The game development industry in Karaganda is rapidly developing, attracting more and more talented developers and ambitious projects. Despite the challenges faced by local studios, the region's potential for creating successful games remains high.  One of the most striking examples is Rhinotales, founded by Artem Slesarenko, Dmitry Savchenko and Daniil Kodubenko, which is actively working on two projects: Critical Shift and Baiga.

Game Dev development in Karaganda: achievements and difficulties

Rhinotales is currently developing two projects. Critical Shift is a turn—based tactical game in a sci-fi and mystical setting for PC, PS5 and Xbox, with an interesting plot and a unique combat system. The second project, Baiga, combines AI x Esport x Tamagochi, offering a new experience for players.

   Screenshot from the game "Critical Shift" (under development). 

Despite his ambitious goals, Artem Slesarenko humorously notes that their most important achievement at the moment is that the company has not gone bankrupt. This highlights the key problem of the industry: lack of funding and lack of specialized support funds. Game development requires significant costs, and studios often work on enthusiasm, unable to bring projects to completion.

The main problems and challenges for gamedev in Karaganda

The main problem of gamedev in Karaganda remains the lack of investments. Financial support is needed to cover basic expenses such as rent, salaries, and marketing. The lack of specialized funds and professional investors complicates the implementation of even the most promising projects.

There is also another problem, which is the lack of qualified specialists. Game development is a complex industry that requires a variety of skills, from programmers and designers to screenwriters and testers. According to Slesarenko, the more studios open, the faster the professional environment will develop, and new projects with great potential will appear.

Opportunities for industry growth and development

The main resource for the development of game dev in Karaganda is people. There are many talented and ambitious people in the region who can become part of the industry. An important step was the opening of the OMNIUM Center for interactive technologies and educational programs, which helps train specialists and develop the industry. The center provides opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to work in game development, and contributes to the formation of a new generation of professionals. It is important to create an infrastructure for the development of game developers, support startups and hold events that will promote the exchange of experience and the development of professional skills.

OMNIUM students at a GameDev event in Karaganda with Kim Elina and Artem Slesarenko.

The future of gamedev in Karaganda

The future of the gaming industry in Karaganda looks promising. The development of projects such as Critical Shift, which is scheduled for release this year, can be a starting point for the growth of the local industry and attract attention to the Kazakh games on the international stage. However, in order to achieve these goals, it is necessary to pay more attention to financial support issues. Attracting investments, creating specialized funds and mechanisms to support startups can significantly accelerate the development of this area. The talent and perseverance of local developers, such as the Rhinotales team, confirm the enormous potential of the region. The formation of a favorable ecosystem for young studios and the promotion of high-quality products to international markets will help Karaganda take its rightful place on the map of the gaming industry.