IIDEA Presents Annual Report Showing Significant Growth in Italian Video Game Sector

The Italian Interactive Digital Entertainment Association (IIDEA) recently presented its Annual Report on the Video Game Sector at the Ministry of Culture in Rome, revealing substantial growth across multiple metrics.

The key statistics from the report include:

1. Market size:
   • Total turnover: €2.4 billion (a 3% growth compared to 2023)
   • Software segment: €1.8 billion (76.8% of total, +11% vs 2023)
   • Hardware segment: €548 million (23.2% of total, -18% vs 2023)
2. Player demographics:
   • 14 million players in Italy (+8% vs 2023)
   • 33% of the Italian population aged 6-64 plays video games
   • Gender distribution: 59% male (8.2 million), 41% female (5.7 million)
   • 84% of players are adults (18-64 years old)
   • Average player age: 30.9 years
3. Industry growth:
   • Over 200 active companies (+25% vs 2022)
   • 2,800 employees (+17% vs 2022)
   • Turnover between €180-200 million (+36% vs 2022)
   • 80% of employees are under 36 years old
   • 23% of the workforce are women
4. Game platforms:
   • 74.1% play on mobile devices
   • 44.2% play on consoles
   • 34.4% play on PC

According to the report, consumer spending in the Italian video game market increased by 3%, reaching €2.4 billion. The player base expanded by 7%, now encompassing 14 million people across the country.

The domestic video game industry showed particularly impressive development with a 25% increase in companies, 17% growth in professional workforce, and a remarkable 36% rise in overall turnover.

During the presentation, IIDEA Director General Thalita Malagò emphasized the need for the sector to be recognized for its unique characteristics and requirements, calling this recognition “key to unlocking its full potential.”

Undersecretary Lucia Borgonzoni highlighted the sector’s foundation in creativity and innovation, describing video games as “a powerful tool for cultural expression that engages diverse audiences and extends well beyond entertainment.” The Ministry reaffirmed its support for the industry by confirming the €12 million tax credit for game development in 2025.

The data demonstrates that the Italian video game industry continues to strengthen its position as a significant cultural and economic force in the country’s creative landscape.

The complete report “Essential Facts About Video Games in Italy in 2024” is available at this link: www.iideassociation.com/reports.

For more information about the €12 million allocation for video game development from the Cinema Fund for 2025, please visit the Ministry of Culture’s official page: https://cinema.cultura.gov.it/notizie/pubblicato-il-decreto-di-riparto-del-fondo-cinema-per-il-2025/