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Saudi Arabia: NEOM Media joins hands with Global Game Publishers to empower startups

 

NEOM Media launches 'Publishing Partner Network'

NEOM Media’s Gaming division has announced the launch of its ‘Publishing Partner Network’, an integral part of its ‘Level Up’ Accelerator Program designed to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s gaming ecosystem. The initiative has already secured partnerships with four leading publishers: Kwalee, Sandsoft, Tamatem Games, and Black Smoke Studios. These collaborations aim to connect NEOM’s gaming startups with global publishing giants, enhancing their visibility and growth potential.

Building on NEOM Media’s commitment to fostering local game studios, the Publishing Partner Network provides funding, mentorship, and access to global markets for young Saudi game developers. By bridging local talent with international expertise, the initiative seeks to attract investors, media attention, and international talent to the region. This program cements NEOM Media’s role as a driving force in the Saudi and MENA gaming industries.

 

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Toby Evan-Jones, Executive Director and Head of Gaming at NEOM Media, emphasized the program's significance:
“At NEOM Media, we are dedicated to supporting the local game development community. Through strategic partnerships and talent development, we aim to create a sustainable gaming ecosystem that nurtures startups and elevates them on a global stage. Our publishing partners are key to providing critical access, valuable connections, and enhanced visibility, ensuring our startups thrive.”

Partner organizations expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration:

·         Dean Day, Founder of Black Smoke Studios (Finland):
“We’re passionate about fostering innovation in game development, and NEOM Media’s Level Up Accelerator offers an exciting platform for collaboration. We’re thrilled to contribute to the growth of the KSA gaming ecosystem.”

·         Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Ajlan, Managing Director at Sandsoft:
“Saudi Arabia’s gaming industry has immense potential. Joining NEOM Media’s Publishing Partner Network enables us to provide resources and insights to local talent, bridging them with international markets and championing authentic voices from the region.”

·         John Wright, Vice President of Mobile Games at Kwalee:
“This partnership aligns with our mission to create the most enjoyable games for global players. NEOM Media’s initiative accelerates opportunities for talented game studios to succeed on the global stage.”

·         Hussam Hammo, Founder and CEO of Tamatem Games:
“Being part of this network reinforces our commitment to Saudi Arabia, where many of our users are based. Collaborating with NEOM Media amplifies local talent’s visibility across the MENA region and beyond.”

 

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Since its 2023 launch, NEOM’s Level Up Accelerator has supported 23 startups, achieving significant milestones. Notable successes include:

  • Starvania, a portfolio studio, earning two prestigious awards.
  • Fahy Studios, becoming the first Saudi gaming startup to secure an international publishing deal with Kwalee.

NEOM actively connects startups with global markets, showcased through its presence at Gamescom 2024, the premier gaming industry conference in Germany.

The initiative also promotes inclusivity and education through programs like ‘She Jams’, which attracted 534 participants from 32 countries this year, and the ‘Game Dev Challenge’ high school program, training students in game development across Saudi Arabia.

Through these efforts, NEOM Media is redefining the region’s gaming landscape and creating a sustainable future for local and global gaming talent.

Source: Zawya

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