital Reality
Growing up in the mountainous regions of KPK, Pakistan, I spent countless hours playing traditional games that had been passed down through generations. Among these cherished childhood memories, one game stood out—Saler. This wasn't just any game; it was the heart of our playground culture, a strategic battle that could captivate us for hours under the open sky.
Saler was everywhere in our community. We'd draw the distinctive four-shaped board in the dirt, on school desks, even in the sand. I played this game obsessively—morning, noon, and evening. It taught me patience, strategy, and the thrill of outwitting an opponent with nothing but careful movement and foresight.
Years later, while watching the global phenomenon that was Squid Game, a profound realization struck me. The show's genius lay in transforming simple childhood games into intense, strategic competitions. That's when it hit me—why not breathe new life into the games that shaped my own childhood?
Saler was the first game that came to mind, and for good reason. The countless hours I'd spent mastering its intricacies had left an indelible mark on my strategic thinking. But I didn't want to stop there. I expanded the collection to include Tinḳä and Läḳīr, each rooted in the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of South Asia.
This project isn't just about gaming—it's about preserving cultural heritage while creating something universally engaging. Every move in these games carries the weight of tradition, every strategy echoes the wisdom of generations, and every victory honors the timeless appeal of pure, skill-based competition.