# French video game industry economic crisis

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/french-video-game-industry-economic-crisis
> Updated: 2026-10-25T05:00:05.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2.

The 15th edition of Paris Games Week opened during a period of significant economic instability for the French video game sector. According to the Syndicat national du jeu vidéo, 48 percent of studios reported deficits for 2025. Major companies such as Ubisoft, Don’t Nod, Nacon, and Quantic Dream have conducted job cuts due to restricted capital access and lower sales, leading experts to describe the sector as “extremely risky” for investors.

Despite these headwinds, the event concluded by showcasing both international titles and domestic productions. The showcase highlighted French independent developers through the ‘Game in France’ stand, featuring titles such as Atlantis Studio’s ‘Beyond the Dark: Nightwatch’ and AARISE’s ‘Kiwi Boing’. While Ubisoft received recognition for having the best stand, ‘Hela of Mice & Magic’ was named the best game of the show.

By the conclusion of the event, Paris Games Week drew over 160,000 visitors to the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, featuring 174 exhibitors and more than 100 playable titles. The professional segment, PGW Business, reported a 25 percent increase in attendance with 415 professionals participating in industry conferences. The event also featured esports competitions, such as the EMEA Masters Summer 2026 League of Legends finals.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-25: Paris Games Week 2026 attracts 160,000 visitors

Paris Games Week 2026 concluded with over 160,000 visitors and a 25% rise in professional attendance, featuring major game previews and esports competitions.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/paris-games-week-2026-showcases-french-studios-and-new-titles

### 2026-10-19: Paris Games Week opens amid French video game industry crisis

Paris Games Week opens amid a crisis in the French video game industry, with 48% of studios reporting deficits and major companies like Ubisoft implementing layoffs.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/french-video-game-industry-faces-crisis-amid-paris-games-week

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Cite as: French video game industry economic crisis. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/french-video-game-industry-economic-crisis
