Game On for Scotland: Reflecting On The Sector’s Voice And Our Shared Future

Last week, Holyrood Magazine published a significant feature on Scotland’s games ecosystem, titled ‘Game on: Will Scotland lead the sector’s next economic boom?‘ It’s a piece I was pleased to contribute to, and one that I believe captures both the immense, often overlooked, potential of our games sector here in Scotland, and some of the very real challenges we face in unlocking it.

Reading the article and seeing the stories of the incredible Abertay students alongside reflections on our industry’s legacy and current landscape serves as a timely reminder of several key things. Firstly, the sheer talent and creativity bubbling up from our educational institutions is something we should not only be proud of, but showcase more widely. Secondly, the passion and resilience within our development community, which has weathered the recent storms and produced world-beating titles from the days of DMA Design to the innovative studios of today, is undeniable.

The Holyrood piece rightly highlights that while we have this incredible foundation, Scotland’s games ecosystem is “not as cherished or supported as it could be” and often fails to “receive any kind of focused attention”. This lack of dedicated support, funding, and a cohesive voice has been a persistent hurdle. The disconnect, at times, between our amazing educational pipeline and the industry itself is another area we must collectively address.

However, what also shines through is a powerful sense of optimism and a recognition of the “golden opportunity” before us. The article touches upon the work many of us are engaged in right now – striving to build better connections, advocate for the support our industry deserves, and demonstrate the profound economic and societal impact games can have, well beyond entertainment, in areas like education and healthcare.

This is where the real work begins, and where we, as a sector, need to come together with renewed focus and collaborative spirit. The development of the Games Action Plan for Scotland, a project I am currently leading, is designed to address many of the issues raised. It aims to provide that much-needed strategic framework, to champion our sector’s needs, and to create tangible pathways for growth, investment, and support.

The Holyrood article serves as an excellent independent viewpoint, underscoring why this strategic work is so vital. But the action plan – or any strategy – is only as strong as the collective will and effort behind it.

This is our moment to ensure the Scottish games sector is not just recognised for its past achievements or its current potential, but is actively empowered to become the economic and cultural powerhouse we know it can be. It’s time to ensure we are properly represented, that our contributions are valued, and that the path for the next generation of talent is clearer and better supported.

I encourage everyone in the Scottish games community to read the Holyrood Magazine article. Let it be a catalyst for conversation, for renewed determination, and for a shared commitment to:

• Maintain Focus: On the strategic priorities that will make the biggest difference.
• Support the Work: Engage with initiatives like Scotland’s Games Action Plan, share your insights, and help us build the strongest possible case for our sector.
• Work Together: Collaboration between studios, educators, government agencies, and support organisations is paramount. We are stronger together.

As I said in the article, I believe games can be Scotland’s “secret weapon”. Now, let’s work together to make that a widely known and celebrated reality. The opportunity is here; let’s seize it.

~Brian