Washington’s video game industry has grown alongside some of the world’s most influential technology and creative companies. Global industry leaders, independent studios and emerging developers work within an ecosystem strengthened by Washington’s expertise in software engineering, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and digital media.

But technology is only part of the story. Writers, artists, animators, designers, musicians and sound professionals bring the creative talent that turns technology into experiences people want to play. The movement of people, ideas and expertise across gaming, technology and the broader creative economy continues to fuel new companies, new collaborations and new ways to play.

We are developing the next generation of gaming talent through our colleges, universities, specialized training programs and career-connected learning. Students build skills across game development, programming, design, animation, digital arts and sound—reflecting the same mix of technical and creative expertise that powers the industry.

That pipeline begins well before college. Washington students can explore game design and development through specialized skills centers and career and technical education programs, while higher education programs prepare graduates for careers across the industry. Together, these pathways help connect emerging talent with an established ecosystem of studios, developers and technology companies.

From classroom to career

• DigiPen Institute of Technology and DigiPen Academy – Degree, pre-college and career-connected programs spanning game design, programming, art and animation and music and sound design.
• Washington Network for Innovative Careers (WANIC) – State-funded career and technical education programs that allow eligible high school students to explore game design, video game programming and related creative disciplines, with opportunities to earn high school and college credit.
• Lake Washington Institute of Technology Game Design and Development – Game design and development programs combining art, 3D modeling, programming, game mechanics and animation.

Nine Washington colleges offer video game-related programs, creating multiple pathways for students to turn their technical and creative interests into careers

Washington’s gaming ecosystem extends well beyond its global companies. Independent studios, startups and individual developers bring new voices, original concepts and entrepreneurial energy to an industry built on experimentation and creativity.

That community is supported by organizations and networks that help developers connect, collaborate and grow. The Washington Interactive Network works to strengthen the state’s interactive media industry, while Seattle Indies brings developers together to share ideas, test games, build skills and make industry connections. These relationships help emerging creators tap into the same deep pool of technical and creative talent that has made Washington a global center for gaming.

• Washington Interactive Network (WIN) – Connects companies, talent and resources across Washington’s interactive media industry and supports emerging companies through industry programs and connections. WIN’s mission is specifically to promote, nurture and grow Washington’s interactive media cluster.
• Seattle Indies – A nonprofit community for independent game developers offering networking, professional development, feedback and opportunities to showcase their work. This year’s Seattle Indies Expo  is now in it’s 16th year, received a record 115 submissions, with 41 games selected for the annual showcase.

Games created in Washington reach players around the world. Digital distribution gives developers direct access to global audiences, while international partnerships connect studios with publishers, investors and new markets.

Washington companies don’t have to navigate those markets alone. The Washington State Department of Commerce helps businesses make international connections through market research, business matchmaking, trade missions and industry events such as Gamescom. Our international trade specialists and global network help companies identify opportunities, build relationships and expand into new markets.