Video games have become a cultural and economic powerhouse, outpacing both the music and film industries in revenue. This financial dominance significantly impacts economic growth. For example, the gaming industry in the United States employs over 100,000 people directly in game development and an additional 300,000 in supporting roles. This sector contributes approximately $65 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
Southeast Asia is a thriving gaming market, with Indonesia as its dominant force, accounting for 43% of the region’s gamers. In 2020 alone, Indonesia’s gaming industry generated USD 1.74 billion in revenue, equivalent to IDR 25 trillion. Recognizing the gaming industry’s immense potential, the Indonesian government issued Presidential Decree No. 19 of 2024 to accelerate its growth. This decree highlight the government’s aim to boost the national gaming industry’s contribution further, as the domestic gaming industry currently represents only a small fraction of the market, with foreign companies dominating over 99% of the share. Additionally, the industry’s contribution to the national economy remains low, accounting for approximately 2.19% of Indonesia’s GDP in 2020.
The Indonesian Game Association (AGI), founded in 2013, is a key player in supporting the growth of the local gaming industry. Comprising prominent Indonesian game studios, AGI focuses on elevating the reputation of domestically produced games and fostering a thriving, inclusive gaming environment. Currently led by Cipto Adiguno, who also serves as Agate’s Chief Strategic Officer, AGI plays a vital role in driving the industry forward. AGI established Indonesian Game Day, or “HARGAI,” in 2016. Originally intended as a general platform for game promotion, the event has evolved into a celebration of accomplishments by Indonesian game developers.
Gaming's Cultural Impact
Beyond economic influence, the gaming industry has emerged as a potent force in shaping popular culture. Games have become more than just entertainment; they are storytelling mediums that resonate deeply with audiences. Through immersive narratives and relatable characters, games have the power to influence social attitudes, inspire creativity, and even drive social change. This cultural impact has solidified gaming’s position as a dominant force in the entertainment landscape.
Games Developed by Agate
Moreover, games can become platforms for social commentary and activism. By addressing relevant social issues and empowering players to make meaningful choices, games can foster empathy, promote critical thinking, and inspire positive change. As technology continues to advance, the potential for games to drive social impact will only grow stronger.
More Than Just Entertainment
The interactive nature of games has transformed them into powerful tools for education and training, extending their traditional role as entertainment. Businesses are increasingly recognizing the potential of gamification to enhance employee engagement, productivity, and skill development. By incorporating game-like elements such as points, badges, leaderboards, and challenges into workplace activities, companies can foster a more dynamic and rewarding learning environment. Gamification can be applied to a wide range of business functions, from sales and customer service to product development and human resources. For instance, Agate integrated gamified elements into its onboarding process, making it more engaging and effective for new employees.
Beyond the corporate world, gamification is proving to be a valuable tool for public education and social impact. By leveraging the inherent fun and motivation of games, educators and policymakers can address complex challenges such as financial literacy, health and wellness, and environmental sustainability. The collaboration between Bank Jago and Level Up powered by Agate, which resulted in the creation of Jago Money Quest, is a prime example of how gamification can be used to make learning accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience. This innovative approach to financial education can capture the attention of young people, equipping them with essential money management skills.
Jago Money Quest Gameplay
We Are Agate
Founded in 2009, Agate has been actively evolving Indonesia’s gaming industry. Our commitment extends beyond creating high-quality games; we aim to cultivate a new generation of gaming talent. Through Agate Academy, we’re actively shaping the future of game development education, collaborating with the Indonesian Ministry of Education and Culture to integrate game development into the curriculum. Our programs, including Agate Game Course, Unreal Class, and Agate Game Course for Teacher, empower students and educators to create world-class talent.
To expand our global footprint and foster strategic partnerships, Agate has established a presence in the United States, Canada, and South Korea. Our team, boasting AAA game development experience, is dedicated to positioning Agate as a leading global game development partner.
Agate Representatives
Recognizing the profound impact games have on people’s lives, we offer a comprehensive suite of services through our full game development, porting, and 3D game art service. In addition, Level Up powered by Agate empowers us to create games that not only entertain but also educate and train.
Contact us today, and let’s collaborate to craft groundbreaking games that enrich lives!
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