The Danish Institute for Game Development will distribute a grant pool of 15 million Danish kroner this year, marking a significant step in supporting the country’s rich history of digital game development, including globally recognized titles like Subway Surfers.
Support for Danish Game Development
Denmark has a vibrant history of digital game development, with over 10,000 titles created since the 1960s. Among the most notable is the mobile game Subway Surfers, which has become the most downloaded mobile game worldwide. This legacy of innovative game development not only includes beloved childhood characters like Hugo and Pixeline but also extends into various genres tailored for all demographics.
To preserve and promote this cultural heritage, the Danish government established Nimbi – the Danish Institute for Game Development – last year. This institute is significant as it is the first of its kind in Europe and aims to bolster Danish game development and its cultural significance. According to Simon Løvind, head of culture at Nimbi, the institute’s goal is to support game development through initiatives such as the distribution of a grant pool worth 15 million Danish kroner for the development, production, and launch of digital games. This marks the first time Nimbi will award these funds, following the completion of its inaugural application round, which attracted an impressive 106 game project proposals—a record number compared to previous funding efforts under the Danish Film Institute.
Redefining Gaming Stereotypes
When discussing gaming and digital entertainment, one might fall into the familiar stereotype of gamers living in dark rooms, snacking on chips and sugary beverages. However, Løvind explains this image is far from the reality. Data from a 2023 study conducted by the Danish Producers Association reveals that four out of five individuals in Denmark engage with video games in some form, signifying that players span a diverse spectrum of society.
Danish game development has evolved into a multi-billion dollar industry, generating an annual revenue of approximately three billion Danish kroner. Løvind emphasizes that Danish games are characterized by immense creativity and a wide range of genres. “We create games across all genres and platforms. From children’s games to those aimed at adults, including titles with artistic or literary qualities,” he notes.
The institute supports various types of games, including light entertainment and more profound narratives that explore historical themes. For example, one of their notable games, Gerda, offers players the opportunity to experience the moral dilemmas faced by a civilian during the German occupation of Denmark, particularly focusing on the perspective of the German minority in Southern Jutland.
With a rich history, Denmark’s first digital game emerged in the 60s, based on Piet Hein’s board game Nimbi—tying the institute’s name to a historical context rooted in the nation’s love for board games. Hein, who was a board game enthusiast, successfully persuaded Denmark’s first IT company, Regnecentralen, to create a computer version of the game in the early 60s.
Government Support and Responsibility
This commitment to responsible game development aligns with statements made by Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt at the time of Nimbi’s establishment. He expressed that utilizing taxpayer funds for innovative Danish games must be done thoughtfully, ensuring that parents can trust the content being created. Løvind highlights that responsible development involves multiple factors, emphasizing transparency in products, careful data handling, and the moderation of online social spaces.
Additionally, a key focus is ensuring that games are not designed solely to maximize the time players spend on them, which can lead to unhealthy gaming habits. Instead, Løvind asserts that most Danish games aim to foster enjoyment and creativity while remaining responsible and of high quality.
With a solid foundation in history and culture, the future of game development in Denmark looks promising. The increase in financial support through Nimbi aims to encourage innovation and creativity within the industry. As the digital landscape continues to grow, the scope for exploration in gameplay, narrative, and interaction is vast, offering developers unique opportunities to engage players on multiple levels.
As the institute prepares to award its first round of funding, the expectation is that it will foster not just economic growth but also cultural enrichment through games. By prioritizing the artistic and social responsibilities of game design, Denmark can continue to cultivate a legacy of gaming that resonates with a broader audience, further enhancing its reputation on the global stage. The diversity of games developed reflects the wide range of player experiences, ensuring that there is something for everyone in the Danish gaming landscape. With creative talent at the helm, the industry is poised to thrive and innovate in the years to come.
