You can find the episode about gaming and all other episodes of our podcast on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, Deezer, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Radio Public, Breaker, Overcast, Castbox, Podcast Addict and Anchor.
Video games are one of the Germans’ favorite pastimes: According to GameAccording to the German Games Industry Association (GGA), 58 percent of Germans between the ages of 6 and 69 play games. Female gamers make up about half (48 percent). The average age of gamers is now 37.4 years, and the trend is rising.
However, German companies are hardly benefiting from this positive trend. According to Game, the share of German game developments in the total turnover of 8.5 billion euros is only 4.2 percentFor startups targeting developers and publishers, this comparatively small domestic market means they have to establish an international presence early on. Or they can target gamers directly – there are plenty of them in the country.
Offers for gamers
Early game For example, Earlygame operates German- and English-language online portals for e-sports and gaming. There, users can find information about various games, but especially about what's currently happening in sports. From information about tournaments and current results to news about individual players and teams, the startup covers everything that traditional gaming magazines usually neglect. We reveal who is behind Earlygame and how successful they are with it starting at minute 4:25.
The gaming experience itself is what matters at Megadev (from minute 7:20). The startup's Plitch platform allows players to customize their game to their individual needs using cheat and training codes. This means they can make their games easier or more difficult. Particularly important to the two founders: Plitch only works offline and in single-player mode. Those who want to compete with others cannot use Megadev's solution.
Gaming yesterday and tomorrow
A solution for game developers, however, is BrainamicsThe Munich-based startup relies on EEG and machine learning to map the gaming experience. This allows developers to objectively determine which parts of their game cause test players' concentration to wane or even become bored. Brainamics aims to help develop more successful games. We'll cover the startup's journey from a hackathon to the current funding round starting at minute 10:10.
A heart for old video games, however, shows Retroplace (from minute 12:40). The startup, which was acquired by the Hof-based company Skinbaron at the beginning of the year, offers a home for all retro gaming enthusiasts with its platform. There, they can not only browse a database of over 160,000 video games, but also manage their own collection and buy and sell games, accessories, strategy guides, soundtracks, and more.
A look at Vito Ventures
Even if the VC Vito Ventures is no longer adding new startups to its portfolio, it's worth taking a closer look. Its portfolio is quite impressive: From quantum computers to mobility solutions to space tech startups, Vito Ventures offers everything that is generally considered groundbreaking. Starting at minute 15:10, we go into detail and reveal where the VC's creators can be found today.
