Berlin election race shapes future of city’s games industry

The Berlin state election on 20 September will determine the city’s governing coalition and its policy direction for the games sector. Incumbent mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) and Economic Senator Franziska Giffey (SPD) have already launched the House of Games project, allocating €4.6 million for a 10,000 m² venue whose future operator remains undecided. The Media Board Berlin‑Brandenburg contributes over €3 million, making the city’s games‑funding programme one of the largest in Germany.

Party platforms address the industry: the CDU pledges a “digital‑first” agenda, a one‑stop‑shop for business registration, expanded E‑Sport funding and an academy to develop amateur leagues. The SPD, represented by candidate Steffen Krach, emphasizes support for large E‑Sport events and continued backing of the E‑Sport team Berlin. Both parties link the games industry to Berlin’s ambition to host the German Computer Game Award in 2027 and to reinforce the city’s reputation as a leading games hub.