In recent years, Florida has emerged as a hotbed for game development, attracting talent and investment from around the world. From mobile gaming to console development to virtual reality (VR) experiences, Florida’s game developers are creating innovative and engaging games that have captured the attention of audiences worldwide. In this article, we will explore the factors driving the growth of this industry, highlight some of the top companies in the state, and discuss what it takes to succeed as a game developer in Florida.
Why Florida is a Great Place for Game Developers
1. Warm Climate
One of the biggest draws for game developers moving to Florida is the warm climate. With sunny skies and mild temperatures year-round, it’s easy to see why many people are drawn to this state. This also means that outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and boating are always just a short drive away, which can be a great inspiration for game designers.
2. Growing Population
Florida is home to millions of residents, making it an attractive location for businesses looking to tap into a large market. This also means that there is a growing pool of talent to draw from, as many people are coming to the state in search of work and new experiences.
- Low Cost of Living
Compared to other major cities in the US, Florida has a relatively low cost of living. This means that game developers can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Additionally, many companies offer competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract top talent.
4. Government Incentives
The state of Florida is committed to supporting the growth of its game development industry. There are several programs in place that provide tax incentives and grants for companies looking to create jobs and invest in the state. Additionally, the state has established a dedicated game development team within its Department of Commerce to help facilitate business growth.
Top Game Development Companies in Florida
1. Epic Games
Based in Fortnite creator Tim Sweeney’s hometown of Cary, North Carolina, Epic Games has established a significant presence in Florida, with offices in Miami and Orlando. The company is known for creating popular games like Fortnite, Gears of War, and Paragon. With over 200 employees in the state, Epic Games is one of the largest game development companies in Florida.
2. High Moon Studios
Located in Miami, High Moon Studios was founded in 2001 by several former employees of Midway Games. The company has since become a leading developer of video games for consoles and PCs. Some of their notable works include the MadMax game franchise and the Darksiders series.
3. 2K Games Miami
2K Games Miami is the latest addition to Take-Two Interactive’s portfolio, which already includes 2K Games Los Angeles and 2K Games New York. With offices in Miami and Orlando, the company has quickly become a major force in the game development industry, with over 150 employees working on games like NBA 2K21 and WWE 2K21.
Becoming a Successful Game Developer in Florida
1. Education and Training
To succeed as a game developer in Florida, it’s important to have the right education and training. Many universities and colleges offer degree programs in game design, programming, and art, which can provide students with the skills they need to excel in the industry. Additionally, there are several online courses and bootcamps that offer hands-on training and certification for game development.
