Bridging the Tech Skills Gap in the Video Games Industry

The video games sector is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected market value of $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 source and retain talent, as the broader technology ecosystem competes for employees with similar experience. The video games industry's constant need for B2B and B2C activity creates opportunities for employees to build successful careers, but the competition for strong candidates is high. Since the lockdown, the demand for tech talent has surged, but the pool of suitable candidates has not kept pace. Vacancies in the UK, US, and EU have exceeded supply, with nearly two in three firms seeking to hire people, but finding skilled or unskilled workers is difficult. The UK Chambers of Commerce and the US Federal Reserve have reported labor shortages, while The Digital Economy and Society Index shows that 40% of European adults lack basic digital skills. This trend has a direct impact on the games industry, with other brands poaching games professionals for non-gaming tech roles, further shrinking the existing pool of potential employees. To address these challenges, developers can invest in education and skills development at an early age, supporting initiatives that encourage people to pursue careers in tech and game development. They can also work 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 the required skillsets and investigating different academic backgrounds can provide a wider pool of candidates. Training must be a priority, with junior staff receiving fundamental training and experienced staff offered development opportunities. Establishing a positive culture and supportive environment will bolster learning and development opportunities. Mentorship programs, such as those offered by the IGDA, can pair experienced developers with younger developers. However, training and mentoring are not enough; companies need to work harder to create a more diverse workforce. According to UKIE's 2022 Game Industry Census, the majority of the workforce in the UK is 'White British.' To establish a more inclusive workspace, studios must make a greater effort to avoid unconscious biases in the recruitment process. Quotas are not the solution; instead, an insight-led approach can help studios understand how to make their business more diverse. Considering factors such as work socials and adjusting accordingly can 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 the best 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.