PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR THE ECONOMY, ENTERPRISE AND STRATEGIC PROJECTS Playcon 2025 launched: two new studios will be setting up in Malta later this year

The Minister for the Economy, Enterprise, and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri, in partnership with GamingMalta and GMR, has officially inaugurated Playcon 2025, Malta’s premier video game development and esports expo. 

Now in its fifth edition, Playcon has evolved into a premier platform for creators, publishers, tech entrepreneurs, investors, and students, drawing international attention to Malta’s rapidly expanding gaming and esports sectors. Initiatives like Playcon are propelling two emerging economic sectors—the video game industry and esports—into the spotlight, underscoring their pivotal role in Malta’s digital economy.

Over the years, Playcon has seen exponential growth, with more than 25,000 attendees, 60+ exhibitors, and 24 million+ online impressions in its last edition. This year, the event promises an even stronger focus on education, talent development, and economic growth, strengthening Malta’s position as a key player in the international gaming sector.

In fact, two video game studios that participated in Playcon 2024 are establishing a presence in Malta. Feenix is a video game studio specializing in user-generated content. The studio is set to officially launch at Playcon 2025 and is already collaborating with major international intellectual properties, including Roblox and Paddington Bear. In Malta, Feenix plans to employ 30 highly skilled professionals. Hand Rock Studio, a subsidiary of the UK-based Out of the Bit group, is establishing Malta’s first game development studio. The studio aims to blend technical innovation with artistic craftsmanship in its game development endeavours.

Minister Silvio Schembri stated, “Playcon is an important platform for Malta’s growing digital economy and gaming sector. As Malta’s premier gaming and esports event, Playcon not only showcases our vibrant industry but also drives collaboration across the sector. Through targeted initiatives like the renewed partnership with Unity, Unreal Engine Education Pathways and our partnership with BLAST, we are not only nurturing local talent and creating meaningful career opportunities for our youths but also positioning Malta as a premier destination for global gaming and esports leaders. This is a clear investment in Malta’s future, one that builds on our innovation, ambition, and local talent to create sustainable growth and strengthen our position on the global stage.”

Ivan Filletti, CEO of GamingMalta, “Playcon is at the forefront of Malta’s vision to grow its gaming and esports sector. The event creates a unique space where local developers, players, and industry innovators come together to showcase their talent and drive the sector forward. It’s about more than just business — it’s about building a thriving gaming community that will fuel creativity, innovation, and long-term growth for Malta.” 

Playcon 2025 will run between 8–12 October 2025 at the MFCC, featuring industry exhibitions, B2B summits, esports competitions, and student-focused educational sessions. For more information, visit www.playcon.mt.