Video games have become one of the most popular forms of entertainment globally, and Canada has made an impressive mark in this multi-billion dollar industry. As we celebrate National Video Games Day on September 12th, it’s time to shine a spotlight on Canada’s growing influence and contribution to the world of gaming. Whether it is cutting-edge game design, industry-leading studios, or academic programs that prepare the next generation of game developers, Canada is a hub for video game excellence.
Canada is the third-largest producer of video games in the world, with industry revenues exceeding $5.5 billion. Canadian cities like Montreal, Vancouver, and Toronto are known as gaming capitals, drawing talent from across the globe. Some of the most iconic video game titles have Canadian origins, and Canadian developers continue to push the envelope in gameplay, storytelling, and design.
According to the Entertainment Software Association of Canada, more than half of all Canadians are gamers – 23 million strong, with an average age of 34. There are over 48,000 full-time jobs in the Canadian game industry, with the average industry worker earning $75,900.
Among Canada’s most prominent contributions are series such as Assassin’s Creed, Mass Effect, Dead Rising, and Cuphead. These games and many others have earned international acclaim, showcasing the artistic and technical prowess of Canadian studios.
Canada is home to more than 900 video game studios, including some of the biggest and most influential in the world. Here's a look at some of the top players:
Beamdog (Edmonton)
Beamdog is well-known for remastering classic Dungeons & Dragons RPGs like Baldur's Gate and Planescape: Torment. The studio's dedication to revitalizing iconic games from the '90s has earned them a strong reputation in the RPG community.
Behaviour Interactive (Montreal)
Behaviour Interactive is the largest independent video game studio in Canada, best known for Dead by Daylight, a wildly successful multiplayer survival horror game. The studio has a reputation for engaging gameplay and regular updates that keep the gaming community engaged.
BioWare (Edmonton and Montreal)
BioWare is renowned for its role-playing games (RPGs), with landmark franchises like Mass Effect and Dragon Age. Known for deep storytelling, complex characters, and immersive worlds, BioWare has established a loyal fanbase across the globe.
Digital Extremes (London, ON)
Digital Extremes is best known for their popular online multiplayer games Unreal and Warframe, which have drawn massive player bases over the years. The studio's expertise in creating fast-paced action games continues to set them apart.
EA (Montreal and Vancouver)
Electronic Arts (EA) has a significant presence in Canada with studios in both Vancouver and Montreal. EA Vancouver is especially known for its work on popular sports franchises like FIFA and NHL, while EA Montreal has contributed to titles like Army of Two.
Eidos Montreal
Eidos Montreal is known for high-profile action-adventure titles, including Tomb Raider, Thief, Deus Ex, and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. Their games often emphasize deep storylines, choices, and immersive gameplay mechanics.
Next Level Games (Vancouver)
Acquired by Nintendo in 2021, Next Level Games has been behind successful titles like Transformers, Luigi’s Mansion, and Mario Strikers. Their partnership with Nintendo has solidified their reputation for developing quality games that appeal to a wide range of players.
Radical Entertainment (Vancouver)
Known for games like Prototype and Crash Bandicoot, Radical Entertainment has created action-packed open-world games that offer players freedom and unique abilities. Although the studio has shifted to a supportive capacity under Activision, its past successes left a lasting impact.
Relic Entertainment (Vancouver)
Specializing in real-time strategy games, Relic Entertainment has developed highly acclaimed titles like Homeworld, Company of Heroes, and Warhammer. Their games are known for their strategic depth and strong community following.
Rockstar Toronto
As part of the Rockstar family, Rockstar Toronto has contributed to the development of key titles in the Grand Theft Auto series and other Rockstar projects. Their involvement in creating highly polished, immersive worlds continues to be critical for Rockstar’s success.
Ubisoft (Montreal, Quebec, and Toronto)
Ubisoft has multiple studios across Canada, with Montreal being the largest. They have created some of the most successful franchises, including Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Watch Dogs, Prince of Persia, and Rayman. Ubisoft's innovative approach to game design and open-world development has made them a leader in the global gaming industry.
WB Games Montreal
Warner Bros Games Montreal is best known for Batman: Arkham Origins and their work on Gotham Knights. The studio focuses on action-adventure titles with a strong emphasis on compelling narratives and combat systems.
Canada’s success in the gaming world is backed by a robust education system that supports a variety of career paths in the industry. From designing characters and user interfaces to keeping gaming networks secure, there’s no shortage of educational programs to help aspiring game developers break into the field. Here are some key pathways:
UI/UX Design
User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design are crucial to creating intuitive and visually appealing games. Courses specializing in UI/UX Design are available across Canada.
Software Development
Game development relies on strong programming skills. Canadian schools offer various Software Development and computer science programs, preparing students to code the next generation of video games.
Graphic Design
With visually stunning graphics being a key aspect of modern games, Graphic Design skills are in high demand. Students can pursue programs that focus on 2D and 3D design, animation, and visual effects.
Digital Marketing
Promoting games is just as important as developing them. A background in Digital Marketing can help position new releases for success in the competitive gaming marketplace. Courses cover social media, search engine optimization (SEO), and game-specific marketing strategies.
Web Design
Websites are often the first interaction gamers have with a title. Programs in Web Design teach students how to create engaging and user-friendly websites that capture the essence of a game and attract audiences.
Mobile App Developer
Mobile gaming is on the rise, and there’s a growing need for skilled app developers. Canadian programs on Mobile App Development teach students the skills necessary to design games for iOS and Android platforms.
Network Administrator
Keeping online games running smoothly requires skilled network administrators. These professionals ensure stable and secure connections, especially for multiplayer games. As such, programs in Network Administration are very popular across Canada.
Cybersecurity
As games increasingly move online, cybersecurity has become a top priority for gaming companies. Cybersecurity programs teach students how to protect networks and data, a vital role in today’s gaming ecosystem.
Help Desk Analyst
Troubleshooting and solving technical issues are essential in gaming companies. Help Desk Analysts are the backbone of technical support, and many Canadian institutions offer programs to prepare students for this in-demand role.
Canada has solidified itself as a powerhouse in the video game industry. From major studios developing world-class games to a growing community of indie developers, Canada’s contributions to gaming continue to shape the global market. And with numerous educational opportunities available across the country, aspiring game developers have plenty of paths to turn their passion for gaming into a thriving career.
Celebrate National Video Games Day by exploring the incredible gaming achievements from coast to coast! If you’re looking to start creating virtual worlds of your own, get in touch with ABM College today and we will help you level up your career options! You can also read more exciting blogs right here.
.jpg)
Get started on the road to becoming an ABM College graduate today with our free information kit. In it, you will learn about all of the exciting programs we offer, our philosophy, information about our campuses, and lots more.
.svg){kind=icon}
