The GameDev industry, which is gaining significant influence and momentum worldwide, is one of the top three IT export sectors in Kazakhstan. Therefore, fostering game development not only in major cities but also in regional areas is a priority for Astana Hub. These centers will provide training, support for startups in the gaming and VR/AR sectors, and bring together the Kazakh GameDev community. They aim to establish an educational ecosystem that enables the industry to grow across Kazakhstan, aligning with global trends and creating unique products.

“The development of the game development industry in the regions of Kazakhstan is a strategic step aimed at strengthening our country's technological ecosystem. Regional hubs provide all the conditions for talented youth to realize their ambitions and stay current with global trends. By supporting GameDev, we are opening new horizons for Kazakhstanis, stimulating innovation, and contributing to the economic growth of the regions,” said Aida Dussova, Director of the Astana Hub Regional Development Office.

In Kazakhstan, major global game development companies such as Playrix, Mytona, Nexters, and G5 Games have established offices. Additionally, games with the "Made in KZ" label, including Car Parking Multiplayer, She Sees Red, Madout Games, and BLOCKPOST Mobile, are thriving. With the support of these companies and in partnership with the OMNIUM educational center, the GameDev Center began operating in 2022, based at Astana Hub.

“Over the past two years, in collaboration with Astana Hub, we have developed a strategy for advancing GameDev in Kazakhstan, brought professionals together, trained over 10 startups, and established connections with major game studios. Now, we are bringing this experience to the regions,” said Lev Tarassov, General Director of OMNIUM Kazakhstan.

To popularize the center’s experience in the regions, Level Up training will be conducted as a starting initiative, supported by UNICEF and GameLab KBTU. This educational course will introduce participants to the basics of game development, covering essential skills in game design, development, and gamification. Level Up is part of UNICEF's global STEAM initiative (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).

The GameDev development project in the regions is supported by the Ministry of Digital Development of Kazakhstan and leading companies in the global gaming industry, including Mytona, which provides equipment for the centers.

Today, the field of game development is flourishing among Astana Hub participants. Over 60 participants are either game developers or companies that outsource game components, such as VR/AR technologies, 3D modeling, and more. In his address to the people of Kazakhstan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of expanding the innovation ecosystem and scaling the Astana Hub experience. The development of GameDev centers in the country's regions will foster the creation of innovative products and the training of specialists in interactive technologies, thereby strengthening Kazakhstan’s position in the global gaming industry.