The British journal The Guardian highlights today how Skövde, as a medium-sized city in Sweden, has become home to some of the country's most successful gaming companies. In the report, readers meet both established developers, companies and new talents who describe how Skövde's unique ecosystem has made it possible to grow on its own terms.

It was a sunny day in October that the journalist on assignment for The Guardian visited Skövde and met, among others Coffee Stain Studios, Stunlock Studios and Iron Gate. Despite operating in different genres and at different stages of their journey, the companies all told a similar story. The close connection between the University of Skövde, Science Park Skövde and the growing network of game developers has been crucial to their success.

"It's an environment where knowledge is generously shared, where the path into the industry is made clear through training and incubation, and where developers are never alone," says Rickard Frisegård, CEO of Stunlock Studios.

The Guardian also met with the teams in Science Park Skövdes Sweden Game Startup program, which showcased their offices and latest game projects. Several of them have moved to Skövde precisely to be part of the context and community here, which the teams describe as both supportive and inspiring and which plays a major role in their ability to take the next step.

"Skövde's unique gaming environment is the result of long-term investments in creativity and competence from both the municipality and the region. Sweden Game Arena has been built up over many years, in close collaboration between business, education and those who actually create the games. It's not something that happens overnight, but our long-term work has really put Skövde on the map," says Marcus Toftedahl, project manager at Science Park Skövde.

The report in The Guardian sheds light on what many here have known for a long time. When the right pieces of the puzzle come together, even a small town can become a powerful engine in the Swedish and international gaming industry.

Read the full story article in The Guardian >>
Read more about the gambling industry in Skövde >>