The Number of Games Companies and Employees in Germany Continues to Grow

Key insights

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Revenue Breakdown

Sales revenue from computer and video games reached approximately 5.4 billion euros in 2021.

This 19 percent increase was largely driven by in-game and in-app purchases. Hardware sales also saw significant growth.

5.4 billion euros

Sales revenue from computer and video games in 2021.

Increase in games software revenue: 19%
Games hardware sales: 3.6 billion euros

Extended Employment

The total number of jobs secured by the German games industry exceeds 28,000.

This includes service providers, retail, and the public sector. The extended labor market recovered with a 6 percent increase.

Like a ripple effect, the core games industry creates many more jobs in related fields.

28,000+

Total jobs secured by the German games industry, including the extended labor market.

Increase in extended labor market: 6%
Associated employees in extended market: 17,048

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Summary

The German games industry experienced sustained growth throughout 2021 and into 2022, characterized by an increase in both the number of active companies and the total workforce. As of August 2022, there were approximately 786 companies involved in the development and marketing of games in Germany, representing a 5% increase over the previous year. This growth is largely driven by the emergence of smaller studios, as evidenced by a 26% rise in the total number of companies over a two-year period.

Employment figures within the sector also show positive momentum. The core market, comprising developers and publishers, reached 11,242 employees, reflecting a 3% annual growth rate. When accounting for the extended labor market—which includes service providers, retailers, educational institutions, and the public sector—the industry supports more than 28,000 jobs in total. This broader segment saw a 6% increase in employment, signaling a recovery following previous declines.

Financial performance remains robust, with the German games market generating approximately 9.8 billion euros in 2021, a 17% increase compared to the prior year. Revenue from games software grew by 19% to 5.4 billion euros, while hardware sales rose by 18% to 3.6 billion euros. Industry leadership attributes this expansion to improved market conditions and the impact of federal support programs.

The data is derived from ongoing industry observations, expert surveys, and research conducted by the German Games Industry Association, utilizing information from gamesmap.de. Market revenue statistics are based on data from GfK Consumer Panel and data.ai, which includes an ongoing survey of 25,000 representative German consumers regarding their purchasing and usage habits.