The German Games Industry Association (Game) has called on policymakers across Germany and Europe to implement frameworks that allow video game companies to flourish.
In a call to action posted online, Game claimed the video game production capabilities of Germany and Europe “remain too weak by international standards” due to a lack of adequate regulatory and governmental support.
“The enormous strength and dynamics of the games industry can only unfold under internationally competitive conditions that enable long-term planning. Germany and Europe need an ambitious strategy within which framework conditions can be created that provide stronger support for founding, establishing and growing games companies,” reads the statement.
“The required measures range from specific start-up funding, production support and improved infrastructure for games companies, to the training and immigration of skilled professionals, to game research and location campaigns. The most important building block for Germany at this time is to implement the tax-based funding system in line with international standards that was announced in the Federal Government’s coalition agreement.”
Game, which co-organises video game trade fair Gamescom in Cologne, claimed games are currently generating more than $200 billion in revenue worldwide and described the art form as “integral” to cultural life.
The organization argued that a strong domestic games industry has become “crucial for digital sovereignty” and will help develop key digital skills across sectors such as industry, education, and research.
“Politics, business and society should make far greater use of games, their ideas and their technologies in every area—from digital education and science to democratic participation. For democracy in particular, games and games culture hold great opportunity,” it reads.
“Studies show that video game players have greater trust in democracy and are more open to being motivated to get involved than the population at large. A confident games culture that stands for openness, diversity, inclusion and togetherness therefore also brings gains for social cohesion. This potential needs to be put to greater use.”
To unlock that potential, Game feels regulators must prioritize “targeted regulation” by strengthening proven systems to flatten what has become a “regulatory jungle.”
“Competitive framework conditions in Germany and Europe must include regulation that is proportionate and built on what has been proven to work. The German games industry has developed a unique model of effective self- and co-regulation, combining innovation and successful business models with a high level of protection for minors and consumers,” it added.
Game’s full statement—published just weeks before Gamescom is scheduled to begin on August 24—is available to read online.