Interview with Conwiro

Today we are interviewing Rafael Martínez, founder of Conwiro.

What inspired you to create Conwiro? How did the idea come about?

The idea came shortly after I returned from an exchange program at Stanford University. When I shared my experience with my friend and co-founder, Javier Domínguez, he showed me some video game prototypes he had been working on. At that moment, we both agreed that we didn’t want to create just any video game studio that would go unnoticed; we wanted to create something that would stand out and leave a lasting impact.

Which aspects of the development process were the most exciting or challenging for you?

Starting a business in our context was an enormous challenge. We were in a country where entrepreneurs were not well-regarded by the government, with an unstable legal framework, no specialized training in video game development, limited access to the internet, and no possibility of using payment platforms or app stores. We also had no access to funding. These were just some of the many obstacles we faced in the early years.

However, one of the most exciting experiences was turning what was just an idea into a reality despite all these obstacles: creating video games that were played by hundreds of thousands of people, positioning ourselves as a leading studio, and becoming the first independent studio in Cuba to monetize with microtransactions. But undoubtedly, the most valuable achievement was building a strong team that has remained united throughout the years.

When we arrived in Spain, the main challenge was to continue the project and make it grow, facing the difficult process of emigrating and starting a new life from scratch. One of the biggest challenges during this phase was building a network of contacts and making our company and work known. For almost a year, I attended every industry event I could to connect with people in the sector.

Moving the project forward, meeting our goals, closing our first investment rounds, securing high-level strategic partnerships, and realizing that with the right conditions, hard work, and sacrifice, dreams can come true, has been incredibly rewarding and exciting.

You recently announced that you are developing the official mobile game for the Kings League. How did this opportunity come about? What has the process been like?

At the end of 2023, we were working on a proof of concept for a new football game we believed had great market potential. From the start, we strategically identified the opportunity to collaborate with former football players, influencers, and eventually with the Kings League. Our original plan was to complete a polished version of the game to present our collaboration proposal to them. However, thanks to a key connection we made through the Talentall agency, we were able to approach the Kings League much earlier than expected.

We prepared a tailored version of the game specifically for the Kings League in just one week, successfully capturing their attention. From that point on, the process to finalize the agreement took almost a year, involving intense legal and business work, all while continuing the development of the game.

What is your vision regarding the impact you want to have on the gaming community or the gaming industry?

Our vision is to lead a transformation in the gaming industry by combining technology, innovation, and digital culture to create sports video games that not only provide entertainment but also establish a dynamic ecosystem where players, influencers, and sports connect in a unique way. We aspire to go beyond the traditional boundaries of gaming by creating immersive experiences that have a cultural impact and redefine how new generations interact with sports in the digital environment.

Advice and Reflections: What is the most valuable advice you have received as an entrepreneur?

Be persistent and never give up, except in strategic retreats that help you move forward.

It is said that entrepreneurs find it difficult to disconnect. How do you disconnect, Rafa? If you manage to, that is.

It’s difficult for me to disconnect. The best way I do it is by practicing sports, especially extreme sports like surfing or skateboarding, which require all my senses to be on high alert. I also enjoy playing video games to relax, although I often end up analyzing designs and mechanics, which, in a way, is still part of the job.

Quick Questions Round

• Movie about entrepreneurship you recommend?

The Founder

• Brand/company that inspires you?

Apple and SuperCell 

• Quote that motivates you the most in your work?

Be persistent and never give up

• If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be?

Steve Job 

• If you could go back in time, would you become an entrepreneur again?

I believe entrepreneurship is deeply tied to one’s personality. If I were born again with the same personality, I wouldn’t have any other choice but to become an entrepreneur again.