Resumen
Despite the impressive growth of the video game industry in Europe and a growing interest emerging in that industrial sector, there is still a knowledge deficiency in respect of its characteristics, and its contribution to urban and regional development. This paper explores the characteristics of the industry communities, location factors, types of games developed, tools used, marketing and sales channels and economic impact. This research is based on data collected in Portugal through a survey of 70 economic agents, under the auspices of the First Atlas of video games Industry in Portugal research project. The paper concludes with an elaboration of the opportunities and challenges associated with the industry and the potential role of public and institutional policies in supporting its development and sustainability.