NJD Games Expands Hajwala Racing Franchise Under Baraa Odeh
NJD Games, founded in Riyadh by Salman Almutiri and Waleed Alqahtany, has evolved from a two-person operation into a team of about ten, with investment support from Impact46. The studio's flagship mobile title, KOH, has surpassed 5 million installs, thanks to its focus on social gameplay, customization, and community engagement. The recent launch of Hajwala Corsa 2 in January 2026 marks a significant step in the studio's ongoing efforts to expand its reach beyond the MENA region.
Creative director Baraa Odeh shared insights on the studio's journey and its commitment to building a community-first gaming experience. NJD Games aims to capture the essence of Hajwala driving culture while appealing to a global audience. While the studio's primary audience has been in the MENA region, Drift Toon has initiated its push towards broader international appeal, receiving positive feedback from driving game enthusiasts.
KOH's retention strategy emphasizes community engagement and player expression, incorporating continuous updates, live events, and responsive feedback loops. The game's monetization strategy focuses on customization, allowing players to personalize their in-game identity while maintaining a balance with gameplay enjoyment. This approach has been further refined in Hajwala Corsa 2, which prioritizes content quality and long-term player engagement.
Although earlier plans included SeaCatFishing, NJD Games has pivoted its focus to enhance its driving and Hajwala portfolio, particularly following the successful launch of Hajwala Corsa 2. The local games industry in the MENA region has seen rapid growth, with increased investment opportunities and a demand for higher-quality gaming experiences. Odeh noted that players are now looking for games that reflect regional culture while adhering to global standards.
Why it matters
Saudi Arabia's gaming push through Vision 2030 has positively influenced NJD Games, providing better access to talent and funding, facilitating collaboration and growth within the industry. As the studio looks ahead to the rest of 2026, its priorities include expanding Hajwala Corsa 2 with new features and updates, while actively seeking to grow its community and explore future opportunities aligned with its vision.
Original source
PocketGamer.biz
