The third installment in the Dread Out series, DreadHaunt, Launches on Steam

Bandung, September 25, 2024 — After a thrilling journey through Early Access, Agate in collaboration with Digital Happiness, NUON Digital Indonesia, and Dark Product officially launched DreadHaunt, the immersive survival horror and deception game. DreadHaunt is now available on the Steam platform and will soon be available on Xbox and PlayStation. Offering both single-player and multiplayer modes, DreadHaunt combines the thrill of cooperative gameplay with a gripping, narrative-driven solo experience. Players will finally step into the chilling world of the game, where survival hinges on trust, deception, and bravery.   Set on a mysterious, abandoned island north of Jakarta, Indonesia, DreadHaunt plunges players into an eerie world teeming with supernatural forces and untold mysteries. The island is a hub of arcane energies and haunted entities, untouched by the modern world. Despite the best efforts of science, it remains plagued by anomalous creatures and cursed objects, forcing players to confront the paranormal head-on.   As an agent of a secret containment agency, players must secure and dispose of cursed items scattered across the island, believed to be the source of the island’s supernatural disturbances. Equipped with specially modified detection tools fused with traditional amulets, agents will engage with these forces, uncovering dark secrets at every turn.  DreadHaunt v1.0 features Single Player mode Allows exploration from a first-person point of view, offering a glimpse into the origins of the entire saga. Multiplayer mode Play in either a first-person view or a third-person view with several modes to choose from: Deception & Versus Mode: Third-person 3-5 PVP Play as an agent or a person possessed by an evil spirit hiding among the players.  Ghost Hunting: First-person Co-op 1-5 PVE Play solo or cooperate with other players to survive. Unique Ghost Hunting Tools Utilize unique ghost-hunting equipment.  Contain. Dispose. Survive! Play as one of the secret agents securing and defending against supernatural phenomena.  Challenging Gameplay In this multiplayer mode, players do not know who will be possessed or what creature will appear during the game.  Deck Builders as Game Modifiers Players can use a card-based system to alter game outcomes, such as stats, weather, ghost appearances, and more.  Prepare to embark on an intense adventure full of supernatural encounters, treacherous environments, and dynamic multiplayer interaction. Available now on Steam s.agate.id/dhsteam  

Agate Globally Launches ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ on Steam and Nintendo Switch

Bandung, Indonesia/London, United Kingdom, 12th September, 2024 – Developed by Indonesian developer Agate, and published by PQube, brimming with fantasy and romance, the magical visual novel, ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ is out now on Steam and Nintendo Switch!     A world of fantasy and romance that can rival the likes of literary adventures like Harry Potter and Forth Wing, Celestia: Chain of Fate blends school, magic, and mythical creatures in new and unexpected ways. Players are invited to immerse in a world of fantasy and romance, where every decision shapes the journey. #ChooseYourOwnPath and uncover the secrets that will define the destiny.    With three male leads to romance and explore, play as Aria, a rare daemon-angelus hybrid, and experience her growth as she fights to become the ultimate graduate. Venture into new territory through Aria’s eyes as she paves a path for herself in foreign lands, and forge unbreakable alliances with the sons of some very powerful figures. Experience the true strength of bonds born through adversity, and the power of true love.   Out now on Nintendo eShop digitally, and physically  Out now on PC Steam  Catch the 10% launch discount on Steam and Nintendo eShop  Play the demo on Steam  Check out the launch livestream on Steam  Check out the new launch trailer here  Available in Simplified Chinese on Steam  Simplified Chinese also available on Physical Editions!    Key features:  Otome Visual Novel – Follow a captivating romantic fantasy about Angelus, Daemons and Half Bloods over 20+ hours of chapters!  Romanceable Leads – Discover the diverse personalities of your love interests across three main routes – ranging from the fiery passion in Val, to the gentle warmth of Luke, to the cold reserve of Ash. Build up affection and pick the man of your dreams!  Choices and Scenarios – Control the story by choosing options that best suit you! However, tread carefully, as there are various undesirable outcomes awaiting you.  Breath-taking illustrations – Immerse yourself in a story full of exquisite hand-crafted illustrations, brimming with intricate details. Progress will automatically unlock stunning special illustrations that enhance your experience.  Extra Stories! – No detail will be missed with the opportunity to discover more about your favourite characters! Each character will feature their own side story, providing you with the chance to delve deeper into their backgrounds and personalities!  Atmospheric Music – Enjoy the story accompanied by music, enhancing key moments, and enriching the overall experience with deeper immersion and heightened emotional depth.  Watch the ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ Announcement Trailer https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/assets-website.agate.id/storage-website/Celestia+Chain+of+Fate_Launch+Trailer_EU.mp4 The students at Celestia Academy each have their own personal battles to fight, and it is up to you to decide if you will fight alongside them, support them in their hour of need, or watch from the side lines. Thrust into a world of magic, Aria discovers her heritage as an angelus-daemon hybrid and the shocking truth that her family as she knows it is an adopted one. Despite this, their bonds remain strong, and once Aria has left to learn more about her magic in Celestia Academy, she discovers her beloved younger brother has been bound to the haughty daemon Lilith. Aria believes the only way to free her brother Fynn is by becoming the top graduate and obtaining a special wish of her choosing. But the competition is high, and the world of magic and creatures is foreign to Aria, this is a task she cannot undertake alone. Energetic and charismatic on the surface, Val de Lucifer holds a deep sorrow in his heart from the recent passing of his brother. Determined to find the keys to a secret box his brother left behind, Val learns sides to his brother he never knew about on his journey. Will Aria help Val find the clues he needs, or will she let him face his grief alone? Cold on the outside, Ash Winterlight melts for those closest to him. Royalty may be an honoured privilege for some but for this half-angelus human, it means a pact his kind-hearted mother is trapped in. Desperate to find the solution to his mothers plight, Ash leaves no stone unturned in his search for a way forward. Will Aria help him find an answer, or will she step back from the ruthless world of politics? Gentle and kind, the true qualities of an angel, Luke Alistar is an Angelus who, despite being of high-born lineage, bears the cross of a heavy fate. The Angelus of Prophecy is a dark destiny that underpins the power of the Angelus realm, and Luke must decide to fight or to face his fate. Will Aria guide him towards his destiny or will she fight with him against it?

Takes on New Leadership Role at Agate, Joshua Axner Remains Committed to Drive Success Across All His Ventures

Bandung, 16 August 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), the biggest game developer in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, is pleased to have Joshua Axner step into the role of Interim Chief Business Development Officer (CBO). While taking on this strategic role at Agate, Joshua remains actively at other his ventures. Joshua’s ongoing leadership across these three ventures ensures smooth and effective operations, with no concerns regarding operational or financial stability. His ability to balance his triple focus allows him to contribute to drive innovation and excellence, contributing to the success of each venture. “I’m excited to take on this role at Agate while continuing to lead Gimbal Zen and Batara Studios. At these ventures, I established systems that now operate seamlessly and independently. I’m eager to bring that experience to Agate, where I can offer fresh perspectives and innovative strategies. This unique opportunity allows me to contribute to the growth and success of all ventures, and I’m looking forward to the exciting journey ahead,” said Joshua Axner, Interim Chief Business Development Officer Agate. Agate is enthusiastic about the positive impact Joshua’s leadership will have on the company. His goal is not merely to introduce changes but to empower local talent and enrich our work with a global perspective. By integrating his insights, Joshua aims to enhance the existing framework, helping to elevate Agate’s business output while staying true to its roots.

Agate Welcomes Joshua Axner to Leadership as Interim CBO and Announces the Debut of Akarmaut: Rootmare

Joshua Axner as its new Interim Chief Business Development Officer (CBO)

Agate strengthens its global expansion strategy with key leadership and an exciting new game development  Bandung, 15 August 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), the biggest game developer in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, is thrilled to welcome Joshua Axner as its new Interim Chief Business Development Officer (CBO). With over 15 years of experience in the gaming scene, Axner brings a deep understanding of market trends, business development strategies, and the dynamics of the global game industry that will strengthen and expand Agate’s business capacity in the global market.   The inclusion of Joshua Axner in Agate’s leadership is in line with the company’s efforts to continue solidifying its presence in the international market. With established business units in Canada, Germany, South Korea, and Japan, alongside ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the Americas, Agate is poised to further its growth on the global stage.   Shieny Aprilia, Co-Founder and CEO Agate expressed her enthusiasm in welcoming Joshua Axner to the Agate team. “Axner’s extensive experience and insights will play a role in strengthening our muscles and global expansion. We are confident that his leadership in the business development team will help Agate achieve new heights of success.”  Interim Chief Business Development Officer of Agate Joshua Axner  Axner’s role will focus on identifying new business opportunities and forging strategic partnerships, all in alignment with Agate’s commitment to global growth. His leadership is anticipated to accelerate Agate’s strategy of identifying and capitalizing on emerging opportunities across various regions.   “I’ve always believed in the incredible potential of Indonesian talent in the gaming industry. My career has focused on supporting others. I’ve built strong networks and led dedicated teams, giving me insight into the challenges our local talent faces. My mission is to connect these individuals with global opportunities, helping them shine on the world stage. By fostering collaboration and growth, I am committed to helping Agate gain the worldwide recognition it deserves,” said Joshua Axner, Chief Business Development Officer Agate.  New Game Development, Akarmaut: Rootmare Akarmaut: Rootmare Key Art  Following this significant leadership update, Agate is excited to announce the development of its new survival horror game, Akarmaut: Rootmare. The game promises a gripping experience with its distinctive combination of horror elements and immersive storytelling. Set in an Indonesian metropolis, Akarmaut: Rootmare plunges four university students in a nightmarish situation where their campus hospital has morphed into a labyrinth teeming with monstrous plant-zombie hybrids. Players must navigate this perilous environment, unravel the mystery behind the outbreak, and strategically fight to survive.    Key features of Akarmaut: Rootmare include:  A narrative-driven experience that explores the intricate relationships between the four characters  Exploration of the infected campus to uncover hidden secrets and clues  Survival gameplay against mutated creatures  Strategic resource management required for progression   As part of Agate’s ongoing efforts to refine and perfect Akarmaut: Rootmare, the game will be showcased to the public for the first time at Game Prime, held on August 17-18, 2024, at Mall Taman Anggrek, Jakarta. This event will provide an opportunity for Agate to gather valuable feedback and insights from the community, which will be instrumental in shaping the final version of the game.   Originally developed under the codename Project Dead, the project has now fully transitioned under Agate’s creative direction. As we move forward, Agate is actively seeking new partners to elevate Akarmaut: Rootmare to the next stage, further reflecting the company’s strong belief in the project’s potential.    Through the announcement of Akarmaut: Rootmare, Agate continues to showcase its dedication to innovation and its capability to create engaging content that resonates with both local and global audiences.   The game is currently available for wishlist on Steam, allowing eager players to stay updated on its progress and be among the first to experience Akarmaut: Rootmare upon its release.   Key art and the trailer for Akarmaut: Rootmare can be accessed via the following link: s.agate.id/presskit1508.   Follow the latest updates on Akarmaut: Rootmare on X through this link: https://x.com/rootmaregame. 

Agate Celebrates Indonesia Game Day (HARGAI) 2024, Continues to Drive Local Game Industry Growth

Agate is committed to continually inspiring the local game industry and bringing Indonesian games to the global stage.  Happy Indonesian Game Day by Agate.  Bandung, August 8, 2024 – In commemoration of Indonesia Game Day (HARGAI) 2024, Agate International (“Agate”), the largest game developer in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, continues to show its dedication to strengthening the Indonesian game industry and expanding its reach globally. This effort includes various initiatives to consolidate the Indonesian game industry and strengthen Agate’s position as a global player.  “The game industry is one of the creative industry sectors that has great economic potential and a large market share in Indonesia and globally. The global game market will continue to grow significantly. In 2023, the global game market will reach 228 billion USD, and it is predicted to reach 665 billion USD by 2030. In Indonesia, the game market is estimated to reach 2.5 billion USD in 2025 or equivalent to 36 trillion rupiah,” said Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno. Agate’s aggressive presence in the global game market is a form of the company’s support for the Indonesian government in realizing Indonesia’s ambition to become a game business player, not just a market for global games.  In celebration of HARGAI, Agate, in collaboration with UK-based game publisher PQube, announces the upcoming release of their newest fantasy-romance visual novel, “Celestia: Chain of Fate,” on Steam and Nintendo Switch on September 12th. “Celestia: Chain of Fate” is a spin-off from “Memories,” one of Agate’s popular visual novels enjoyed by players worldwide. This new title serves as a proof to Agate’s dedication to developing high-quality games and expanding the reach of the Indonesian game industry globally. The collaboration with PQube further solidifies Agate’s efforts to introduce the best works from local developers to a wider international audience.  The upcoming release of “Celestia: Chain of Fate” is a proof to Agate’s dedication to developing high-quality games and expanding the reach of the Indonesian game industry on a global scale. The collaboration with PQube, further solidifies Agate’s efforts to introduce the best works from local developers to a wider international audience. This HARGAI moment serves as a perfect opportunity for Agate to celebrate this achievement and strengthen its position as a major player in the global game industry.  As a leader in the national game industry, Agate sees opportunities in its ongoing efforts to strengthen the Indonesian game industry through global expansion. This step is expected to unite various talents and stakeholders in the Indonesian game industry, creating a supportive ecosystem where innovation and collaboration can thrive rapidly.  Shieny Aprilia, Co-Founder and CEO of Agate, said, “Indonesia Game Day is an important moment for us at Agate to reflect on the long journey we have traveled and to celebrate the incredible achievements of the domestic game industry. We also feel called to continue innovating and collaborating for the common progress in this industry. We believe that local talents have tremendous potential to create high-quality games that can compete internationally. With full support from various parties, we are confident in elevating the Indonesian game industry to a higher level and inspiring future generations to keep creating.”  As announced earlier this year, Agate successfully penetrated the global market with four business units represented in Canada, Germany, South Korea, and Japan, while also strengthening its team in the Americas. This global expansion is tangible proof that Agate has successfully brought the Indonesian game industry to the international stage.  “We are committed to leveraging this development by contributing more to the growth of the national game industry. We strive to enhance the quality of our games to meet global standards and ensure local talents can compete internationally. Our contribution also aims to bring local games to the global level,” concluded Shieny. 

Agate and PQube to Release ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ on Steam and Nintendo Switch on September 12

Enter a world of magic and romance in ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ – an immersive fantasy adventure with dazzling illustrations.  Celestia: Chain of Fate Bandung, 31 July 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), the biggest game development company in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, along with PQube is proud to release a new fantasy-romance visual novel, ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ on Steam and Nintendo Switch on September 12. Initially, ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ was one of the stories from ‘Memories,’ a visual novel game by Agate that was loved by players in Indonesia and around the world.  “‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ is a project very close to our hearts, the result of our team’s incredible hard work and dedication, even since the development and release of ‘Memories.’ In collaboration with PQube, we hope that Aria’s story and the world we have created will touch hearts and inspire many people this coming September,” said Co-Founder and CEO Shieny Aprilia.  A coming-of-age visual novel that follows the story of Aria, a unique hybrid, as she enrolls into Celestia Academy and must face an unknown world of Angelus, Daemon, and Half-bloods. At every turn Aria faces something new and unexpected, from strange relationship dynamics to royal hierarchies and dark prophecies, Aria is not one to ignore those in need.  With three main love interests, and many more friends to be made along the way, Aria will learn to control her magic, face her hybrid-blood, and maybe fall in love!  Main features:  Otome Visual Novel – Follow a captivating romantic fantasy about Angelus, Daemons and Half Bloods over 20+ hours of chapters!   Romanceable Leads – Discover the diverse personalities of your love interests across three main routes – ranging from the fiery passion in Val, to the gentle warmth of Luke, to the cold reserve of Ash. Build up affection and pick the man of your dreams!   Choices and Scenarios – Control the story by choosing options that best suit you! However, tread carefully, as there are various undesirable outcomes awaiting you.   Breath-taking illustrations – Immerse yourself in a story full of exquisite hand-crafted illustrations, brimming with intricate details. Progress will automatically unlock stunning special illustrations that enhance your experience.   Extra Stories! – No detail will be missed with the opportunity to discover more about your favourite characters! Each character will feature their own side story, providing you with the chance to delve deeper into their backgrounds and personalities!   Atmospheric Music – Enjoy the story accompanied by music, enhancing key moments, and enriching the overall experience with deeper immersion and heightened emotional depth.  About the story Aria’s life as the daughter of a Duke is about to change forever. She discovers her unexpected hybrid identity, as the descendant of Angelus and Daemon, and must make a choice in order to move forward. Compelled to accept an invitation to Celestia Academy to explore the world of magic, she leaves her precious family behind for a new journey in an unfamiliar land.   In this world of magic, Aria finds a purpose she is determined to fight for. She must become the top graduate in order for her wish to be granted, but winning is a team effort! Enter, the Trial of Three Realms – A team-based set of trials designed to test the mettle of the students. The location of the trials faced are determined by the races in the team, and Aria’s team has all of them, from Daemon to Angelus to Human, they must face a trial in each realm!   But each realm has their own challenges, different terrains and different people mean the challenges can be both mental and physical. It’s up to Aria to use her strength and her magic powers, to work together with her team in order to win the most points and become the ultimate graduate!   Before even reaching Celestia Academy, Aria encounters the three male leads through an unexpected event. It seems there is a thread of fate connecting Aria to Ash, Luke and Val. Beginning as strangers, continuing as teammates, becoming close friends that share their heavy burdens, and then, maybe more… Who will you choose for Aria to deepen her connection with?  Ash Winterlight is a half-angelus human, with a special royal heritage. Close to his chest he holds the dark struggles of his kingdom, and a desperate wish he will only share with those closest to him. A seemingly cold and standoffish disposition, Ash softens and melts in Aria’s presence. The one person who has managed to break through his defences.  Luke Alastair is an Angelus who, despite being of high-born lineage, bears the cross of a heavy fate. He is gentle and kind, an enigmatic yet warm presence who is emotionally supportive, and honest with his feelings. He may be soft-natured, but anyone treating Aria badly will bring out his dark-side!  Val De Lucifer a Daemon, who just like his surname suggests, comes from a famous lineage. A dark cloud hangs heavily over him, a tragic loss weighing him down with sadness. Despite this, Val is an energetic, charismatic presence. He may seem loud and rough around the edges at first, but breaking through his defences reveals a sweet, hidden core.  Watch the ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ announcement trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoMFCvOz4aE The demo for ‘Celestia: Chain of Fate’ is now available on PC Steam, featuring exclusive access to the first and second chapters. 

Level Up powered by Agate Unveils the Innovative Role of Gamification in Boosting Individual Retention by up to 90%

Left to right: Junialdi Dwijaputra, Head of Level Up powered by Agate; Liz Zeny Mery, Acting Deputy Assistant for Creative Economy Development at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment; Andy Djiwandono, Head of Sustainability & Digital Lending at Bank Jago  Jakarta, July 18, 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), through its sub-brand Level Up powered by Agate, introduced its book titled The Dawn of Fun: A Gamification Journey Through Trends, Case Studies, and Best Practices. This book delves into the significant role of gamification across various sectors by providing insights from current trends, case studies, and best practices. It demonstrates that gamification not only strengthens marketing strategies and brand development but also enhances user engagement and retention through game-based learning. This innovative approach offers tangible benefits in creating more engaging and meaningful experiences for both consumers and employees.    “Gamification is not just a tool for increasing brand engagement but an effective business strategy that enhances the output of learning and assessment processes. By integrating game elements into a work environment predominantly occupied by younger generations, companies can boost business performance from productivity, strengthen employee retention, and drive innovation,” said Head of Level Up powered by Agate Junialdi Dwijaputra.    The Three Key Roles of Gamification in Learning:    Motivating and Encouraging Engagement: 67% of individuals state that game-based learning is more engaging and motivating than traditional learning. This learning approach, through the use of technology, provides real-world context, keeping individuals interested and motivated to participate. Interaction and individual motivation to enhance their skills also increase with the presence of reward features as benchmarks for their achievements. Individuals participating in challenge-based gamification improve their performance by up to 89.45% compared to those who only listen to lectures.  Enhancing Cognitive Development: Game-based learning impacts affective, cognitive, and psychomotor aspects by increasing engagement, motivation, problem-solving abilities, emotional and practical skills. A study by the American Medical Association using fMRI technology showed three areas of brain growth in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and cerebellum after two months of playing digital games.  Strengthening Retention: Game-based learning can increase individual retention by up to 90%. This is because individuals can better recall information when they are actively involved in the learning process and have test scores above average by up to 40%.     Acting Deputy Assistant for Creative Economy Development at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment Liz Zeny Mery, stated, “The government is increasingly recognizing the transformative potential of gamification in education and training. Responding to the proven benefits of gamification in learning, the government plans to promote pilot programs that incorporate gamification into learning and training programs within Ministries/Agencies and State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).”    Gamification: An Effective Approach for Businesses to Better Connect with Millennials, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha    According to a report by Newzoo, 44% of Generation (Gen) Z and 48% of Gen Alpha interact with in-game content beyond just playing it. For content types, interactive videos are the top choice for Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. The adoption of game features or elements such as points, badges, levels, and performance charts into business initiatives can help effectively facilitate the learning process and achieve the ultimate goal of increasing brand engagement.    For example, Level Up powered by Agate collaborated with PT Bank Jago Tbk to develop Jago Money Quest, an interactive web-based financial education game accessible at https://JagoMoneyQuest.com.   Head of Sustainability & Digital Lending at Bank Jago Andy Djiwandono, explained that “We entrusted Level Up powered by Agate in the development of game-based learning, Jago Money Quest, to increase the awareness of Millennials and Gen Z about the importance of sustainable financial health. During the creation process, we experienced the potential of gamification in a precise, efficient, and effective manner through the implementation of the Level Up Gamification Framework.”    The Level Up Gamification Framework is an innovative framework combining academic theory and practical application, designed to help companies optimally leverage the potential of gamification tailored to various business needs. It consists of four stages: Define Main Game Purpose, Define Target Market & Persona, Build Core Gameplay, and Fulfill Technical Requirements.    To download a copy of The Dawn of Fun: A Gamification Journey Through Trends, Case Studies, and Best Practices, visit s.agate.id/mbtdof.    For more information about Level Up powered by Agate, visit agatelevelup.com.   

Agate Academy Launches TSA Game Fest with Ministry of Communication Informatics and West Java Tourism and Culture Office

Bandung, June 29, 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), through Agate Academy, in collaboration with the Digital Talent Scholarship (DTS) TSA from the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo) and supported by West Java Tourism and Culture Office (Disparbud), proudly announces the launch of TSA Game Fest. TSA Game Fest is part of the TSA (Talent Scouting Academy) series under the DTS Kominfo program, aligned with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology’s “Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka” program. The event aims to nurture Indonesian game industry talents by providing a golden opportunity for students to compete, learn, and showcase their game creations.   Co-Founder and CEO of Agate Shieny Aprilia, stated, “We are committed to supporting the development of the local game industry and providing a platform for young talents to express themselves through their work. TSA Game Fest is not just about game development but also about building networks and creating new opportunities for talents interested in this industry.”   TSA Game Fest offers a series of activities including competitions (Game Jam), training (Showcase), and exhibitions. The competition starts with the Game Jam phase, where 40 teams will compete to develop game demos within one week, starting from July 12 to July 21, 2024. Subsequent selections will choose the top 20 teams to proceed to an intensive training phase.   Acting Head of the Center for Professional Development and Certification at the Ministry of Communication and Informatics Anny Triana, said, “In the TSA Game Fest program, students will receive training and guidance related to game development, including practical experience in game competitions. The outcomes of this training can be converted into credit hours, serving as replacements for specific courses. Therefore, students wishing to participate must obtain a Letter of Recommendation from their respective universities following the provided format.”   Participants who pass the initial round will undergo hands-on training with experienced mentors in Programming, Game Design, Art, and Product Management, scheduled for August 2024. The exhibition will be the highlight, where the top 10 teams will showcase their work in Bandung on September 28-29, 2024. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the games created by these 10 teams, while judges will select the top 3 teams competing for a total prize of 30 million rupiah.   Registration requirements to participate in TSA Game Fest:  Active university students  Teams of 5 members  Create an individual account at https://digitalent.kominfo.go.id  Register your team at s.agate.id/tsagf    Agate Academy Team Lead Restya Winda Astari, said, “We invite all gamers and creative industry enthusiasts to join TSA Game Fest. Let’s support the development of the Indonesian game industry together.”   “The Application & Game subsector holds significant potential, with an annual growth rate of 13.41% and 6,167 business units. This subsector contributed Rp1.069 billion to Jabar Ekraf’s GDP, equivalent to 0.06% of West Java’s GDP in 2020,” said Head of Tourism Industry Department at West Java Tourism and Culture Office Rispiaga. “The West Java Tourism and Culture Office is committed to enhancing the Application & Game subsector through various activities. TSA Game Fest is a perfect complement to our application & game-related programs, which we hope will serve as an incubation catalyst for this subsector.”   For more information about TSA Game Fest, visit the official websites of Agate Academy and DTS Kominfo. 

Agate Actively Participates in the Development of Guidelines for Woman-Friendly Workplace in the Indonesian Gaming Industry

Agate Academy Team Lead Restya Winda Astari bottom-left with IWIG Project Manager Trianingsih top and IBCWE Project Officer bottom-right introducing the Guidelines for Female-Friendly Workspaces in the Indonesian Gaming Industry during an Instagram Live session on Monday, June 10, 2024.Bandung, June 10, 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), the leading game development company in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, proudly announces its active role in developing the Guidelines for Female-Friendly Workspaces in the Indonesian Gaming Industry. These guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for creating inclusive and female-friendly work environments within game companies in Indonesia. The development of these guidelines was led by Indonesian Women in Game (IWIG) with support from the National Commission on Violence Against Women, the Indonesia Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (IBCWE), and other industry stakeholders. CEO and Co-Founder of Agate Shieny Aprilia, stated, “Agate fully supports IWIG’s initiative in creating an inclusive and female-friendly work environment. We believe that diversity within teams is key to producing innovative and meaningful works. These guidelines will be a significant milestone in the history of the Indonesian gaming industry, serving as a foundational step in promoting equality and inclusion in this sector.”    “As part of the team that developed these guidelines, we are committed to ensuring that every woman working in the gaming industry has equal opportunities to grow and contribute. We hope these guidelines will provide clear guidance for creating a safe and supportive work environment for all,” added Agate Academy Team Lead Restya Winda Astari. According to a recent survey conducted by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) in collaboration with the Geena Davis Institute of Gender in Media, women occupy only about 30% of game developer positions globally. This gap highlights the urgent need to strengthen diversity initiatives within the industry. Women make up nearly half of the global gaming market, with 46% in America, 47% in Europe, 48% in Australia, and 37% in Asia. Despite some progress, gender disparity remains in the gaming industry. In Indonesia, the Indonesian Game Association (AGI) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) revealed that 80% of surveyed game studios in Indonesia have female employees, while the remaining 20% have no female representation. Based on this data, IWIG is committed to creating a female-friendly work environment through the development of these guidelines.Chairperson of Indonesian Women in Game (IWIG) Riris Marpaung, stated, “The development of these guidelines is a significant step towards achieving a more inclusive and woman-friendly workplace in gaming industry. We are grateful to all parties who have contributed, including National Commission on Violence Against Women, IBCWE, Agate, and other game studios, for their support and attention in the creation of these guidelines.” The guidelines comprise ten key points, including: Diversity and Inclusion Policies  Recruitment and Hiring Practices  Orientation and Integration  Professional Development  Working Hours and Workplace Accommodation  Promotion and Career Advancement  Rights to Protection, Health, and Well-being  Workplace Culture and Environment  Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Work  Monitoring and Reporting  Project Officer from IBCWE Esther Yobelita, stated, “The collaboration between IWIG, Agate, and IBCWE in developing these guidelines demonstrates our collective commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable industry. We hope these guidelines will serve as an example for other industries in implementing practices that support gender equality.”  Agate invites all stakeholders, including game companies, communities, and relevant institutions, to join us in committing to creating a more inclusive work environment for women in the gaming industry.   The complete guidelines can be downloaded via the following link: https://bit.ly/pedomanruangramahperempuan About IWIG Indonesian Women in Game (IWIG) is a community committed to supporting and advancing the development of all Indonesian women involved in the gaming industry. IWIG focuses on ongoing efforts to create a supportive and safe environment for its members. Through the promotion and empowerment of women in this industry, IWIG aims to develop the skills, knowledge, and experience of female talents. IWIG is dedicated to being a space where women can grow and contribute maximally to the gaming industry. Email: program.iwig@gmail.com; Instagram: womeningame_id; Medium: womeningame_id About IBCWE The Business Coalition for the Empowerment of Indonesian Women (IBCWE) is a coalition of companies committed to promoting women’s economic empowerment and gender equality. Our vision is to create a safe and inclusive workplace in Indonesia with missions (1) to raise awareness of the importance of gender equality in the workplace; (2) to increase women’s participation and representation in the workforce; (3) to encourage and support companies in attaining gender equality benchmarks and standards. IBCWE was formed with the support of the Australian Government through the Investing in Women program. For more information, visit: ibcwe.id 

Accelerating the Talents of the Indonesian Gaming Industry, Agate Academy Launches Agate Game Course for Teacher

The Agate Game Course for Teacher program curriculum is prepared with reference to SKKNI No. 18 of 2022 and presents three main classes: Game Programming, Game Design, and Game Art.  Photo: Agate Academy management along with the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment of the Republic of Indonesia (“Kemenko Marves”) at the launch of the Agate Game Course for Teacher.  Bandung, 30 May 2024 – Agate Academy, part of Agate International (“Agate”), which has a mission to accelerate the Indonesian games industry ecosystem by developing quality talent, today announced the launch of its newest program and strategic collaboration with educational institutions to expand its reach and the holistic impact of its training programs. Supported by the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment of the Republic of Indonesia (“Kemenko Marves”), Agate Academy launched the Agate Game Course for Teacher. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed, initiated by SMK Telkom Bandung. This collaboration underscores the link and match program initiative between vocational schools and the business and industrial sectors (DUDI), which includes teacher upskilling, curriculum alignment, and certification based on the Indonesian National Work Competency Standards (SKKNI). In line with Presidential Regulation (Perpres) Number 19 of 2024 concerning the Acceleration of Development of the National Games Industry, these programs were launched to support one of the policy’s initiatives: increasing human resources in the games industry. The government plans to involve educational institutions to train 1,200 workers, particularly game developers, with the goal of developing 3 to 5 superior multiplayer-based games. Additionally, the government is preparing to introduce a game-based curriculum in vocational high schools and higher education institutions to support the growth of the domestic gaming industry. By 2025, projected revenue from the gaming industry in Indonesia is estimated to reach $2.5 billion, equivalent to IDR 36 trillion, according to the new regulations. Acting Assistant Deputy for Creative Economy Development of Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs said, “We certainly welcome and support Agate’s initiative, in line with the various efforts that continue to be made by the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs and all related Ministries/Institutions, especially in improving educational standards for game development in Indonesia through quality national talent, in this case, the teachers. The Indonesian games industry still faces a major challenge, with local developers controlling only 0.5 percent of the national market. This is caused by several factors, one of which is the quality of talent not meeting industry standards. Therefore, collaborative efforts with local developers and stakeholders are key to accelerating the national games industry, especially considering Indonesia’s enormous potential.” Co-Founder and CEO of Agate, Shieny Aprilia, added, “We see many challenges and opportunities in the Indonesian gaming industry, particularly in local talent quality. Through Agate Academy, we aim to contribute by strategically increasing teachers’ capacities and collaborating with the government and educational institutions. We believe local talent can compete internationally, as evidenced by successes in both local and global industries.” Through the Agate Game Course for Teacher, participants will receive upskilling/reskilling programs using a curriculum based on SKKNI No. 18 of 2022. The curriculum includes game engines (Game Programming), 3D modeling and animation (Game Art), and mechanical and level design (Game Design). Training is divided into Standard and Custom types. Standard Training will be held online over 5 meetings, each lasting 3 hours, with a minimum of 10 participants. Custom training will be conducted online, offline, or hybrid with flexible duration and meeting numbers. Agate Academy currently boasts over 2,000 alumni, 30+ studios, and 50+ university partners. It actively runs various training programs, including those for teachers. Previously, Agate Academy conducted several teacher training series in collaboration with the Center for Quality Assurance Development of Vocational Education in the Maritime, Fisheries, Information, and Communication Technology Sector (BPPMPV KPTK), training 72 teachers in Metamesta and 3D art. Additionally, the Agate Game Course for Teachers was conducted with Bina Informatics Vocational School and SMKN 11 Semarang, focusing on game programming. Head of the BPPMPV KPTK Competency Improvement and Quality Assurance Team, Al. Azhari, said, “The training provided by Agate Academy is very relevant and practical in developing the skills needed today. The 72 teachers who have taken part in this training not only gained new knowledge about 3D art and the metaverse, but were also motivated to continue to innovate in their teaching process. We hope that this collaboration can continue and make a bigger contribution in producing quality talents in the gaming industry.” Some of Agate Academy’s main programs in 2024 include Company Visits and Agate Speakers to foster interest, Beginner Training programs such as the Agate Game Course and Unreal Engine Agate Game Course Classes, Intermediate Training including the Agate Game Course Portfolio Creation, Independent Study, and Agate Internship, and Advanced Training such as a Pitch Development Workshop. Since its founding in 2009, Agate has led and strengthened its position in the rapidly growing gaming industry for over a decade and a half, significantly transforming the gaming industry landscape in Indonesia and achieving success on the global stage, particularly in enhancing the quality of local gaming industry talent.