Computer & Video Game Production in Texas

Texas has played a major role in the computer and video game industry since the 1980's, and continues to remain a hub for production. With more than 90 development and publishing companies throughout the State that provide almost 3,000 full-time jobs, Texas has the 3rd largest concentration of game companies in the US. It is estimated that the local game industry will spend more than $177,000,000 dollars in Texas this year alone.

Developers in Texas produce games for all platforms, including online, PCs, consoles, and mobile phones. And, some of the most popular and groundbreaking games, such as Ultima Online (Origin Systems/EA), the Quake series (id Software), and the Age of Empires series (Ensemble Studios/Microsoft), have been made in Texas. Visit our gameography for more information on the history of Texas-made games.

Between 10-15% of Texas game developers are creating serious games. These are programs that use game technologies for educational, military, medical and even governmental purposes. Working with major Universities and federal institutions, Texas game companies are shaping the next generation of computer and video game tools. Visit our featured game page for examples of these exciting projects.

Why Texas for Games

Financial Incentives
Not only does Texas offer production incentives for game developers equal to 5% of in-state spending, but also has sales tax exemptions for many of the items and services used to produce games. Texas also has one of the lowest tax burdens for businesses than any other state, and has no state income tax.

Clusters of Talent
Companies have migrated to cities such as Austin, Dallas and Houston because of their large collection of talented artists, programmers, designers and visionaries. New talent from Texas universities and colleges, as well as those from other industries, such as film and music, has helped the game community grow. Local professional organizations and industry-specific conferences have also provided an environment for creativity.

Support Industries
There are support service companies for the game industry throughout the state, including motion capture studios, software and hardware manufacturers, game-specific scriptwriters, animation and programming outsourcers, audio facilities and recruiting agencies. Texas is your one-stop shop for game production! Please visit our Production Directory for a list of companies that offer some of these services.

Infrastructure
Texas has strong communities, school districts, transportation networks and other resources that make the state a convenient and stable place to do business. Texas is Wide Open for Business.

Quality of Life
Companies have no trouble recruiting employees to Texas, because of the comparatively low cost of living and no state income tax. It's easy to live a successful and active lifestyle in Texas, whether you are single or raising a family.

2008 Texas Animation, Games & Visual Effects Showcase

The Showcase is a collaboration of the Texas Film Commission and A Bunch of Short Guys (Texas Animation Guild) that shows the quality and quantity of great work being produced in Texas. To request a copy for yourself, please contact Katy Daiger at the Film Commission.