Malta's Gaming Vision Takes Shape: Wevr Announcement Signals Growing Industry Momentum

When Minister for the Economy Silvio Schembri announced last week that US immersive technology studio Wevr would establish its European base in Malta, the news represented more than just another company choosing our shores. It marked the latest validation of a strategy years in the making - one that has quietly positioned Malta as a Mediterranean hub for gaming, esports, and immersive technology.

The announcement came during Malta's 5th Startup Festival Week, which attracted over 2,000 registrations from more than 40 countries. But Wevr's decision to locate here wasn't made in a vacuum. It reflects the cumulative effect of deliberate policy choices and strategic infrastructure investments that have made Malta increasingly attractive to companies at the cutting edge of digital entertainment.

Wevr, known for pioneering immersive experiences like The Blu and backed by investors including HTC, Warner Brothers, and Epic Games, will establish a talent residency programme in Malta. For a company recognised by Fast Company as one of the most innovative in AR/VR, the choice of Malta speaks volumes about what we've built here.

From Vision to Reality

The foundation for this moment was laid in May 2019, when government unveiled its "Vision for Video Games Development and Esports," outlining strategic initiatives including tax rebates, grant schemes, venture capital investment, and educational programmes at the University of Malta and MCAST. At the time, the industry employed around 200 people, representing just 0.1% of GDP. The vision aimed to grow this to 1% within a decade whilst creating up to 3,000 new jobs.

What made Malta's approach distinctive was recognising that the video games business model is structurally different from iGaming, requiring industry-led and sector-specific expertise. The natural synergy between Malta's established iGaming sector and emerging esports industry provided a launching pad, with existing digital infrastructure proving directly transferable to new markets.

Minister for the Economy Silvio Schembri announced last week that US immersive technology studio Wevr would establish its European base in Malta

Building the Ecosystem

Malta's approach extended beyond simply attracting companies. From 2020 to 2024, ESL FACEIT Group partnered with GamingMalta to host editions of its ESL Pro League on the island. More recently, BLAST announced a partnership to host Counter-Strike 2 and Dota 2 events in Malta until 2027. These aren't merely tournaments - they're validation from major esports organisers that Malta offers the infrastructure and professional environment required for world-class competitive gaming.

The talent pipeline has expanded considerably. Companies like Esports Entertainment Group, operating from St Julian's, now run both iGaming and game services. Plazma Studio, founded in 2018, specialises in mobile and VR gaming. Swintt won the EGR B2B award for Live Casino Supplier of the Year in June 2024, demonstrating Malta's capacity to nurture award-winning gaming technology companies.

What's emerged is a genuine ecosystem. Malta's strong internet connections, reliable data centres, and English-speaking tech workforce, combined with easy accessibility from across Europe, create ideal conditions. The infrastructure that supported online casinos now powers game development studios, esports platforms, and immersive technology companies.

The Strategic Advantage

Wevr is partnering with Malta Enterprise, Gaming Malta, and the Malta Film Commission to attract international talent. This multi-agency collaboration reflects government recognition that creative industries require tailored support spanning multiple sectors - from gaming regulation to film production facilities to startup incubation.

Malta's ties with Hollywood, having hosted productions including Gladiator and Game of Thrones, offer additional advantages. For immersive technology companies blending gaming, film, and interactive experiences, this convergence of expertise is increasingly valuable. The SiGMA Europe 2024 conference alone contributed over €100 million to Malta's tourism revenue, demonstrating that gaming and technology events are becoming central to our economy.