In 2019, the Australian gaming industry earned $ 3.16 billion in total revenues—which was its first drop since 2012.
Despite this decline, the Australian market is 12% larger than it was two years ago, and experts predict it will experience a significant rebound in 2020-2021. According to the trade body for computer and video games in Australia and New Zealand, the Interactive Games and Entertainment Association, the 2018 sales of Fortnite cannot be outdone by the 2019 releases.
“Major games and technologies are due to be released this year and in 2021. We’re expecting sales to drive forward as families and friends start to embrace video games as part of the new normal. In the next few years, Australia will establish video games as a way to connect, enjoy, and educate by many individuals of all ages and backgrounds.”, predicts Shane Perry, a business analyst from Max Funding.
He adds, “With a growing market and intensifying support from the government for home-grown developers, it’s possible that Australia’s game industry will sit side by side with that of the United States and Canada in the near future.”
Resilience in the Face of COVID-19 Pandemic
Compared to other sectors, the Australian video games industry seemed to be a lot more resilient to the impact of COVID-19.
Given this industry’s digital nature, the players have avoided various changes due to community quarantine and lockdowns. Game developers in Australia can continue with their normal operations despite the safety protocols. Numerous games were released this year, and there’s an exciting line-up for 2021.
The most prominent sign of this resilience was a survey among game companies in the country. Data shows that 84% of them have no plans to lay off employees or cut back on their projects in the foreseeable future. Numerous developers and publishers with products released timely are profiting. Since the pandemic broke, the demand for entertainment sources at home spiked—not only in Australia but across the globe.
In terms of video game development, Melbourne is leading with 33% of the total number of studios. Brisbane follows this with 20% and Sydney with 17%.
Major Challenges
Despite the impressive growth rate last year, the Australian online gaming industry is still considered diminutive compared to other countries.
When asked about the major challenges faced by the industry, respondents pointed out the lack of funding from the government. They also experience difficulty in inviting investors for early-stage development and expansion. Game developers also agonise through fluctuating internet speeds and in securing deals with international publishers. Nevertheless, they are hopeful that 2021 will open more opportunities.
Top Games of 2020
2020 is indeed a glorious year for video games, despite its slight decline to its 2019 position. We’ve appreciated video games more this year, not only because we’re forced to stay indoors but also because of the remarkable quality of new releases.
So, what are the best releases this year for most Australians?
- Ghost of Tsushima
- Animal Crossing New Horizons
- Demon’s Souls
- Spelunky 2
- Assassins Creed Valhalla
- Marvel’s Spiderman: Miles Morales
- Ori and the Will of the Wisps
- Gears Tactics
- Doom Eternal
- The Last of Us Part II
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