The UK Video Games Council has announced its first group of members, featuring Jason Kingsley CBE and Nick Button-Brown
The UK government has formed the UK Video Games Council, an organization intended to collaborate with the government to enhance the growth, innovation, and international influence of the UK's video games and interactive entertainment sector. The council will report to Sir Chris Bryant MP, Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism.
The inaugural council will see Jason Kingsley CBE, CEO of Rebellion Games, and Nick Button-Brown, chair of Outright Games, serving as co-chairs. Other members include:
- Jason Kingsley CBE, CEO and Creative Director, Rebellion (Co-Chair)
- Nick Button-Brown, Chair, Outright Games (Co-Chair)
- Emily Bailey, JECO
- Saad Choudri, Miniclip
- Charu Desodt, Interior:Night
- Kirsty Rigden, Futurlab
- Dave Gould, T2
- Chris van der Kuyl CBE, FRSE, 4J Studios
- Donna Orlowski, Chucklefish
- Nick Poole OBE, CEO, Ukie
- Tara Saunders, Larian
- Maria Sayans, ustwo Games
- Tim Varney, Microsoft
- Dr Richard Wilson OBE, CEO, TIGA
Chris Bryant stated, "The UK’s video games sector is a global leader and an essential part of our creative industries. As outlined in our Creative Industries Sector Plan, we aim to position the UK as the prime location for investing in creativity and innovation."
"This is why I called on the industry to create the UK Video Games Council. This body will represent the sector's perspectives, and I am eager to collaborate with its members to foster the growth of our exceptional games industry," he added.
Supported by UKIE and TIGA, each council member will initially serve for up to three years. The council will convene twice annually to offer strategic guidance on unleashing the full economic, cultural, and educational potential of the UK's games industry.
The formation of the UK Video Games Council is part of broader efforts, which include a new $40.5 million (£30 million) funding increase to boost the UK Games Fund, aiding British game development.