Addressing the Tech Skills Gap in the Video Game Industry

The video game sector is experiencing rapid growth, with the market projected to reach $205 billion by 2025, according to Newzoo. However, the industry faces a significant challenge: a shortage of tech skills. Both small and large companies are struggling to find and retain talent, as the broader technology ecosystem competes for employees with similar experience. The competition for top candidates in the video game industry is fierce, with many opportunities for employees to build successful careers. However, when compared to other tech sectors, recruitment becomes a critical business issue that studios must address. Since the lockdown, the demand for tech talent has surged, but the supply of suitable candidates has not kept pace. The need for skills to support development, design, and implementation has grown, with vacancies in the UK, US, and EU exceeding supply. The UK Chambers of Commerce reported that nearly two-thirds of firms wanted to hire, but eight out of ten found it difficult to find skilled or unskilled workers. Similarly, in the US, the Federal Reserve chair stated that the current labor force is 3.5 million workers short of pre-pandemic forecasts. Meanwhile, the Digital Economy and Society Index showed that 40% of European adults lack basic digital skills. This trend directly affects the game industry, as other companies have begun to recruit game professionals for non-gaming tech roles, further reducing the pool of potential employees. To address these challenges and develop a healthy talent pipeline, developers must invest in education and skills at an early age. This involves supporting initiatives that encourage people to pursue careers in tech and game development, as well as working with schools and universities to foster talent and create a solid entry-level workforce. On the recruitment front, having a broader perspective on the sector is crucial. Reviewing skill sets and investigating different academic backgrounds can provide a wider pool of candidates. Training must be a top priority for employees, whether they are entry-level or experienced veterans. Providing the fundamentals of the role and opportunities for development will demonstrate the company's commitment to long-term success. Establishing a positive culture and supportive environment will also bolster learning and development opportunities. Experienced developers can pass on their knowledge and skills to younger developers through mentorship opportunities and streamlined onboarding processes. Several organizations, such as the IGDA, already support mentorship and collaboration in the industry. However, training and mentoring are not enough to bridge the tech skills gap; companies must work harder to create a more diverse workforce. In the UK, for example, the majority of the workforce is 'White British,' highlighting the need for a more inclusive workspace. A more comprehensive and diverse workforce will help create games that appeal to a wider audience. Instead of relying on quotas, studios should take an insight-led approach to understand how to make their business more diverse. Considering factors like interview tasks and work socials can help create a more inclusive environment. Salary will always be a key factor in recruitment, but companies can offer attractive compensation packages, such as profit-sharing programs or remote working opportunities, to attract top talent. By taking proactive steps to broaden the types of candidates employed and establishing a culture of growth, development, and support, studios can bring in skilled workers and maintain business continuity and change.