UK Video Games Council Pushes for Further Government Support: A Call for Mid-Sized Companies and Political Aid
The UK Video Games Council is advocating for increased government support, emphasizing the need for assistance to mid-sized companies and political aid to match the support provided to industries in other countries.
At Pocket Gamer Connects 2026, Ustwo's Maria Sayans highlighted the lack of support for mid-sized companies, stating that these businesses often operate under the radar despite their long-standing presence in the UK. Sayans emphasized that not all industry players aspire to become massive companies, and thus, support tailored to their needs is crucial.
Miniclip CEO Saad Choudri echoed similar sentiments, pointing out the UK's abundance of talent but the absence of government-level support compared to other regions. Choudri cited Turkey's success, attributing it to the government's substantial support, such as cash rebates for user acquisition funding. He contrasted this with the UK's lack of comparable initiatives, suggesting that countries like Canada and Vietnam have also achieved success through government intervention.
Choudri further emphasized the UK's creative prowess but noted that the industry often operates in isolation. He expressed skepticism about starting a 100-person studio in the UK, reflecting a sentiment shared by many industry professionals. The UK Video Games Council, established in June 2025, aims to improve the government's relationship with industry representatives. However, it has faced criticism for its lack of representation, as highlighted by the IWGB Game Workers union.
In response, the UK Games Industry Shadow Council has emerged to address 'good and poor practices' in the sector, indicating a growing call for transparency and accountability within the industry.
