🎮 May Briefing 2: Next Steps for the UK Video Games Industry

As the UK video games sector grows in economic, cultural, and technological influence, stakeholders across industry, policy, and academia gathered at the Westminster Media Forum to chart a path forward. The conference, titled “Next Steps for the UK Video Games Industry,” served as a timely and critical discussion platform following a string of policy developments, including the Autumn Budget 2024, the new Industrial Strategy (Invest 2035), and the Online Safety Act 2023.

With keynote speakers such as Nick Poole (Ukie), Paul Durrant (UK Games Fund), and Lisa Opie (Ubisoft/Screenskills), the forum placed a strong emphasis on ensuring long-term sustainability, creativity, and competitiveness in the UK’s games ecosystem.

The event was well attended by representatives from across the spectrum of the industry — including legal experts, developers, educators, publishers, policymakers, and civil society groups — all of whom brought unique perspectives on how the UK games sector can best navigate rapid change. Beyond speeches, the day featured breakout sessions and stakeholder Q&As focused on granular policy questions, ranging from funding models and regulatory clarity to diversity benchmarks and international alignment.

A Sector at a Strategic Crossroads

The Video Games Expenditure Credit (VGEC) continues to be a vital mechanism for encouraging development activity in the UK. Several speakers praised its clarity and impact, but urged government to provide long-term assurances. Similarly, the UK Games Fund was highlighted as an essential tool for nurturing indie studios and fostering innovation — but also one that requires further resourcing to meet demand.

Meanwhile, the Industrial Strategy and Invest 2035 were discussed as broader economic frameworks that could help position the UK as a global leader in digital entertainment, provided the games sector is explicitly included and consulted throughout implementation.

Panelists also discussed the UK’s unique position as a cultural and linguistic bridge between North America and Europe, emphasizing the opportunity to leverage this to attract inward investment and drive exports. Some suggested that a dedicated export strategy for games — akin to support provided to the film and TV sectors — could enhance visibility and economic returns.

AI, IP, and Digital Fairness

A key thread was the rapidly evolving legal landscape surrounding generative AI. With the Government consulting on AI and copyright, panellists underscored the need for robust IP protection — especially for smaller studios and individual creators. There was strong support for ensuring AI development and deployment happens responsibly, transparently, and with artist rights safeguarded.

In parallel, the European Commission’s Fitness Check on EU Consumer Law and the forthcoming Digital Fairness Act were cited as key developments to watch for studios operating internationally.

Legal professionals present emphasized that many developers — particularly SMEs — lack access to specialized legal counsel, which leaves them vulnerable to emerging IP risks. To address this, several proposals were floated, including pro bono legal support programs, clearer government guidance, and better integration of legal literacy into early-stage funding schemes.

Investment, Inclusion, and Skills

Attracting investment to UK games companies — particularly in a global funding landscape that often favours scale — remains a pressing concern. There were calls for better incentives, as well as clearer routes for international talent, especially in light of the new Immigration White Paper.

Several sessions focused on safeguarding, online behaviour, and the impact of the Online Safety Act — with an emphasis on ensuring studios, platforms, and regulators can work together to protect users, especially children, without stifling innovation.

The need for stronger education and skills pipelines — and clarity on how the Growth and Skills Levy will replace the Apprenticeship Levy — was raised repeatedly, particularly in light of emerging technologies like VR and Narrative VR, where the UK has strong potential to lead.

Speakers also stressed the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of the industry. Data presented by Ukie and other partners revealed persistent disparities in workforce representation, particularly among senior leadership and technical roles. Delegates called for more structured mentoring programs, targeted scholarships, and inclusive recruitment pathways.

In terms of infrastructure, regional hubs such as Dundee, Leamington Spa, and Cardiff were highlighted as vital ecosystems. The need for enhanced broadband connectivity, co-working spaces, and regional tax incentives was discussed as part of a broader “levelling up” strategy for digital economies beyond London.

What’s Next?

The UK video games industry has both momentum and opportunity — but also real challenges. Legal and regulatory clarity, funding support, and investment in people and IP will be key pillars in shaping the next chapter.

Crucially, speakers noted that cross-sector collaboration must become the norm, not the exception. Whether it’s public-private partnerships, interdisciplinary academic research, or coordinated industry lobbying, the road ahead will require unified voices and agile frameworks.

At ELN, we’ll continue tracking developments across these fronts — and their implications for the legal future of games.