Oluwatoni Ojomo
A Nigerian physiologist and gamer is preparing for one of the most ambitious gaming marathons ever attempted. On July 27, Bolade Oghenevbayenrhe ‘Verde’ Bezi will embark on 48 straight hours of God of War gameplay in a bid to break the Guinness World Record, aiming to start a conversation about mental health in a country that sidelines it in public discourse.
Verde hails from Delta State, Nigeria. Raised in Benin City, she is a dedicated Clinical Physiologist with a degree in Physiology from the University of Benin. Passionate about health and wellness, she channels her expertise into helping others through her professional work. Beyond the clinic, Bolade is an avid reader, football fan, music enthusiast, and devoted gamer, finding joy in immersive stories and soulful tunes.
As her attempt nears, the record-setting marathon is drawing attention not just for its length but for the message behind it.
Mental health is often overlooked, and I believe using gaming can help bring attention to important issues like anxiety and depression.
— Verde
What’s the Record?
Verde will attempt to play God of War: Ragnarök continuously for 48 hours, aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon in a hack‑and‑slash game. The current record stands at 24 hours and 25 minutes, held since November 9, 2017, by Germany’s Peer Bresser and Jimmie Smets. The attempt begins on July 25, 2025, and will be streamed live from her location in Edo State.
Verde will become the first Nigerian woman to officially attempt this particular GWR category.
Why It Matters
In a space often dismissed as escapist, Verde is showing that gaming can be more than entertainment. In Nigeria, where the gaming scene is still growing, female representation is minimal, and mental health is sidelined in policy, media, and everyday life, her attempt is a bold reminder that advocacy doesn’t always have to look like a protest or a conference.
By pushing herself through this intense marathon, she hopes to spark conversations around resilience, burnout, emotional wellness, and safe digital spaces.
Her campaign encourages gamers, students, and young professionals alike to reflect on how we rest, how we connect, and how we heal.
I’m working on my stamina through exercise, maintaining good sleep habits, and practicing long gaming sessions to prepare.
—Verde
When & How to Watch
- Attempt starts: July 25, 2025
- Location: Media centre, Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Stadium road, Benin City, Edo State
- Livestream link: [YouTube: Bezi Esports]
- Follow her journey on Instagram and Twitter: [X: @boladebezi, Instagram: @boladebezi]
- Follow @listsng on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes coverage.
