A bold move is afoot in the Saudi games industry, and it's sparking excitement and controversy alike. The Savvy Games Group and Neom have joined forces to smooth the path for startups, but is it a step too far?
The two entities, both backed by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF), have signed a memorandum of understanding. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between Savvy's Nine66 Incubator Program and Neom's Level Up Accelerator, offering a seamless transition for studios to progress from "incubation to acceleration".
Amr Sager, chief of staff at Savvy Games Group, highlights the growing number of programs supporting emerging studios in Saudi Arabia. He believes the next logical step is to create a unified front, ensuring startups can easily access the resources they need. "This partnership is about creating a clear and smooth journey for startups," Sager explains.
But here's where it gets controversial. Neom, established in 2019, has been reported to be "significantly downscaled" by the Financial Times. Despite this, they're pushing forward with their gaming initiatives. Toby Evan-Jones, head of gaming at Neom, emphasizes the importance of coordination for the benefit of young game makers. "We're excited about the alignment," he says.
And this is the part most people miss: the PIF's extensive reach. With stakes in Silver Lake Capital and Affinity Partners, the fund will essentially own Electronic Arts if the $55 billion acquisition deal goes through. This level of control raises questions about the future of the industry and the role of these powerful entities.
So, is this partnership a brilliant move to empower Saudi studios, or does it signal a potential monopoly in the making? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments. The gaming industry is evolving, and these developments are sure to shape its future. What's your take on this story?
