150 companies enrich Austria’s computer and video game industry

Austria not only plays, but also develops computer and video games – and in high quality. This is the conclusion reached by a study by the Industrial Science Institute (IWI) on behalf of the Management Consulting, Accounting and IT Association (Ubit) of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce. The results of the study were presented this week.

The so-called “game development” is a “young and dynamic industry,” said study co-author Wolfgang Koller from IWI. It is predominantly characterized by small companies with above-average young skilled workers. More than 81 percent of companies have no more than nine employees, 24 companies employ ten to 48 people, four companies have 50 or more employees.

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More than half of all companies are based in Vienna. Own3d Media from Steyr stands out in Upper Austria. The company offers products, services and tools for gamers who broadcast their computer games live on video platforms.

The study included 80 percent of all gaming companies in this country. During the study period, they mainly developed games for entertainment (85 percent) or educational purposes (30 percent) as well as so-called “serious games” (29 percent). These are games that have clear learning goals defined and are not just for pure entertainment. Since 2018, the production of serious games in Austria has increased. In general, computer and mobile games are mainly developed for smartphones and tablets. According to the study, AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) are responsible for 20 and 35 percent of the industry, respectively.

2260 jobs depend on it

According to the study, each job in a game development company secures more than one other job in Austria. In total, around 2,260 jobs would be created directly or indirectly by local game developers. Co-study author Koller: “The economic performance and impulse effect as well as the economic effects of the industry on the domestic economy are characterized by growth.”

Ubit chairman Alfred Harl highlighted the development of the industry, but also pointed out the challenges. He sees a need for action in the education sector, in corporate financing and in the funding system. “We need innovations, these are missing in the IT sector,” said Harl. Among other things, he called for two fixed computer science hours per week in general secondary schools.

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