Xsolla and Savvy Games to boost video game development in Middle East

Xsolla, a prominent global video game commerce company, has announced a strategic alliance with Savvy Games Group, Saudi Arabia’s leading organization for games and esports. This partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is designed to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by generating significant economic opportunities within the video game industry. The collaboration aims to create approximately 3,600 new jobs in the video game sector by the end of 2030, underscoring a major commitment to fostering growth and innovation for developers, publishers, and players not only in the Middle East but also on a global scale.

The MoU outlines several key initiatives aimed at advancing the video game industry in Saudi Arabia. Central to these efforts is the establishment of the Xsolla Academy, Incubator, and Accelerator programs. These programs are intended to support both local and international game development studios. The Xsolla Academy will play a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talent and promoting game development as a viable career path within the Kingdom. By focusing on education and mentorship, the Academy aims to cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals in the gaming industry.

In addition to the educational and developmental programs, the partnership will explore the organization of high-profile video game events tailored to both business and consumer audiences. These events are expected to bolster the Kingdom’s reputation as a burgeoning hub for gaming and esports. Moreover, the partnership plans to provide funding for game development projects, enhancing opportunities for innovation and growth. By fostering connections between local studios and international investors, Xsolla and Savvy Games Group aim to create a robust network that supports the expansion of the gaming industry in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

As part of this strategic collaboration, Xsolla will establish a regional headquarters in Riyadh. This new office will offer comprehensive services including product development, technology support, customer service, and business development. The Riyadh office will play a crucial role in assisting developers and publishers in scaling their operations and expanding their reach within the Middle East and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Brian Ward, CEO of Savvy Games Group, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “This collaboration with Xsolla represents a major milestone in our mission to elevate Saudi Arabia’s gaming and esports ecosystem to a global level. By combining our resources and expertise, we are committed to building a vibrant and sustainable industry that will drive opportunity and creativity for years to come.”

Chris Hewish, Chief Strategy Officer at Xsolla, expressed enthusiasm about the joint venture, saying, “We are excited to partner with Savvy Games Group on this groundbreaking initiative. Our shared vision for the future of video games aligns perfectly, and together, we aim to empower developers, foster creativity, and support the next generation of talent in Saudi Arabia.”

Through this partnership, Xsolla and Savvy Games Group are poised to make a substantial impact on the video game industry in the Middle East, creating new opportunities and driving the region’s gaming sector toward a promising future.