By MIKA
The Nordic region, with Finland at its heart, has become a global powerhouse in the gaming industry. This is not by chance but the result of a confluence of factors that make it an ideal location for game developers. Here, we’ll explore the reasons why setting up a game developer company in the Nordics, and Finland in particular, is a strategic move supported by statistics, financial data, and market trends.
As of the latest reports, the global gaming market is approaching the $200 billion mark. While it has not yet surpassed this threshold, the consistent year-on-year growth suggests it’s only a matter of time before it does. The industry’s resilience and adaptability have been key factors in its sustained expansion.
1. A Thriving Ecosystem for Innovation
Finland is renowned for its innovative spirit and supportive ecosystem for tech companies. The country has invested heavily in education and technology, creating a fertile ground for creativity and innovation. With a strong demo party culture and events like Assembly, Finland has cultivated a community passionate about gaming and technology. This has led to the development of world-class expertise in game development.
2. Financial Incentives and Support
The Finnish government, through organizations like Business Finland, provides substantial support to the gaming industry. This includes funding for game business development, where part of the project costs are covered without claiming ownership. In recent years, Business Finland has invested around EUR 180 million in the industry’s development projects, with an excellent input-output ratio due to the industry’s growth and foreign investments.
3. Global Recognition and Talent Attraction
Finland’s gaming industry is not only the largest in Europe per capita but also among the largest in terms of turnover. The country’s reputation in the gaming sector attracts international talent, with one in three people working in the Finnish gaming industry being an immigrant. This influx of diverse skills and perspectives further enriches the creative output of the industry.
4. Market Trends and Growth Potential
The gaming industry is the fastest-growing branch of the entertainment industry and Finland’s most significant field of cultural export. Finnish game studios have shown that even small teams can scale up quickly and profitably, with digitally distributed entertainment products that can be scaled exponentially at no additional cost.
5. Success Stories and Industry Giants
Finland is home to several successful game companies that have made a global impact, such as Supercell, Rovio, and Remedy Entertainment. The presence of global tech giants like AMD, Nvidia, EA, Ubisoft, and Unity in Finland is a testament to the country’s strategic
importance in the gaming world.
6. Stable and Supportive Business Environment
The Nordics offer a stable and mature economy, which is crucial for businesses looking for long-term sustainability. The region’s political stability, well-developed infrastructure, and high levels of disposable income make it an attractive market for both developers and consumers of gaming products.
7. Cultural Export and Branding Advantage
Finnish design and quality are globally recognized, and the country’s emphasis on eco-friendly and ethical materials, safety, and gender-neutral design extends to the gaming industry. This cultural branding is a significant advantage for companies looking to differentiate themselves in the global market.
Conclusion
The combination of a supportive ecosystem, financial incentives, a pool of international talent, and a strong global reputation makes the Nordics, and Finland in particular, an ideal location for game developers. The region’s stable economy, cultural branding, and track record of successful gaming companies further reinforce its status as the world’s best place to set up a game developer company. With these compelling reasons, it’s clear why the Nordics and Finland are at the forefront of the gaming industry’s future.
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