In This Game I Own The Rules
Did you know that Indonesia's gaming industry is one of the most promising industries in the country? According to a report by Newzoo, a market research firm specializing in gaming, Indonesia is the world's 16th biggest gaming market, with an expected growth rate of around 20% annually.
This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing number of smartphone users in the country, the popularity of local game developers, and the government's efforts to promote the industry. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Indonesia's gaming industry, its current state, and what the future holds for its players, developers, and enthusiasts.
The Rise of Mobile Gaming in Indonesia
Indonesia has one of the highest smartphone penetration rates in Southeast Asia, with more than 90 million active smartphone users. As a result, mobile gaming has become increasingly popular among Indonesians, with 97% of all gamers in the country playing mobile games.
The most popular mobile games in Indonesia are mobile MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) games, such as Mobile Legends and Arena of Valor, which account for around 30% of all mobile game downloads in the country. Other popular game genres include casual games, racing games, and strategy games.
One of the reasons why mobile gaming is so popular in Indonesia is because it's affordable and easily accessible. Most mobile games are free to download and play, and users can purchase in-game items and currency using mobile carriers' billing systems, making it easier for players without credit cards to make purchases.
The Success of Local Game Developers
Indonesia has a thriving community of game developers, with more than 556 game studios in the country. These studios have produced some of the most popular mobile games in the country, including Mobile Legends, West Legends: 3V3 MOBA, and Tahu Bulat.
One of the reasons why local game developers have been so successful is because they understand the local market and culture. Many of these games incorporate elements of Indonesian culture, such as local folklore, food, and traditional dress, making them more relatable and appealing to Indonesian gamers. Additionally, these games are often free-to-play, which makes them accessible to a wider audience.
The Government's Efforts to Promote the Industry
In recent years, the Indonesian government has made efforts to promote the gaming industry and attract foreign investment. In 2019, the government launched the "Making Indonesia 4.0" initiative, which aims to promote the development of the country's digital economy, including the gaming industry.
The government has also established several initiatives to support the industry, including tax incentives for game developers and the establishment of a national game development association, which aims to provide training, networking, and advocacy for local game developers. Additionally, the government has launched several gaming events and competitions, such as the Indonesia Game Show, which aims to showcase the country's gaming industry and talent to a global audience.
The Future of Indonesia's Gaming Industry
Indonesia's gaming industry has a bright future, with continued growth expected in the coming years. According to Newzoo, the country's gaming market is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2022, driven by a growing number of gamers and an increase in spending on in-game items and currency.
Moreover, the industry is expected to benefit from the government's continued support and promotion, as well as the increasing number of game developers and publishers in the country. Many major gaming companies, such as Tencent and Alibaba, have also shown interest in investing in the Indonesian gaming industry, which could bring further growth and development to the industry.
Conclusion
Indonesia's gaming industry is a promising and rapidly growing industry, driven by the increasing popularity of mobile gaming, the success of local game developers, and the government's support and promotion. The industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by a growing number of gamers, an increase in spending on in-game items and currency, and the continued support and investment of the government and major gaming companies. If you're a gamer or game developer in Indonesia, now is the perfect time to get involved in this exciting and flourishing industry.
