Latest news with #Origame


CNA
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- CNA
Arcade operator suspends SG60 carnival game after copyright infringement notice, apologises for 'lapse'
SINGAPORE: An arcade operator apologised on Tuesday (Jul 29) to a games publisher over a "lapse in due diligence" and suspended its carnival game marking Singapore's 60th year of independence, following a copyright infringement notice. In a Facebook post on Monday, Origame accused The Arcade People of "ripping off" artwork from its games. Citing how it had come across a carnival game at City Square Mall, the company alleged artwork from its Kopi King game was "lifted wholesale" by the operator. The homegrown firm, which is known for its Singapore-themed card and tabletop games, claimed that the artwork appeared in an SG60-themed carnival game called Kopitiam Hero. According to pictures posted by Origame on Facebook, Kopitiam Hero uses the same "Sejak 1965!" tagline. It also alleged another piece of artwork was copied for a separate carnival game by The Arcade People and said the experience had left a "bitter aftertaste". In a statement on Facebook, The Arcade People apologised to Origame. It acknowledged the designs for two of its carnival games included artwork taken directly from Origame's games Kopi King and Chope!, and that the design of Kopitiam Hero "closely imitates" the font, style and colour of Kopi King's logo. "These elements were wrongly used without permission and were taken from Origame's website," it said. "This was not just an oversight - it was a lapse in due diligence on our part." The Arcade People added it would take "full and unequivocal responsibility" and that the imitation of design elements had stemmed from not having "proper checks and approvals" in place. Responding to CNA's queries, The Arcade People said it had immediately suspended the game from all rentals and public use until the artwork is replaced. It added it would permanently remove and destroy all materials and props associated with the infringing games, and take "additional steps" by internally reviewing all existing and future artwork usage to prevent such issues from happening again. Origame co-founder and producer Nicholas Pang confirmed with CNA his company had sent a notice of copyright infringement on Monday and noted The Arcade People was "taking responsibility for their mistake". Origame, established in 2019, has released over 20 original games, and its most popular games celebrate local hawker culture. Chope! tasks players with reserving tables with tissue packets, while Kopi King requires players to "snatch" ingredient cards to make coffee shop drink orders. Origame co-founder and designer Daryl Chow told CNA that while the firm has experienced copyright issues overseas for its internationally licensed games, this is the first time their work had been "stolen" in Singapore. Despite this, Mr Pang said Origame would be willing to work with The Arcade People going forward if "they wish to license and adapt our games in a way that property respects the designers and illustrators who created them".

The Star
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Local elements broaden appeal of board games
FOR as long as humans have had time to spare, minds to sharpen and rivalries to kindle, they have played board games. Early iterations were humble affairs that used readily available materials such as stone, wood or shells as tokens and 'arenas' etched in sand. Though a far cry from today's visually striking titles featuring 3D-printed playing pieces and elaborate graphics, the timeless appeal of such games remains. Across centuries and cultures, they have challenged young and old, nurtured social bonds and tapped into our enduring desire to challenge ourselves and each other. This spirit was on full display at the second edition of Asian Board Games Festival Malaysia (ABGFMY) at a mall in George Town, Penang. 'Durian Dash' by Origame gives players an insight into the import of our thorny delight, by sourcing popular varieties from farms while having to be wary of thorny setbacks to become the King of the King of Fruits. Over the course of three days, visitors immersed themselves in over 100 unique titles from 40 different publishers across the region. Every interest and experience level was catered to and the only thing visitors lacked was time to try them all. To incentivise participation, event organiser and Malaysian creative studio Luma and their Singapore-based counterpart Origame even introduced a 'play passport' system. Win or lose, players earned a stamp for each game they tried. Reaching designated milestones entitled them to spin a prize wheel stocked with goodies. Players went from table to table, quickly learning the rules of the different titles in hopes of outsmarting opponents – who were oftentimes complete strangers. Yet within moments, they became friends. Laughter rang out over missteps while groans followed narrow defeats. There were also intermittent cheers as spectators offered encouragement, underscoring the inclusive and immersive nature of the experience. Goh (standing, left) looking on as players get engrossed with the board game 'Kaki Lima' featuring George Town's famous five-foot ways. Remarkably, it all unfolded with scarcely a screen in sight. Mobile phones remained tucked away in pockets and bags as participants were absorbed in the tactile, face-to-face activity. This much-needed respite from digital addiction was welcomed by many, including Amanda Oh, a teacher at an international school who happened upon the event after strolling about the mall. 'Activities like these redirect our attention from screens towards something tangible that can be shared with friends and family. 'I have always enjoyed board games, as they challenge you to think and strategise,' said Oh. Her sentiments were echoed by fellow enthusiast Intan Amalina Mohd Ali, a media lecturer who finds joy in unplugged pastimes. 'In a world where work and life keep us glued to our phones, it was nice to be able to put it aside and just have fun. 'Board games can be both entertaining and intellectually stimulating,' she said, adding that they were also a great way to meet people from all walks of life. 'I am part of a group that plays (board games) every weekend and this event is an opportunity to not only discover the latest titles but also meet the designers,' Intan Amalina said. Pang showing cards for the coffeeshop-based game 'Kopi King' where players are required to make popular drinks, with the winner making the highest in earnings. Ashton Yap brought his two teenage children to the event to remind them that fun times did not necessarily need to be found on a screen. 'When I was growing up, this was how we spent our free time. No screens, just people playing the games face-to-face. 'Kids are so reliant on digital devices nowadays that they barely communicate in person anymore. It could affect their interpersonal skills,' he said. Yap said his children enjoyed the experience at the festival and he would probably get a few of the games for them to play at home. 'Activities like this also teach patience and problem solving.' Regional flavour Billed as the largest English-speaking board game convention in the region, Asian Board Games Festival was introduced in Singapore by Origame in 2019. Luma brought it to Malaysia for the first time as part of George Town Festival 2024, and its return allowed fans to once again 'play their way through Asia'. A group of friends trying a supernatural-themed game made by a Thai publisher during the Asian Board Games Festival Malaysia 2025. - Photos: CHAN BOON KAI/The Star The tagline is a nod to the local or regional subject matter that most publishers incorporated into their titles to create more relatable experiences. Luma founder Goh Choon Ean said modern board games had evolved far beyond the abstract puzzles and random mechanics of the past. Today's titles explored a rich tapestry of cultures, histories, identities and narratives, she said. This thematic diversity has allowed the hobby to grow and attract new fans. Take one strategy title she came up with that invited players to walk around George Town's five-foot ways and navigate obstacles. In Kaki Lima, there are tasks to be completed and lesser-known places to be explored as deeper questions of accessibility and history are raised. Goh, originally from Petaling Jaya in Selangor, said she really enjoyed strolling along these paths when she first moved to Penang, as there were interesting sights down every stretch or corner. 'But you will often find something blocking it, be it a motorcycle, product display, table, chair or even hoarding. ABGFMY, brought for the second time to our shores (above and below), allowed fans of board games to play their favourites, learn about new titles and also meet some of the developers. 'When George Town was first established, these five-foot ways were meant to connect one part of town to another and shield you from the elements. 'They were supposed to be shared public spaces, but accessibility to pedestrians has become an issue. 'I wanted to get people thinking about it in a fun way,' she said of the game's origins. Its success led to a sequel that centred on Malaysia's capital called Kaki Lima: Downtown KL. Goh is also known for a game that brings local wet markets to life, which proved popular during ABGFMY 2025. In Bansan, players assume the role of market stall vendors and have to juggle managing stock and selling various produce with supplying ingredients to hawkers to fulfil their food orders. ABGFMY, brought for the second time to our shores (above and below), allowed fans of board games to play their favourites, learn about new titles and also meet some of the developers. Many quickly realised this was no easy feat – as did others who tried a particular title from Origame focusing on the King of Fruits. Durian Dash gives players the opportunity to act as durian importers, sourcing the best varieties from different plantations while being wary of rotten fruit, which they can drop on opponents' decks in their quest to be the King of the King of Fruits. Another family-friendly game saw visitors playing the role of coffeeshop operator brewing favourites such as kopi-o, teh tarik and Milo dinosaur. Each drink in Kopi King has a requisite list of ingredients and players have to scramble to find them. The game ends when a certain number of drinks are made, with the winner collecting the highest revenue. Locals also loved another title literally made for all diets called Buffet Boss, where they have to stack up miniature pieces of food on a plate, just like they would in real-life buffets. Each morsel carries different point values and the juiciest ones are the hardest to stack, often bringing the whole pile down. Origame co-founder Nicholas Pang attributed the growing popularity of regionally inspired titles to people's natural desire for culturally resonant content. 'In the past, most board games were created in the West and they lacked themes that truly spoke to people in this part of the world. 'Food culture, for example, is deeply embedded in life across both Singapore and Malaysia. 'It is something we take pride in and love sharing with others. 'Perhaps that is why we have seen a resurgence of interest in board games in recent years,' he opined. Another Malaysian publisher collaborated with a television network to develop a board game based on one of its shows. They also released titles based on Malaysian folklore and festive delicacies. Lim Jia Xian, who is a business partner at the company, said cultural specificity not only helped games stand out internationally but also fostered deeper connections among players. 'At global conventions, it is hard to make waves if your game doesn't have a unique premise. 'Staying true to our roots allowed us to create games that locals can relate to while offering foreigners a window into our culture. 'It is especially rewarding when we see younger players' curiosities piqued. 'A well-designed game can spark interest to learn more about the stories, characters or traditions behind it,' Lim added. Expanding demographics The appeal of board games has widened tremendously in recent years. Women make up a significant portion of players globally – drawn in part by diverse themes but also the accessibility and opportunities for social connection. Events like ABGFMY reflect this, with tables filled not just with seasoned enthusiasts but also curious newcomers, couples, parents with children, senior citizens, and groups of friends. Many were first-timers who discovered that modern titles went beyond the classics of childhood. Accounts clerk G. Shantini said she never realised there was such a broad spectrum of genres and subject matter available today. 'I played Scrabble and Monopoly during my school years but lost touch after that. 'Now there are even games that have you playing the role of e-hailing riders and navigating busy city traffic to fulfil orders,' she noted. Wu Xin Yuan, who owns a board game cafe and also imports and exports titles, said roughly 70% of his current clientele were female. 'The industry has created an environment where women feel safe and included and this has slowly broken the stereotype that gaming is a guys' thing,' Wu shared. This growing interest has proven beneficial for Malaysian publishers, who have been able to hire the right talent and as a result, churn out increasingly innovative offerings. 'Go back in time and imported board games used to be luxury items for most families due to their high prices. 'But with so many locally made options now, they have become much more affordable. 'Board games are one of the few products where you pay once and get countless hours of fun. 'Take good care of them and they will last years or even decades,' he pointed out. Wu also found it funny how a hobby once dismissed as child's play had become popular among the elderly. 'Oftentimes, older folk will start playing to entertain their children or grandchildren. 'But very quickly, they also get hooked. Some have remarked that it helps keep their mind sharp. 'In some countries, board games are also used to alleviate mental health issues or delay the effects of neurodegenerative conditions,' he added. Looking back on the event, Goh said the response was really rewarding. 'Last year, there was a steady stream of people sitting down to play at different booths. 'Quite a lot returned this year, in addition to many newcomers who revealed that they last played a board game when they were kids. 'It was a joy to see whole families go from booth to booth and spend meaningful time together. 'This shows that board games are a healthy pastime for everyone,' Goh added.

Straits Times
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
First pop-up comics and games library opens in Punggol Coast Mall
First pop-up comics and games library opens in Punggol Coast Mall SINGAPORE – A new pop-up library with more than 7,000 comics, game-themed reads, graphic novels and board games opened on April 30 at Punggol Coast Mall. Called the Comics and Games Library, it will be open for a year and is a fully self-service facility jointly launched by the National Library Board (NLB), JTC Corporation and local board-game company Origame. This is the first NLB pop-up which features board games. Located at the atrium of Punggol Coast Mall in Punggol Digital District, the library's bright designs reflect the 'fun, adventurous spirit of comics and gameplay', said the NLB on April 30. Patrons can play board games at dedicated spaces within the pop-up, which also allows them to browse and borrow books. The Comics and Games Library will be open for a year at Punggol Coast Mall. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY This pop-up is part of NLB's LAB25 (Libraries and Archives Blueprint 2025) plan – a five-year road map launched in 2021 that aims to encourage Singaporeans to read and become more information-literate. Mr Ng Cher Pong, NLB's chief executive, said in the statement: 'We have been encouraged by the responses to our pop-up libraries, which have appeared in malls, community clubs, and other spaces near where patrons are. With each new pop-up library, we take the opportunity to work with different partners, to bring reading and learning to our patrons in new and engaging ways. 'For the Comics and Games Library, we explored creating a board game space with home-grown game designers, for patrons to learn about Singapore culture through play, and also discover local talents in gaming.' Fans seeking the nostalgia of local comic classics can look forward to a showcase wall featuring titles donated by collectors, including Captain V, Singapore's first full-colour comic. The pop-up is part of NLB's LAB25 (Libraries and Archives Blueprint 2025) plan. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY Patrons can also explore game-themed books like Dune and Ready Player One, as well as learn more about games through a non-fiction collection featuring books on game design history and game strategy. The library features dedicated spaces for adults and children, featuring a range of fan favourite comics such as Bluey, Justice League and Japanese manga collection HunterXHunter. Readers can explore the mother tongue and local comics' eBook collections via the eReads interactive screens. To enter the library, visitors can scan their ID or get a QR code day pass. Visitors can use their NRIC and NLB mobile app to access the library. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY Apart from classic games such as Monopoly and Chess, the pop-up features 11 Singapore-themed board games de sign ed by the co-founder of Origame, Dr Daryl Chow, 43. Dr Chow, who holds a PhD in linguistics from the University of Ottawa, said board games provide both education and entertainment, in line with the roles of the library. He hopes that this collaboration will provide greater visibility for board games. Among the selections at the library, he highly recommends local game Huat's Up?, a game designed around a local favourite dish, lo hei. Local card game Huat's Up? is designed by Dr Daryl Chow. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY Ms Winnie Tan, 27, manager of planning and development at NLB, said: 'Games help to develop strategic thinking and fosters social interaction. It's great to have a space for people to be together to read and play.' The initiative has been well-received by the board-game community, with interest groups and game design companies reaching out to organise workshops and programmes within the pop-up, she added. Ms Winnie Tan is manager of planning and development at NLB. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY One of the library's first visitors were twins Ellery and Averyl Ng, six, who made a beeline for the games. 'We don't really play games (at home), but we do visit the library quite often,' their mother, homemaker Koe Sin Wee, 37, said. She added that her family, who lives in Punggol, will be back again to explore more games. Dr Daryl Chow playing with six-year-old twins Ellery (left) and Averyl Ng in the Comics and Games Library on April 30 ST PHOTO: GIN TAY Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.