The industry is export focused: 95 per cent of UK games development studios export at least some of their games. The sector makes intensive use of technology and many studios invest in R&D.
Some of the best performing games IP globally is generated in the UK. Notable examples include the Grand Theft Auto franchise, developed by Rockstar. Other UK studios have produced major games franchises such as Batman and Lego, as well as individual world-class titles such as RuneScape (developed by Jagex) and the Sniper Elite series (developed by Rebellion).
Video games are increasingly embedded in UK culture and society. Games are one of the UK’s most valuable entertainment media.
According to ERA Figures, games remain the largest of entertainment’s three core sectors, accounting for 42.1% of total entertainment revenues in 2022. Sales grew by 2.3% to £4,664.4m compared with 2021. Games are played in 7 out of 10 households.
Video games are cultural, audio-visual products on par with film, television and animation. They draw on artistic disciplines such as music and art, sometimes involving a narrative. Video games also interact with other media forms, such as inspiring film, television and music.
The UK games development and digital publishing sector is a success story. The introduction of Games Tax Relief in 2014 – a measure which TIGA successfully campaigned for over seven years – will give the UK industry an important boost and enable it to compete on a more level international playing field against overseas.
Yet too many studios in the UK fail. Too many studios struggle to grow. Over two-thirds of studios employ just four or fewer people. If the sector is to achieve its full potential and make a significant contribution to UK employment and growth, then we need to do more. In particular, the UK needs to build an environment that is favourable to start-ups and the growth of more sustainable studios.