Side is set to launch a new studio in Saudi Arabia through a collaboration with Savvy Games Group

Games services firm Side has unveiled plans to establish a new studio in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the Savvy Games Group.

According to Game Developer, the companies formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding signed recently. Expected to commence operations by the end of 2025, this studio will provide co-development services across the MENA region.

Side’s CEO Deborah Kirkham highlighted Saudi Arabia's crucial role in the global gaming sector, particularly its developmental potential. Kirkham described the country as being strategically positioned for UK companies, due to collaborative partners like Savvy, a local audience eager for tailored content, and active government investment in future growth.

Side aims to leverage these opportunities to bring its renowned expertise to the Saudi market.

Savvy Games Group operates under Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has been under scrutiny over human rights issues in the region, as noted by Amnesty International.

Addressing the complexities, Side's Chief Communications Officer Martin McBride mentioned regional instability might impact growth speed but emphasized that exceptional games can emerge from anywhere.

McBride stated, "Our collaboration with Savvy is based on the notion that top-tier games can be crafted globally, and they should be translated to reach a wider audience." He pointed out that in Saudi Arabia, the gaming community encompasses over 20 million, with younger gamers forming a significant portion.

Despite potential challenges due to regional uncertainty, McBride reiterated Side's commitment to nurturing a gaming hub in Riyadh and aiding local developers aspiring for global reach.

Clarifying financial arrangements, McBride confirmed that Savvy Games is not investing financially in Side, and their alliance does not involve equity or ownership transfers.

The PIF, meanwhile, has investments in companies like Nintendo, Capcom and Nexon, EA, Take Two, Activision Blizzard, and Koei Tecmo.

Nika Nour, Savvy Games SVP and international business development leader, expressed enthusiasm for partnering with Side. Nour cited their joint goal of enhancing the global gaming experience and fostering new creative talent in Saudi Arabia.

Referencing Side's growth trajectory, McBride spotlighted the firm’s recent expansion in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where the team grew from under 10 members to over 100 in less than two years.

This expansion illustrates Side’s commitment to supporting a vibrant gaming ecosystem, believing the Riyadh studio can contribute fresh talent and innovative ideas to the gaming industry. He affirmed Side’s ongoing role in shaping the future of gaming.

Previously known as PTW, Side was founded in 1994 as Pole to Win. It underwent a rebranding process earlier this year, consolidating its subsidiaries, including 1518 Studios, audio specialist SIDE, and Ghostpunch Games, under one identity, as reported by GamesIndustry.biz.