Nunaka: My Village

Nunaka: My Village – Where Language Comes to Play is a free educational mobile game that invites children and families into a playful, story-driven Sugpiaq village world where Sugt’stun language and cultural learning are part of every adventure. Designed to support early learning and school readiness, Nunaka helps children practice language, fine motor skills, and problem-solving while exploring activities inspired by life in the Chugach Region of Alaska. Nunaka can also be enjoyed by learners of all ages who want to hear and learn Sugt’stun through play.

Download the app
Nunaka is free to download on:

Watch the trailer

Nunaka: My Village brings a Sugpiaq village to life through language, culture, and playful learning experiences.

What you’ll find in Nunaka
Nunaka blends language learning, cultural knowledge, and early learning outcomes through guided play.

Guided learning with Emaa and Apaa, virtual grandparents who introduce activities and vocabulary
Eight episodes set across a growing village world
Multiple village locations, characters, and mini-games that encourage exploration and discovery
20 mini-games and 12 characters to meet and learn from
Five optional pet companions children can choose to join them on adventures
Customizable avatars, including Sugpiaq regalia
Early learning outcomes that support fine motor skills, attention, memory, and school readiness

Created with community
Nunaka was developed by the Chugachmiut Heritage Preservation Program and FableVision in collaboration with Chugachmiut Birth to Five Head Start. The game was co-designed with cultural and linguistic guidance from Sugpiaq community partners, Elders, and language bearers, and it continues to benefit from ongoing input from youth and community members as it grows.

Nunaka was made possible with support from the U.S. Department of Education.

Recognition
Nunaka: My Village has received international recognition for educational game design and cultural learning, including:

Honoree (Education, Culture & Learning – Apps & Software), Webby Awards, 2026 (Top 25% globally)
Taro Yabe Prize, Digital Ehon Awards (Japan), 2025
Silver, Anthem Awards (Education, Art & Culture—Education or Literacy Platform), 2024
Winner, EdTech Awards (New Product or Service, Pre-K), 2024
Gold Medal, Serious Play Awards, 2023
Best Formal Learning (Elementary), James Paul Gee Learning Game Awards, 2023

Nunaka has also received nominations, including:

Finalist, Kidscreen Awards (Best Learning App – Original), 2024
Nominee, Games for Change (Diverse Voices – New Stories Contest), 2024

Who Nunaka is for:

Children ages 3–5
Families and caregivers
Early childhood educators and classrooms
Language and cultural learning programs
Community members of all ages who want to hear and learn Sugt’stun through play

Privacy
Nunaka: My Village is designed to be a safe learning environment for young children. We do not collect information that directly identifies you or your child. Read the full Nunaka Privacy Statement.

Downloads and resources