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Video game commerce company Xsolla has announced a strategic partnership with Saudi-based Savvy Games Group, aimed at fostering job creation and supporting the growth of the gaming industry in Saudi Arabia. The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, will focus on developing a series of programs designed to nurture and expand the local game development ecosystem.
Key Initiatives
The collaboration will kick off with the establishment of several key initiatives:
- Game Development Academy: This academy will serve as a hub for educating future game developers and industry professionals, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the gaming sector.
- Incubator Program: Aimed at supporting early-stage startups and smaller companies, this program will provide crucial resources and guidance to help these businesses grow and succeed.
- Accelerator Program: This initiative will offer further assistance to high-potential projects and studios, helping them scale and achieve their full potential.
In addition to these programs, Xsolla and Savvy Games Group plan to host video game events catering to both business and consumer audiences. They will also provide funding for game development projects and facilitate connections between local studios and international investors.
Expanding Presence
To support these efforts, Xsolla will open a new office in Riyadh. This move will bolster the partnership and ensure effective collaboration on the ground.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a strategic plan aimed at diversifying the economy and boosting the local tech and entertainment sectors. By investing in game development education and infrastructure, the deal seeks to build a sustainable and vibrant gaming industry in the region.
Industry Impact
Brian Ward, CEO of Savvy Games Group, highlighted the significance of the partnership: “This partnership with Xsolla represents a significant step forward in our mission to elevate Saudi Arabia’s games and esports ecosystem to global prominence. By combining our resources and expertise, we are creating jobs and building a vibrant, sustainable industry that will drive opportunity and creativity for years to come.”
With this collaboration, Xsolla and Savvy Games Group aim to make a lasting impact on the Saudi gaming industry, fostering innovation and expanding opportunities within one of the fastest-growing markets in the world.