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Study on European video games sector

The EU publishes the first comprehensive overview of the European video games sector analysing economic, employment, regulatory, cultural and social dimensions of video games.

Women playing a video game in computer

© RDNE Stock project

The European Video Games Society project was commissioned by DG CNECT and undertaken by consultancy companies Ecorys and KEA. The final report presents important findings on the European video games sector. 

The report discusses various facets of the sector, including the economic, employment, regulatory, cultural and social dimensions:

  • The video games industry is a significant economic sector. The EU27 video games market generated €23.48 billion of revenue in 2022.
  • Over half of the European population regularly play video games.
  • The sector employs around 74,000 people across 5,000 game development and publishing studios but faces challenges, including financial gaps, difficulties recruiting and finding the necessary skills.
  • Video games are complex products with a mix of technical (hardware and software) and creative elements. The study analyses the breadth of the regulatory framework applicable to the industry, as well as the social and cultural dimensions of video games.
  • It also presents nine recommendations for video games to thrive in Europe.

Read the full study here

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Understanding the value of a European gaming society _ Visual abstract (.pdf)
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