The UK government has launched a new UK Video Games Council to bolster and promote the country's gaming industry, aligning with the broader Creative Industries Sector Plan announced in June 2025, which includes a £30 million Games Growth Package.

This initiative is seen as a major milestone by industry leaders, positioning the UK as a global leader in creativity and innovation within the gaming sector.

The UK’s gaming industry is highly valuable, worth approximately £7.8 billion ($10.6 billion), with over 28,000 staff across 1,757 studios, and mobile gaming remains the most lucrative platform.

The council was established at the request of the UK Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism, Sir Chris Bryant, who emphasized the sector’s importance as a world-leading creative industry.

Led by CEO Jason Kingsley of Rebellion and co-chaired by Nick Button-Brown of Outright Games, the council includes industry leaders from diverse sectors such as AAA, indie, mobile, and services, representing a broad spectrum of expertise.

Members include prominent figures from organizations like Ukie, TIGA, and major studios such as Larian, Chucklefish, Microsoft, and Ustwo Games, reflecting a diverse and influential group.

Nick Button-Brown highlighted the importance of industry representation and government dialogue, with the council serving as a bridge to ensure decisions are informed by industry insights.

The council will meet twice a year with Sir Chris Bryant to provide strategic advice on fostering growth, maximizing economic, cultural, and educational impacts, and exploring international collaboration.

This move marks a significant step toward improving industry-government relations, aiming to elevate the sector’s profile and influence policy, though progress will be gradual due to the biannual meeting schedule.

Upcoming industry events include the sold-out Pocket Gamer Connects London and the upcoming Pocket Gamer Connects Shanghai on July 30, 2025, alongside listings of recent game releases and new opportunities like a national Gaming and Esports Centre in Sunderland.

The UK government’s broader strategy includes supporting growth through initiatives like the £30 million Games Growth Package and fostering international collaboration, innovation, and skills development.

Industry leaders see this as a pivotal moment to recognize the UK’s world-class talent and economic contributions, with the goal of positioning the UK as a global hub for game development and technological progress.

Despite recent challenges such as layoffs and cancellations, the UK industry continues to show resilience with regional funding and new industry events, signaling ongoing growth and opportunity.