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TIGA has today called for the implementation of an action plan for the Scottish video games sector.
The move comes in the wake of Dundee studio Realtime Worlds going into administration, following a difficult reception for its latest title APB.
TIGA CEO Dr Richard Wilson outlined some of the features of the as-yet-theoretical plan on the BBC Radio programme ‘Good Morning Scotland’. They include:
* Games Tax Relief should be introduced at the earliest opportunity so that the games industry can compete on a level playing against games businesses in other countries.
* Research and Development tax credits should be retained and enhanced.
* Business incubators should be established to help the formation of a new wave of video games firms. Small, start up games businesses should receive business mentoring and advice on how to create and retain IP and how to develop relatively sustainable business models.
* Games clusters should be consciously supported. Clusters can encourage knowledge transfer and business efficiencies. With a critical mass of games businesses in place, this in turn should encourage inward investment.
* Higher education must be adequately funded and the study of STEM subjects encouraged in order to ensure that the games industry has access to a well qualified and skilled workforce.
“If the Scottish video games industry in particular and the UK games sector in general are to come through the current crisis and attain their potential, then we must take decisive action,” Wilson said.
“We still hope that Realtime Worlds will find a buyer. Whether this transpires or not, we need action to ensure that our video games industry comes through the current turmoil in as strong a shape as possible."
"TIGA will play its part through the provision of best practice business advice and support and we will continue to champion our video games sector.”
