New Report on Canadian Video Game Industry

Canada’s video game industry continues to cement its role as a pillar of Canada’s new tech economy, according to new research conducted by Nordicity and published today by the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC). There are now nearly 600 active video game studios in Canada, generating 21,700 direct full-time jobs and contributing $3.7 billion to the country’s GDP, a 24% increase from 2015. The industry also supports an additional 18,900 indirect full-time jobs, accounting for a total employment impact of 40,600 full-time equivalent positions.

The Canadian video game industry creates high-paying and desirable jobs, offering an average salary of $77,300/year. Canadian studios continue to lead the industry with marquis franchise titles, new original IP and critically-acclaimed games that are pushing the boundaries of conventional norms. Overall, 2,100 video game projects were completed in Canada in 2016.