A young Mearns games designer has put herself in the running for BAFTA recognition in the latest chapter of a remarkable run of success for her school.
Morayo Onyia, 12, has become the third pupil in four years from Lathallan at Johnshaven Lathallan School to be nominated for an award in the BAFTA Young Game Designers event for her Viking-inspired creation.
As the only pupil from Scotland to reach the finals in the 10 to 14 years category, Morayo will find out via a YouTube livestream later this week if her idea will be transformed into a multi-platform game by professional gaming designers.
Morayo’s concept, Griffindeim was inspired by her work in classics, history and geography.
It is described on the BAFTA Young Gaming website as being: “A game based on the nine worlds in viking religion, where you can defeat befriend monsters called Barics and giants.”
She said: “While sitting in class listening to my teacher Mr Andersen talk about Norse mythology, I thought, ‘Hey, this would make a really cool game’.
“I linked this to what I had been learning about our environmental footprint in geography and created Griffindeim.
“I am ecstatic that my hard work has received so much recognition. I’ve really enjoyed this project, especially creating and drawing the characters.
“If my game becomes reality, that would be outstanding. It would be a dream come true.”
Her achievement in the 2020 event follows on from the success of Lathallan pupils Campbell Mearns and Benjamin Cranston in recent years in the YGD competition.
The finals are normally held in London but will be staged remotely due to Covid-19 restrictions.
