Super Mario, Tekken, Street Fighter, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. Do any of these games sound familiar to you? While these iconic games have captured the imaginations of gamers worldwide, their influence runs deep in the Philippines. From casual gamers to competitive eSports enthusiasts, Filipinos have embraced gaming as more than just a hobby — it has become a way of life.
Across generations, gaming has ingrained itself as part of our country’s culture and society. This shapes not only entertainment but also social interactions and even careers and professions. With this, the gaming industry in the Philippines continues to flourish, offering diverse opportunities and experiences for both enthusiasts and professionals.
As you embark on a career in the gaming industry, understanding the Philippines’ gaming market will not only guide your journey but also position yourself for success. Hence, in this article, we’ll discuss the nation’s gaming scene. We’ll focus on the statistics, facts, and dynamics; as well as effective tips on how to carve your path into the gaming industry.
The Online Gaming Market in the Philippines
With the continuous advancements in technology, there’s no denying that the online gaming industry in the Philippines is thriving. In fact, gaming has surged in popularity among Filipinos in recent years, with revenues experiencing remarkable growth in 2020 compared to previous years. Whether you’re playing on consoles, mobile devices, or personal computers, the accessibility and variety of gaming options have contributed to this upward trend.
In addition to this, the availability of high-speed internet and mobile technology has played an integral role behind the growth of the country’s online gaming market. Meaning, it’s now easier than ever for you to play online games and become a part of the gaming community. Backed by Rakuten Insight’s survey in the Philippines, the Statista Research Department published that 94% of online gamers use their mobile phones for gaming.
Meanwhile, the rise of eSports has also been instrumental in the gaming industry as such tournaments and events have gained popularity in the country. This, in turn, attracted a large number of participants and spectators.
Types of Gaming Platforms
As mentioned, gaming is a widespread and beloved pastime in the Philippines, with gaming enthusiasts enjoying a variety of gaming platforms. Let’s dive into the different types of gaming platforms.
1. Consoles
Designed for easy setup and maintenance, consoles are purpose-built entertainment systems and dedicated gaming devices connected to a TV or monitor. They offer a seamless gaming experience and are known for their exclusive titles and powerful hardware, which might be handheld, stationary, and intended to be used in a home entertainment scenario. Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox, and Nintendo Switch are some of the most popular consoles.
2. Personal Computers (PCs)
A customizable gaming platform that allows you to tailor your setup to suit your preferences, PC has a wide range of customization options and superior graphics performance. Hence, many Filipino gamers prefer PCs for their flexibility and the ability to upgrade components over time.
3. Mobile Devices
Due to the widespread availability of smartphones, mobile gaming has taken the Philippines by storm. Games like Mobile Legends and PUBG Mobile have become household names, captivating gamers of all ages. Whether you’re using Android or iOS devices, the gaming world is at your fingertips.
Aside from these predominant platforms, there are also new and growing platforms with smaller market shares. These include augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and game streaming.
Related Article: Mobile, Console, or PC Gaming: What Should You Focus on as a Game Developer?
How to Get into the Gaming Industry
Now that you have an overview of the gaming industry in the Philippines, understanding the tips on how to embark on field industry can help you kickstart your gaming career.
1. Actively participate in relevant discussions.
Many companies offer free training and seminars on gaming. Plus, there are video game discussions available online that you can also join for free. Whether it’s forum, Reddit, or Discord servers, engaging with the gaming community can broaden your perspective, keep abreast of the game development trends, and connect you with like-minded gamers.
2. Develop your own games.
Ever dreamed of creating your own masterpiece? Dive into game development and let your creativity run wild. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey that could lead to your own gaming success story. By developing your own games, you not only showcase your creativity but also gain valuable experience in game design and programming. Begin with simple projects and gradually work your way up to more complex games.
3. Study game courses.
Enrolling in game courses provides you with a solid foundation for a career in the gaming industry. Game design, programming, art, and animation courses can help you hone the skills necessary to succeed in the competitive world of game development. Look for accredited institutions such as CIIT Philippines or online courses that offer comprehensive programs tailored to the industry.
4. Apply for entry-level or internship roles in a gaming company.
Landing entry-level roles or internships positions in a gaming company serves as an effective avenue to obtain hands-on experience and learn from industry professionals. Likewise, you’ll have the opportunity to understand the inner workings of the gaming industry, build your professional network, and discover potential career paths within the industry.
Why Study Game Development
As stated, studying game courses plays a crucial role as you jumpstart your career in the gaming industry. Plus, embarking on a journey into this field can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here’s why learning game development might be the perfect path for you:
1. Develops and enhances your technical skills.
Studying game development isn’t just about creating games; it’s about honing a set of technical skills that are highly sought after in today’s digital age. From programming to graphic design, game development can equip you with skills that prove valuable across various fields.
2. Expresses your creativity through game design.
Are you bursting with creative ideas? Game development provides a canvas for your imagination. Whether you’re crafting game levels or designing captivating characters, enrolling in game development courses gives you the tools to turn your creativity into reality.
3. Explores career opportunities.
The gaming industry in the Philippines is booming, and with that comes a wealth of career opportunities. Learning this field opens doors to a range of exciting roles, including game designer, programmer, artist, and producer. It’s a world where passion meets profession, and the possibilities knows no bounds.
4. Gains industry insights.
Taking game development courses not only teaches you how to create games but also gives insights into the gaming industry in the Philippines as a whole. You’ll learn about industry trends, technologies, and best practices, giving you a competitive edge as you enter this field.
Be Part of the Gaming Industry in the Philippines with CIIT’s Entertainment and Multimedia Computing Degree
As the gaming industry in the Philippines continues to flourish, the demand for skilled game developers also increases. That being said, you need to prepare and equip yourself with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in this field.
With CIIT Philippines’ bachelor’s degree in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing, you can advance your programming, game design, sound engineering, and animation skills. From developing games from scratch to discovering the secrets behind captivating gameplay, this program arms you with the tools you need to excel in this dynamic industry.
What’s more, you’ll benefit from our customized curriculum, approved and backed by leading experts and organizations in the field. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue an internship with over 100 industry partners, providing you with real-world experience and invaluable connections. Ready to level up your career in the gaming industry? Be a CIITzen today!
