Continuous Growth and Future Challenges: Belgian Games Industry Survey 2019

The 2019 Belgian Games Industry survey highlights a period of sustained growth and maturation for the national sector, characterized by an increasing number of established studios and rising total turnover. As of 2019, the industry comprised 95 companies, representing a 32% increase since 2015. Over half of these entities have been in operation for more than three years, with one-third reaching the five-year milestone, signaling improved long-term viability for local developers. Geographically, the industry is concentrated in Flanders, which hosts 70% of the companies, followed by Wallonia at 25% and Brussels at 5%.

Despite reaching a record industry turnover of €93 million in 2018, the sector remains fragile due to a heavy reliance on a few major players, most notably Larian Studios. The majority of companies focus on entertainment games, though one-third of studios specialize in serious games. To achieve further growth and reach the next level of international competitiveness, the industry requires additional investment to support emerging studios beyond the current market leaders.

A significant challenge identified is the lack of workforce diversity. The industry remains heavily male-dominated, with 93% of workers identifying as male. This trend is mirrored in educational pipelines, where female enrollment in game development programs remains low. Addressing this gender imbalance is considered essential for fostering more diverse perspectives and aligning the Belgian sector with global industry standards. Overall, while the industry has successfully transitioned from a niche pursuit to a professional career path, continued development depends on diversifying the talent pool and securing broader financial support for the ecosystem.