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The workforce grew by approximately 53% annually since 2018.
The Portuguese game development industry is experiencing significant growth, marked by a substantial increase in studios, revenue, and workforce. Since 2010, the number of studios has grown by over 20% annually, accelerating to 33% since 2018. Revenue has seen an even steeper rise, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 41% since 2010 and approximately 63% since 2018, reaching over €38 million in 2022. The workforce has expanded by about 53% each year since 2018.
This expansion is attributed to several factors, including Portugal's emergence as a tech hub, high quality of life, strong English proficiency, and a robust supply of engineering graduates. The country also serves as a strategic entry point to the European market for other Portuguese-speaking nations, particularly Brazil. Key milestones include Miniclip's establishment in 2010, significant studio acquisitions like Funcom acquiring ZPX and Saber Interactive acquiring Bigmoon, and the recent opening of The Gaming Hub in Lisbon, a co-working space designed to foster innovation and collaboration.
Despite this growth, challenges remain, including a scarcity of senior game developers and limited government support specifically tailored for game development. While general grants and R&D tax credits exist, the industry lacks direct fiscal incentives seen in other European Union countries. The Portuguese Game Developer Association (APVP) is actively engaging with policymakers to address these issues and enhance practical aspects of game development education. The Gaming Hub aims to mitigate some of these challenges by providing a collaborative environment for startups, studios, and venture capitalists.
Looking forward, the industry anticipates continued expansion, with more companies expected to establish studios in Portugal. Recent announcements include Pole To Win's plan to open an office in Braga and GlobalStep's new location in Portugal. The vibrant community, supported by events like DevGAMM Lisbon and Gamiberica, further contributes to a thriving ecosystem. The sustained growth in turnover, from €5.5 million in 2018 to nearly €39 million in 2022, underscores the industry's resilience and potential.
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Direcció General d’Innovació i Cultura Digital · 2025