Interview
Why is Saudi Arabia buying up the video game industry?
- Saudi Arabia projects the creation of 39,000 jobs within the gaming sector by 2030.
- The strategy includes establishing a major gaming hub comparable to "Disney of video games" with a focus on live experiences and esports.
- Plans to produce games based on Middle Eastern myths and legends are in progress but are estimated to take "some years" to materialize.
- A specific educational initiative involves training students in game design through an agreement with a local women's university.
- The Public Investment Fund anticipates continuing to expand its equity stakes in major industry entities including Nintendo, Take-Two, Capcom, Nexon, and NCSoft.
- Future market growth is expected to be driven by a rising population of 330 million Arabic-speaking gamers, creating demand for region-specific content.
- Industry observers predict an increase in strategic tie-ups as Saudi influence expands and anticipate a gradual development of a distinct "Saudi accent" in games.
- Immediate "Saudification" of existing Western franchises is considered unlikely by experts.
- There is an expectation that sensitive subjects may be avoided in game content as the market's importance grows, mirroring trends previously observed in the film industry regarding China.
- Controlling significant portions of the video game business is viewed as a primary avenue for generating soft power for the region.