The UK Video Games Council is advocating for more government support to boost the country's gaming industry. The organization is pushing for assistance to mid-sized companies and the kind of political help that has boosted Turkey's industry. While the UK has a wealth of talent, it lacks the support at a government level found in other parts of the world.
Speaking at Pocket Gamer Connects 2026, Ustwo's Maria Sayans highlighted the lack of support for mid-sized companies, saying, 'One of the [priorities] is the lack of support to the medium-sized companies that go under the radar and yet have functioned in this country for so many years.' She also advocated for more incentives like 'loans and tax relief, at a scale that actually makes sense'.
Meanwhile, Miniclip CEO Saad Choudri argued that while the UK has all the talent, it lacks the government support found in other regions. He pointed out that the Turkish government has put out help to support user acquisition funding, giving a cash rebate back to studios up to a million dollars. The UK government isn't even close to setting up something like that.
The UK Video Games Council was formed in June 2025 as a means of the government having a better relationship with representatives from the industry. However, the board has faced criticism, including from the IWGB Game Workers union, which felt that the council should have better representation. Meanwhile, the UK Games Industry Shadow Council has also been formed to address 'good and poor practices' in the sector.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the UK has creativity and a wealth of talent, it often does this on its own. If I had to start a 100-person studio today, I would not do it in the UK. And most people here would say the same. So, what do you think? Do you agree or disagree with the UK Video Games Council's push for more government support? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
