Czech Games Industry Study

The Czech Games Industry Study serves as a comprehensive assessment of the economic impact, structural composition, and developmental challenges facing the Czech game development sector. By monitoring industry performance, the study aims to advocate for systemic improvements in government support, education, and international labor mobility. The analysis highlights that while the industry is a significant cultural and economic force—generating revenue that exceeds the domestic film industry—it requires targeted policy interventions to sustain long-term growth and global competitiveness.

Key findings indicate a resilient but fluctuating market. After a record-breaking 2021, industry turnover declined by 22% in 2022 to CZK 5.57 billion, remaining stagnant through 2023. However, projections for 2024 suggest a recovery with anticipated growth of approximately 17%, targeting a turnover of CZK 6.5 billion. The sector is highly export-oriented, with 98% of total revenue derived from international markets. The industry comprises roughly 170 studios, primarily concentrated in Prague (52%) and Brno (20%), and is characterized by strong domestic ownership, with foreign-owned branches representing only 7% of the market.

Employment remains a critical bottleneck, with the industry employing approximately 2,765 people as of 2023. Despite creating over 400 jobs annually, more than 60% of companies report a shortage of qualified labor. The current educational landscape is insufficient to meet this demand, forcing studios to rely on international recruitment, with foreign nationals accounting for 36% of the workforce. To address these gaps, the industry calls for enhanced government support regarding visa accessibility, specialized academic programs, and direct investment initiatives to ensure the sector remains a viable and growing pillar of the national digital economy.