Updated Mar 17, 2026 by ESAC – Entertainment Software Association of Canada
Canada’s video game industry generated C$1.7 billion in direct economic impact in 2011, ranking third globally in revenue and first in jobs per capita.
The sector employed approximately 16,000 workers across 350 firms, with an 11% growth rate over the previous two years and a projected 17% increase for the following two.
Quebec serves as the industry hub with 8,236 employees and C$733 million in spending, while Ontario exhibits the fastest growth trajectory at 20–21%.
Large enterprises (151+ staff) dominate the labor market, accounting for 59% of total industry employment.
Console development remains the primary focus, employing 68% of the workforce, while mobile, social, and casual platforms represent 12% of resources.
Nearly half of Canadians (48%) identify as gamers, with a median age of 33 and a demographic split of 62% male and 38% female.
Canada’s video game industry generated C$1.7 billion in direct economic impact in 2011, ranking third globally in revenue and first in jobs per capita.
The sector employed approximately 16,000 workers across 350 firms, with an 11% growth rate over the previous two years and a projected 17% increase for the following two.
Quebec serves as the industry hub with 8,236 employees and C$733 million in spending, while Ontario exhibits the fastest growth trajectory at 20–21%.
Large enterprises (151+ staff) dominate the labor market, accounting for 59% of total industry employment.
Console development remains the primary focus, employing 68% of the workforce, while mobile, social, and casual platforms represent 12% of resources.
Nearly half of Canadians (48%) identify as gamers, with a median age of 33 and a demographic split of 62% male and 38% female.