Video game trading platform Xsolla has partnered with Savvy Games Group to create a game development academy in Saudi Arabia in an effort to “create economic opportunities” for Middle Eastern developers.
By extension, this deal puts Xsolla in trouble with the state-owned Public Investment Fund, whose Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammad bin Salman was linked to the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
With the Savvy deal, Xsolla promises to help create 3,600 new jobs by the end of 2030. Several “key” initiatives will be launched, including incubation and acceleration programs, industry events, and funding for development projects.
Additionally, Xsolla will establish a regional office in Riyadh with services focused on business, product and technology development “to help developers and publishers expand and grow their games in the Middle East and the Kingdom.”
Savvy CEO Brian Ward called the partnership with Xsolla “an important step forward in our mission to elevate Saudi Arabia’s gaming and esports ecosystem.” […] We are creating jobs and building a vibrant, sustainable industry that will generate opportunity and creativity for years to come.”
All eyes are on Saudi Arabia and its gaming future
In January, Ward expressed hope that Saudi Arabia would become a “strong development ecosystem“by 2030, and Xsolla hopes to help Savvy achieve that goal.
Savvy and the Saudi government have been seeking an “entry” into the broader sector for years, from put billions in it to invest in Nintendo AND EA.
Embracer was almost one of those “in”, but a deal between the two companies would have an estimated value of 2 billion dollars went bankrupt in mid-2023. While Savvy was doing basically well, Embracer cut AND Closed various projects and studies, a process that finished in March.
In addition to Savvy, other studios are attempting to establish a presence in Saudi Arabia. Play station AND The kwalee recently launched programs aimed at Middle Eastern film studios, offering development funding and advice.
