If you've been looking for a video game that treats the Christian faith with genuine warmth and respect, Sainthood is a breath of fresh air. Created by Nigerian-Canadian filmmaker and game developer Bisong Taiwo, this cozy strategy game puts you in the role of a postulant arriving on a mysterious island off the coast of the Kingdom of Kongo, with 33 days to serve your community, grow in faith, and uncover the island's secrets.^1
Each day, you balance your time between earning Faith Points through prayer and spiritual activities at the convent, and Charity Points through building construction, delivering resources, and volunteering at the hospital, school, and orphanage. The game draws on African culture and its intersection with Catholicism, weaving together resource management, story-rich character interactions, and a meditative soundtrack inspired by Gregorian chant.^2 At night, evil spirits called the Shetani emerge to test your faith, adding a layer of tension to the otherwise cozy experience.
As Taiwo told Microsoft Game Dev: "I wanted to make a small game that avoids the negative tropes sometimes associated with religion, and instead focuses on a positive, cozy experience that inspires players to serve and nurture their local communities."^3 The game also features 25 unlockable stained glass paintings of real saints from around the world, a dedicated Prayer Mode with the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet, and multiple endings shaped by your choices.^1
Why Christians Love It"This game is simple but beautiful. Each day offers prayers, reflections, meditations, and Catholic education. It's perfect for mindfulness and offers a unique 'pray to play' aspect."^4
"This is a supremely addictive little game. It's so cozy, the artwork is delightful and easy on the eyes, and in some weird undefinable way, restful."^5
"The story is good, and the information provided for saints is accurate. A great heartwarming game. A cozy play indeed."^6
Notable- 95% positive on Steam with 48 reviews; featured in The Catholic Register^7
- Available on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, iOS, Android, and itch.io^1
- Built with support from Xbox's ID@Xbox Developer Acceleration Program^3
- Taiwo is also a filmmaker — his short film Mary's Way of the Cross is on Prime Video^8
- Privacy-focused: no data collected on either iOS or Android^4
- Actively maintained with regular updates, including new prayers in Prayer Mode^4
