Why indie games development scene in Australia continues to thrive

Whether it’s the theme of our favourite movies or video games, everyone seems to love a good underdog story, when unsung heroes rise above overwhelming odds or great adversity to ultimately triumph.

Intriguingly, beyond the storyboards and narratives of these popular entertainment mediums, the games industry in Australia features plenty of true to life examples of success during the last decade. And what’s even more incredible, going by reports at the gamesindustry.biz website, games development was almost brought to its knees in the country, following the globalfinancial crisisin 2007.

Before that happened, Australia had become a fertile and creative location for games development, attracting some the most important global corporations and publishers. EA Games and Take-Two Interactive both had major studio bases in the country, where developers produced hugely successful titles.

But when the perfect storm of collapsing banks and toxic debts cause a massive recession, particularly in the United States between 2007 and 2008, practically every kind of business worldwide was affected. This included the games industry in Australia, as major studios began scaling back, closing down their operations in the country.

Nevertheless, given the abundance of talented games development remaining Down Under, the chance of a new start brought about the rise of what became a thriving independent gaming scene. These were small teams and individual developers that decided to forge their own path, and the indie developers went on to lay stronger foundations in Australia.

Despite the obvious risks involved with going it alone, especially in the midst of uncertain and turbulent global economic conditions, these pioneering indie developers quickly began to blossom. According to ABC News insights, they actually saved Australia’s games industry, taking big chances and significant risks, going on to reap the rewards of their tireless efforts.

The key to this growth and success was the freedom to explore diverse niches. Alongside their own passion projects released across different platforms, from PC and console to mobile, some of these innovative developers reached into the buoyant iGaming sector, focused on games and software for online casinos.

Indeed, many of the best online pokies by CasinoAus.net feature the innovativeness and creativity of indie developers, having brought new ideas to one of the most popular niches of casino gaming. But just as importantly, their own business gambles were beginning to pay dividends, laying the foundations for an industry that has adapted and evolved.

Following a global financial crisis that had crushed more than 60% of games development, during the period 2007 and 2015, this new breed of creatives were honing their talents and starting to gain international recognition. This in turn brought about a new influx of investment for the games industry in Australia.

Pretty quickly, federal and state governments realised the need to support and nurture games development, observing how the sector was providing new opportunities for employment and investment. Crucial support came in the form of tax incentives and grants, allowing these small yet ambitious gaming studios to grow and flourish.

Now the games industry in Australia is firmly back on its feet, and even in the midst of a challenging economic landscape once again, they are better prepared and supported to continue thriving. The future of gaming Down Under has never been healthier and looks all set to continue thriving.