Women are reshaping the video game industry in Guatemala, paving the way in technology and entertainment development. During the month dedicated to girls and women in science and technology, we explore the experiences of different women within the digital ecosystem. In this interview, we learn the story of a professional who has played a key role in the creation of video games and the establishment of a community of developers in the country.

What motivated you to pursue video game development?

Since I was a child, I was very curious and fascinated by computers. In university, I decided to specialize in either cybersecurity or video game development, and my graduation project reaffirmed my interest. I realized that it was possible to work on these kinds of projects from Guatemala.

How have Selva Interactive and GameDevGT impacted Guatemala’s digital ecosystem?

Founding Selva Interactive and GameDevGT has meant breaking new ground in local video game development. We successfully published the first Guatemalan video games on consoles and have organized key events for the community, such as the Global Game Jam and GameDevQuest, creating opportunities for students and emerging developers.

What challenges do women face in the video game development industry?

One of the main challenges is the perception that the industry is exclusively for men. However, there are increasingly more initiatives that support and fund projects led by women, helping to balance the landscape and promote inclusion.

What message would you give to young women interested in pursuing a career in technology and video games?

Follow your dreams and don’t let stereotypes limit you. Technology is an incredible tool that allows you to create and transform realities. I encourage you to seek out communities and mentorships, as there are many people willing to support and share their experiences.

The work of Alhvi Balcárcel demonstrates how women can revolutionize the video game industry in Guatemala and beyond. Her leadership and dedication have opened doors for new generations of developers and creators. At the .GT Domain Registry, we celebrate diversity in technology and continue to promote spaces where more women can innovate and build the digital future. If you’re interested in learning more about women in technology, we invite you to read other interviews here.

                                                 

Alhvi Balcárcel, a Computer Science graduate from Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, is a video game developer and co-founder of the studio Selva Interactive. As a professor at UVG, she teaches courses on video game design and programming. She is also the co-founder of the GameDevGT community, where she works to strengthen the video game industry in Guatemala. She has developed titles such as Nanuleu, published on mobile platforms and Steam, and Illuminaria, the first Guatemalan video game to launch on Nintendo Switch.