Mexico and Colombia: Latin America’s New Video Game Powerhouses
What is driving Mexico and Colombia to become the new video game powerhouses in Latin America?
Could the next major global IP emerge from these two countries?
The excitement surrounding the rise of the video game industry in Latin America is palpable: millions of players, a growing ecosystem of independent studios, and a young generation that sees this industry as a viable professional path are reshaping the region.
Within this vibrant landscape, Mexico and Colombia stand out as key engines of growth that, according to specialists, could mark a turning point in the continent’s creative history.
The region reached a value of US$23.55 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to US$25.70 billion in 2025, driven by a digitized, young, and creative ecosystem that is consolidating video games as a strategic cultural industry and a pathway for professional development for thousands of people.
According to David Alonso, Director of the Department of Video Games, Animation, and Technology at the Spanish university UDIT:
“Mexico and Colombia are no longer mere observers of the global market; they are becoming key players that contribute new narratives, technical talent, and a distinct identity.”
Market in Mexico.
Mexico leads in scale: more than 68.7 million active players and a mobile gaming market that generated US$1,501.50 million in 2024, with expectations of doubling by 2033.
Widespread access to smartphones and the growth of free-to-play models have fueled sustained consumption, positioning Mexico as the largest market in the region.
Colombia’s momentum.
Colombia, while smaller in size, is advancing with remarkable dynamism, supported by its creative ecosystem.
More than 87,000 companies make up its cultural economy, and government programs for video games, animation, and transmedia content have funded projects by 123 creators with investments exceeding COP 9,948 million.
Alonso notes that:
“Colombian talent is beginning to compete head-to-head with international studios in design, art, and animation.”
This surge is not explained by demand alone, but also by the use of video games as a cultural tool.
In Mexico, studios are incorporating mythology, symbols, and local imaginaries that have sparked interest among global audiences.
In Colombia, independent teams are leading international collaborations and exporting specialized talent in 2D/3D, animation, and interactive storytelling.
For Alonso:
“The world is looking for different stories, and Latin America has a cultural strength that is now finding its place in video games.”
Employment and opportunities.
The sector is also driving specialized employment. In both countries, demand is growing for C++ and C# programmers, Unity and Unreal Engine developers, 3D artists, animators, UX designers, testers, and professionals in marketing, localization, and community management.
The expansion of remote and freelance work for foreign studios is broadening opportunities and strengthening the export of creative services.
The executive adds:
“Video games are no longer just about developing a title: they encompass art, technology, communication, communities, and the digital economy; they represent a complete value chain.”
The impact extends beyond entertainment. Research in Mexico during the pandemic showed that gamified systems improve student engagement and perceptions of learning.
In Colombia, media outlets and organizations use challenges, quizzes, and interactive dynamics to connect with younger audiences.
At a regional level, gamification is driving financial education programs based on rewards and challenges.
The market for gamified platforms is estimated to reach US$38.78 billion by 2030, reflecting the transversal role of video game language across education, health, marketing, and digital services.
Despite these advances, consolidation faces obstacles. A lack of specialized financing, difficulties in retaining senior talent, and the need for more robust technological infrastructure limit studio growth.
These challenges are compounded by outdated regulatory frameworks: in Mexico, the debate over an 8% tax on video games classified as “violent” creates uncertainty, while in Colombia, gaming regulation and labor reform place additional pressure on emerging companies.
Alonso analyzes that:
“Mexico and Colombia have unquestionable creativity and talent volume. What is missing is a legal and financial framework that allows them to compete with Montreal, Tokyo, or California.”
Even so, the outlook remains optimistic. Growth in the mobile segment, live-service models, subscriptions, the adoption of AI and immersive technologies, and the strengthening of e-sports are shaping fertile ground for the creation and export of new intellectual properties.
Studios in both countries are preparing to participate more actively in global trade fairs, collaborate with international publishers, and take on larger-scale projects.
Alonso concludes:
“The next major Latin American IP is close. And it will very likely be born from a Mexican or Colombian studio that combines local culture, international vision, and cutting-edge technology. This is a pivotal moment, and both countries are ready to take that leap.”
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