At Tentuplay (Sentience Inc.), we collaborate with team members from different parts of the world who represent diverse nationalities. This time, Leo, our skilled software engineer from Finland and the best gamer in Sentience, will uncover Finnish gaming's unique nuances and global impact.
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, different countries have developed unique gaming cultures that reflect their values, priorities, and passions. Having experienced these gaming cultures firsthand, having played games in Finland throughout my entire life and having worked in both Finnish and Korean companies, I've had the privilege of witnessing the distinct flavors that each nation brings to the gaming table. While South Korea's gaming landscape has long been synonymous with the bustling energy of ‘PC bang’s, Korean internet cafes, and the fierce competitiveness of esports, on the other side of the world, in Finland, an entirely different gaming narrative unfolds. In this blog post, I'll uncover the intriguing nuances that set Finnish gaming apart and the gaming industry's remarkable contributions that continue to resonate with players worldwide.
Difference in Gaming Scenes
In contrast to Korea's gaming culture, which has been largely influenced by internet cafes or PC bangs, Finland takes a different approach to community building. In Finland, you won't find PC bangs; instead, Finnish gamers come together for LAN parties in gaming conventions and festivals where they connect their PCs for local multiplayer gaming sessions. This practice promotes face-to-face interactions and strengthens bonds among gamers, reflecting the camaraderie that Korean gamers experience at PC bangs.
In addition to the communal aspect, there's a notable difference in gaming styles between the two countries. Gaming in Finland leans towards a more casual approach, with less emphasis on competitive play and a greater focus on having fun. On the other hand, in Korea, gaming tends to be highly competitive, with a strong emphasis on winning and achieving mastery. This contrast leads to Finnish gamers being more open to playing a variety of games and exploring different genres.
Finnish Gaming Industry Powered by Fun
While the player base in Finland predominantly enjoys casual gaming, the Finnish gaming industry aligns with this preference. Finland has produced some remarkable companies that have made a lasting impact. Remedy Entertainment is renowned for its narrative-driven games like Max Payne and Control, delivering immersive storytelling experiences. Rovio Entertainment burst onto the scene with the iconic Angry Birds franchise, captivating global audiences with its charming characters. Supercell has maintained its status as a gaming giant since 2010, thanks to addictive multiplayer titles like Clash of Clans and Clash Royale. These three Finnish gaming titans continue to shape the industry with their unique strengths and innovations, captivating players worldwide.
When we examine the revenue figures, each company occupies a different tier within the gaming industry. In 2021, Supercell, with its annual revenues of €1.89 billion(1), stands as a true giant, dominating the mobile gaming landscape, and matching to the Korean gaming giant, Netmarble, which stands at €1.76 billion(2). Rovio, with its €286 million(3) in revenues, continues to thrive on the strength of the Angry Birds franchise, proving that iconic characters can have lasting appeal. Remedy, with its €48 million(4) in revenues, represents the niche market of narrative-focused gaming, catering to a specific audience that values storytelling and immersive experiences.
Esports, while present, haven't reached the same level of prominence as in South Korea, but they are steadily growing in popularity. Perhaps the most notable player from Finland known to a Korean audience is Serral in Starcraft 2. Finland also boasts the highest number of Dota 2 The International champions to win twice, Topson and JerAx, making JerAx the second-highest-earning Esports player(5).
What Supports the Success of Fun?
Finland's journey to becoming a gaming industry powerhouse is rooted in its remarkable talent pool and educational excellence. The country is home to a highly educated and skilled workforce, well-versed in the complexities of game development. Finnish universities and specialized game development programs consistently produce top-tier talent, feeding the thriving gaming ecosystem. This commitment to education and skill development has not only helped indigenous companies like Rovio, founded in 2003 by three students from Helsinki University of Technology, but has also fostered an environment where the next generation of gaming visionaries can emerge. With a strong emphasis on fostering both creativity and technical prowess, Finland stands as a formidable force in the global gaming arena.
Furthermore, Finland's commitment to a high quality of life and strong support for entrepreneurship extend to the gaming industry, making it a haven for developers and gaming professionals. With a reputation for a great standard of living, top-notch healthcare, and an efficient bureaucracy, Finland ensures a conducive environment for those engaged in the gaming sector. This, coupled with the government's backing for startups and innovative enterprises, creates a unique space where aspiring talents can not only thrive but also contribute to the vibrant gaming ecosystem. Finland's status as a global gaming powerhouse is a testament to its inclusive and progressive approach, offering both its citizens and international talents a place where innovation and creativity are nurtured.
Finnish Gaming: Where Fun and Creativity Are the Ultimate Prize
Finland's gaming culture, distinct in its emphasis on fun and camaraderie, sets it apart from global gaming giants like South Korea. Unlike the competitive fervor of PC bangs, Finnish gamers unite through LAN parties and festivals, embracing a more relaxed gaming style that encourages exploration of diverse genres. This ethos extends to the Finnish gaming industry, where companies like Remedy Entertainment, Rovio, and Supercell craft immersive narratives and iconic characters, resonating with players worldwide. Anchored in an educated and skilled workforce and supported by a high quality of life, Finland's gaming scene welcomes both local and international talent, fostering innovation and creativity. The future holds promise for esports and a new generation of gaming pioneers, ensuring Finland's influence in the gaming world remains enduring and profound, celebrated for its dedication to delivering the simple joy of fun.
PS. You can feel the same difference in work place offices.
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< Footnotes >
(1) https://supercell.com/en/news/best-days/
(2) https://company.netmarble.com/en/invest/finance
(3) https://investors.rovio.com/en/financials-reports/interim-reports/year/2021#Yeartab
(4) https://investors.remedygames.com/financials-and-reports/financials/
(5) https://escharts.com/players
