Government set to boost local video game development sector

The government is committed to expanding local video gaming sector from a paltry 0.1% of the total gross domestic product (GDP) to 1% in 10 years’ time, parliamentary secretary for digital innovation Silvio Schembri has vowed.

Schembri this week visited the headquarters of Exient, developers of popular games such as Angry Birds and Formula 1.

He reiterated the government’s intent to shape Malta into a video game development destination.

There are 15 video game companies currently operating in Malta, collectively employing about 200 employees. The government’s commitment is expected to generate up to 2,500 new opportunities in this sector, Schembri said.

He acknowledged that game developers need industry-led, sector-specific expertise and support to be able to grow.

“Government is fully committed to expanding this industry further and push Malta’s name to the forefront within the global community.”

Schembri announced that the Cabinet had recently approved Malta’s eSports and Video Game Development Strategy, which will be published in the coming days.

“As a Government, we are fully committed to seeing this industry thrive, presented as a pathway for future generations to pursue a career in this sector and see it fully incorporate into our already strong ecosystem,” he said.

“We are not looking at the cost-effectiveness element, we’re looking at providing a holistic ecosystem that pays companies to operate from here.”

Speaking to Business Today, Exient CEO Dave Hawkins said that there was a rise in the number of skilled professionals transitioning to the game development business.

“We are one of the most desirable spaces to work at, game development is a fun thing to do,” he said.

Hawkins said the government’s plans to introduce sector-specific courses at post-secondary and tertiary level were definitely a step in the right direction, adding that Malta’s pool of skilled professionals was an added incentive for them to relocate to the Maltese Islands.

“Talent was one of the main reasons why the company decided to move to Malta five years ago,” he said.

“What we have heard today is a step in the right direction. While I look forward to seeing it come to fruition, I believe that Malta could become something special for the gaming development sector.”

Founded in 2000, Exient has partnered with industry giants such as Activision, Ubisoft, Sony, and Microsoft to develop iconic video games such as FIFA, Madden, Need For Speed & The Sims.

Another part of Exient’s success originates from its partnership with Rovio, developing and continuing to service Angry Birds Go and Angry Birds Transformers, both titles recording huge commercial success.