The report ”Understanding the value of a European video games society” commissioned by DG Communications Networks, Content, and Technology (DG CNECT) of the European Commission and conducted by Ecorys and KEA, delves into the impact of video games on European society. The study examines the economic, social, and cultural contributions of the European video game industry, aiming to deepen our understanding of this sector within the European Union (EU). The EU’s video games market, which generated €23.48 billion in 2022, is a significant part of the Cultural and Creative Industries. Despite its expansion, challenges persist, including recruitment difficulties, regulatory complexities, and funding gaps for smaller companies. Inclusion and diversity have improved, but more efforts are needed. The report emphasizes the need for strategic support and policy changes, highlighting the Digital Skills and Job Coalition’s role in fostering growth, competitiveness, and cultural impact within the EU’s video game sector.
Digital Skills and the European video game industry
One significant focus of this study is to shed light on the challenges and issues faced by the video game industry and its workforce, areas that have often been overlooked in previous research. Central to the findings is the critical role of digital skills in the evolution of the European video game industry. The report underscores the importance of having a workforce with consolidated digital skills, emphasizing how these skills are not only driving economic growth but also shaping the cultural and social fabric of the European Union. Recognizing the significance of digital skills in this context is paramount, as it highlights the need for strategic investments in education and training programs, ensuring the sector’s continued innovation and competitiveness on the global stage.
The Digital Skills and Jobs Coalition’s role in the European video game industry
The EU’s video games sector faces challenges due to a lack of skills among its workforce. To tackle this issue, it’s crucial to enhance the quality and relevance of education to meet industry demands. Collaboration between educators and industry professionals is vital for aligning education provisions with industry needs. Companies in the sector should invest in education and training to address talent shortages. Representative bodies and larger companies must facilitate cooperation between education and the industry, gathering continuous insights on skills requirements. In the final recommendations, the report invites the video games sector to be more engaged in existing education and skills initiatives, like the Digital Skills and Jobs Platform. In particular, it highlights how active engagement with existing EU initiatives like Digital Skills and Jobs Coalition and apprenticeship programs is essential for upskilling and reskilling the workforce. It further highlights that prioritizing digital skills and job platforms fosters industry growth and addresses talent gaps effectively.
© European Commission