Agate Welcomes Joshua Axner to Leadership as Interim CBO and Announces the Debut of Akarmaut: Rootmare
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.
15 Years of Leadership in the Gaming Industry: Agate Achieves ISO/IEC 27001: 2022 Certification, Bolstering Global Expansion Commitment to Data Security
Agate’s Management receiving ISO 27001 certification The certification marks Agate’s further commitment in continuing its growth journey, which includes efforts to consolidate the Indonesian gaming industry Bandung, 24 April 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), the largest game development company in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, celebrated its 15-year leadership in the gaming industry by successfully attaining ISO/IEC 27001: 2022 certification for its information security management systems. This accomplishment underscores Agate’s commitment to global expansion and reinforces its position as a powerhouse in the Indonesian gaming sector by ensuring company data and information adhere to international standards. ISO/IEC 27001: 2022, a leading global standard, provides a comprehensive framework for managing information security risks through the establishment of an Information Security Management System (ISMS), safeguarding critical assets from cyber threats. This certification demonstrates the company’s dedication and integrity in meeting regulatory requirements, driving continuous quality improvement, and enhancing stakeholder trust in Agate. Since its establishment in 2009, Agate has spearheaded and solidified its presence in the rapidly evolving gaming industry for over a decade and a half, embarking on an extraordinary journey that reshaped Indonesia’s gaming landscape and propelled global success. According to a Newzoo report, the global gaming market is projected to reach $189.3 billion by 2024, with sustained growth anticipated this year. Agate managed to record robust revenue growth last year of 75.74% (year-on-year) from international clients and 24.26% (year-on-year) from domestic clients, despite prevailing sentiments in the global gaming industry, further substantiating this momentum. The majority of this positive growth stems from full-cycle development services, including co-development, underscoring Agate’s potential to deliver high-quality gaming experiences and foster strong partnerships with global business associates. Shieny Aprilia, Co-Founder and CEO of Agate, remarked, “Agate’s 15-year journey has been pivotal for our growth. We take pride in our achievements, particularly in attaining ISO/IEC 27001: 2022 certification, and remain committed to innovation, delivering unforgettable gaming experiences worldwide. Looking ahead, we aim to continue our growth trajectory by consolidating Indonesia’s gaming industry, expanding our focus beyond game development to other ecosystem verticals, enabling us to make a more profound impact on the local and global gaming landscape.” Cipto Adiguno, Chief Strategy Officer of Agate, added, “The ISO/IEC 27001: 2022 certification marks a significant milestone in our global expansion endeavors, especially as we extend our business footprint into international markets through diverse strategies and ongoing projects. This standard underscores our commitment to upholding the trust of our business partners, particularly on a global scale, as we endeavor to serve as a reliable game development partner to prominent players in the global gaming industry, and data security becomes a crucial factor.” “Currently, Agate has global representation in Canada, Germany, South Korea, and is developing a representative team in the Americas. By achieving ISO/IEC 27001: 2022 certification, we hope to continue to reach global market share and continue to expand our reach across the world, bringing innovation and positive impact through immersive gaming experiences to millions of players around the world. We believe that collaboration, creativity, and dedication are fundamental to Agate’s success in navigating the dynamic global market,” Cipto concluded. With a steadfast commitment to creativity, quality, and innovation, Agate has successfully launched numerous acclaimed game titles both nationally and internationally including Valthirian Arc Hero School Story 2, Memories: My Story, My Choice, Football Saga 2, Earl Grey and This Rupert Guy, and 250+ other games. Currently, Agate focuses on strengthening its B2B2C business to further enhance its expansion strategy with three main strategies, including the development of its global representative teams, leveraging its global network in the gaming industry to strengthen the gaming ecosystem in Indonesia while continuously improving its work quality through three successful Research and Development (R&D) project initiatives, and further developing the skills of local talents and the quality of leadership to accelerate the growth of the gaming industry in the country through Agate Academy.
Agate Serves as the Host for Bandung Global Game Jam 2024, Continuing Its Efforts to Nurture Local Game Development Talents
As the host of prestigious global events, Agate is committed to consistently contributing to the enhancement of capabilities among local game development talents. The Bandung Global Game Jam 2024 located at Agate Headquarter, January 26th-28th, 2024. Bandung, January 30th 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), the largest game developer in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, through Agate Academy has partnered with the Game Dev Community Bandung, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, the Department of Culture and Tourism of West Java Province, the Indonesian Game Association (AGI), Axioo, Pongo, Indigo Telkom, and GU Studio to host the Global Game Jam 2024. The event specifically caters to the Bandung jam site and took place from January 26 to 28, 2024, at Agate Headquarter, Level Up Building, Summarecon Bandung Area, West Java. The Global Game Jam is the world’s largest annual game creation event, held simultaneously at over 800 locations worldwide. It involves thousands of game developers collaborating to create games within a 48-hour timeframe. By providing venue facilities, Agate has created an ideal environment for participants to develop creative ideas for games that will be introduced to the public. This initiative is in line with Agate’s commitment to continually support the growth of the local and global gaming industry, particularly by fostering local talents. This year, the Global Game Jam embraced the theme “Make Me Laugh,” with the aim of inspiring participants to create gaming experiences that evoke laughter and humor for players. The Global Game Jam in Bandung stands out as the jam site with the highest number of participants in Indonesia, boasting 108 participants forming 23 teams and producing a total of 24 games within the 48-hour timeframe. The games developed during the event will be publicly available, including their source code and assets. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for these games will remain with the respective teams or participants who created them. This event not only celebrates creativity but also fosters collaboration among game development talents. In addition to Bandung, the Global Game Jam is held in various other cities across Indonesia, such as Bogor, Batam, Surabaya, Malang, Medan, Palembang, Solo, and Tangerang. Cipto Adiguno, Chief Strategy Officer Agate, said, “We are committed to consistently contributing by providing a platform for both novice and experienced game developers to collaborate, enhance creativity, and refine their skills in game development. With the conclusion of the Global Game Jam 2024, we believe that new talents and innovative games have emerged. Agate’s participation in this event is one of our ways to contribute to the gaming ecosystem in Indonesia and globally.” Barli Achmad Jabbar, Chairman of the Game Dev Community Bandung, stated, “We are excited to see the tremendous enthusiasm, with the number of participants in GGJ Bandung doubling compared to the previous year. We are increasingly motivated to actively collaborate with established studios to facilitate them in honing not only their game development skills but also their business development. We extend our gratitude to all involved, including Agate, which provided facilities for the implementation of GGJ over the past three days.” The gaming industry in Indonesia has demonstrated extraordinary growth year after year. Agate, as a key player, continues to reinforce its commitment to supporting the growth and advancement of this industry. Through Agate Academy, the company is devoted to cultivating the skills and knowledge of local game developers, nurturing a more competent generation prepared to compete in an increasingly challenging global market. Restya Winda Astari, Head of Agate Academy, added, “At Agate Academy, we recognize the pivotal role of continuous learning in the gaming industry. Global Game Jam provides a unique opportunity for game development talents to refine their skills, engage in innovative projects, and connect with other talents participating in the event. We are thrilled to actively contribute to the growth and development of both the national and global gaming communities.” Agate Academy has been attended by over 500 participants enrolled in the Agate Game Course, achieving a success rate exceeding 40%, which surpasses the industry standard for online courses ranging from 5% to 15%. As of the year 2023, Agate Academy has listed more than 2000 alumni, 20 mentors, and 10 hiring partners who have significantly contributed to the talent industry. The Agate Game Course offers 8 courses for participants, including Game Developer 101, Low Poly 3D Modeling & Texturing, Basic 3D Character Animation, 2D Physic-based Game Programming, 3D Physic-based Game Programming, 3D Basic Hardsurface Modeling and Texturing, and AI Game Programming.
Agate Navigates the 2024 Game Industry Trends, Strengthens Its B2B2C Business and Global Expansion
Envisioning 2024 as a rebound year for the gaming industry, Agate continues to explore the trends both locally and globally, including through the launch of Vertx Break, a sub-brand focused on game-ready high-quality 3D Stylized Art. (left to right) Cipto Adiguno, Chief Strategy Officer Agate, Shieny Aprilia, Co-Founder dan CEO Agate, dan Ar Cahyadi Indra, Head of Vertx Break powered by Agate during Agate Media Outlook 2024 Bandung, January 16th, 2024 – Agate International (“Agate”), the largest game development company in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, is committed to continually expanding its global business reach as a credible game development partner and a key driver of the gaming industry’s growth in Indonesia. Recognizing the massive potential of the gaming industry on both a local and global scale, along with the growing demand for artistic services in game development, Agate also introduces its new sub-brand, Vertx Break powered by Agate, which focuses on delivering high-quality and game-ready 3D Stylized Art, targeting AA-scale game developers and the European gaming industry. Entering 2024, the video game market is projected to reach a revenue of USD 282.30 billion, marking a 13% increase. It is estimated to grow at an annual rate of 8.76% between 2024 and 2027, resulting in a projected market volume of USD 363.2 billion in 2027 (Statista.com). Additionally, several aspects are predicted to thrive in this industry sector, including the continued dominance of franchise games, the possibility of introduction of new consoles to the market which expected to create numerous opportunities for game developers worldwide and a surge in Artificial Intelligence (AI), which will continue to accelerate the processes of game production and development. (Newzoo.com, GamesIndustry.biz) Shieny Aprilia, Co-Founder and CEO of Agate, stated, “We believe that this year will usher in an exciting new chapter for the gaming industry. We are determined to continue innovating and leading change in line with the industry trends, and committed to crafting games that not only entertain but also shape cultural icons and competitive innovators. With the numerous global partnerships we have established, we are confident in our ability to lead the Indonesian gaming industry to thrive on the world stage.” This year, Agate focuses on strengthening its B2B2C (Business-to-Business-to-Consumer) business to further enhance its expansion strategy. The first strategy includes the development of representative teams within the American continent–as Agate is currently having 4 representatives in Canada, Germany, South Korea, and Japan. Secondly, Agate leverages its global network in the gaming industry to strengthen the gaming ecosystem in Indonesia, while continuously improving its work quality through three successful Research and Development (R&D) project initiatives. Thirdly, Agate is committed to further developing the skills of local talents and the quality of leadership to accelerate the growth of the gaming industry in the country through Agate Academy. Cipto Adiguno, Chief Strategy Officer at Agate, stated, “We view this year as the rebound year for the gaming industry, resulting in an exceptional opportunity to further enhance Agate’s position as a global game development partner. In order to drive these ongoing efforts, we are proud to introduce our new sub-brand, Vertx Break, a solution to create immersive gaming experiences through high-quality visuals. Through Vertx Break, we aim to diversify our business and continue our focus on global expansion, adding new muscle to Agate’s proven portfolios in the global gaming scenes.” Vertx Break powered by Agate is focused on producing 3D Stylized Art, providing services for 3D Character, 3D Equipment & Outfit, 3D Environment Props, and 3D Hard Surface. Vertx Break expands its business through the creative innovation of its talents, combining technical expertise with artistic vision, leveraging Agate’s experience in crafting games using Unreal Engine and Unity. This combination enables Vertx Break powered by Agate to not only be visually attractive, but also ready to be applied to game products as a whole. Ar Cahyadi Indra, Head of Vertx Break powered by Agate, added, “We aim to strengthen Agate’s presence in certain game development verticals focusing on servicing game-ready high-quality 3D Stylized Art for AA scale developers, where we will be able to build more relevant conversations with our art outsourcing business strategy. Our unique approach as a game art development partner that is resourceful and adaptable to the needs of 3D Art Development allows our partners to save more time on adjustments and improvements when collaborating with Agate.” In the past year, Agate consistently played a role in promoting the local gaming industry, participating in over 35 international events, most of which were held in Europe and America. Additionally, Agate formed new partnerships with five global companies, namely ISKRA, Naver Z (ZEPETO), PQube, Ifland, and Sekuya. Agate also released 14 global projects and initiated 4 exciting game projects, experiencing an increase in 2023 compared to the previous year, solidifying its position as a trusted game developer. As the home of talented young game developers in Indonesia, Agate instills values that serve as guidelines for its teams within the company, namely Positivity, Collaboration, Excellence, and Level Up. The hope is that Agate can become a place where various talents, cultures, and backgrounds come together to create an enjoyable experience, while crafting groundbreaking games.
