Xsolla, a global video game commerce company, has partnered with the Savvy Games Group of Saudi Arabia to promote the country’s Vision 2030 and create economic opportunities for game developers in the Middle East and worldwide. This strategic collaboration aims to generate 3,600 new jobs in the video game industry by 2030, demonstrating a commitment to the growth of the sector not only in the Middle East but globally.
The partnership will focus on several key initiatives, including the establishment of the Xsolla Savvy Game Development Academy, Incubator, and Accelerator programs. The Academy will play a vital role in nurturing talent and promoting game development as a viable career path in Saudi Arabia. This is an essential step toward advancing the kingdom’s vision for the future of games and esports.
Additionally, the partnership will explore opportunities to host industry-leading video game events for both business and consumer audiences. This will provide a platform for networking and fostering connections between local studios and international investors. Furthermore, funding will be provided for game development projects, encouraging innovation and creativity within the industry.
To support the growth of game developers and publishers in the Middle East and the kingdom, Xsolla will establish a regional headquarters office in Riyadh. This office will provide various services, including product development, technology, customer support, and business development. The aim is to help developers and publishers scale and grow their games within the region.
Brian Ward, CEO of Savvy Games Group, expressed his excitement about the partnership, highlighting its significance in elevating Saudi Arabia’s games and esports ecosystem to global prominence. The collaboration between Xsolla and Savvy Games Group will create jobs and build a vibrant, sustainable industry that drives opportunity and creativity for years to come.
Chris Hewish, chief strategy officer at Xsolla, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the shared vision for the future of video games and the aim to empower developers and support the next generation of talent in Saudi Arabia. Hewish also noted that Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a commitment to building a lasting gaming ecosystem, and this partnership marks a crucial first step in empowering a new generation of game developers in the region.
The collaboration between Xsolla and the Savvy Games Group showcases the potential of the Middle East as a rapidly growing region for the esports and gaming industries. By creating economic opportunities, fostering talent, and promoting creativity, this partnership will contribute to the development of a thriving video game industry in Saudi Arabia and beyond.