Made in Canada: 20+ Years of Play

Canada is a proud player on the global gaming stage, with homegrown titles and studios making a lasting mark around the world. From epic adventures like Assassin’s Creed and Dragon Age to sports staples like EA Sports FC and NHL, Canadian-made games have become household names. As we celebrate Canada, it’s the perfect time to recognize the creativity, innovation, and talent that drive our video game industry. Whether it’s the immersive storytelling of AAA blockbusters or the bold ideas of indie gems, Canadian developers continue to shape how the world plays—and proudly wave the maple leaf while doing it.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC), and we’re celebrating by shining a spotlight on the incredible games that have brought us together over the past two decades. Made in Canada: 20+ Years of Play is a tribute to the creativity, innovation, and community that define our industry—and the Canadian-made games that continue to inspire players across the country and around the world.

Press Start, Eh?

The modern video game industry in Canada took off in the late 1990s with the arrival of major players like Ubisoft Montréal in 1997, which quickly became one of the world’s largest studios. Around the same time, Electronic Arts expanded its presence with EA Vancouver, now known for hits like FIFA/EA SPORTS FC and NHL. Their success helped position Canada as a leading force in game development. In the years that followed, other major studios emerged, including BioWare in Edmonton, known for Mass Effect and Dragon Age, Relic Entertainment in Vancouver, and Behaviour Interactive in Montreal. Today, Canada is home to a thriving mix of AAA powerhouses and independent studios, making it one of the top video game production countries globally.

Press A to Celebrate

Gaming is a widely embraced activity in Canada, with 53% of Canadians playing regularly and a nearly even gender split among players—51% women and 49% men—highlighting the broad and inclusive appeal of games across the population. On average, Canadian players spend 7.9 hours per week gaming, making it a consistent part of their leisure time. The top motivations for play reflect the deeply personal and social value of games: to have fun, pass the time, and relieve stress or relax. Whether through casual mobile games or immersive console experiences, Canadians turn to gaming as a meaningful way to unwind, connect, and enjoy entertainment on their own terms.

Save File: Canada 

The video game industry contributes $5.1 billion to Canada’s GDP and supports approximately 34,010 full-time jobs, making it a key driver of the digital economy. With 821 studios across the country and major hubs in cities like Montreal, Vancouver, and Toronto, Canada is recognized globally for its innovation, talent, and high-quality game development. From indie successes to blockbuster titles, Canadian-made games reach audiences worldwide, fueling not only economic growth but also the country’s cultural impact on the global stage.