The Indonesian gaming industry, though burgeoning, still faces significant underrepresentation outside Java, particularly in regions like Sumatra where potential game developers in cities like Batam and Lampung remain overlooked.

In a recent public statement, Riris Marpaung, CEO of Game Changer Studio, highlighted the disproportionate focus on Java’s gaming sector at the expense of equally promising markets in Sumatra. The call for action was made during a public consultation hosted by the Indonesian Game Association.

Despite the promising market, major Sumatran cities like Medan and Padang lack game development studios, with only Batam and Lampung making strides in this sector.

Riris Marpaung noted the potential for Batam and Lampung developers to emulate the success of the horror genre game DreadOut, which not only gained global recognition but also spawned a film adaptation available on Netflix.

The global gaming industry has surpassed revenues of IDR 3,000 trillion, yet Indonesia’s local developers hold a meager 0.5 percent market share domestically, underlining the sector’s untapped potential.

A major challenge is the quality of local developer talent, which often does not meet international standards, limiting their market penetration and success.

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There is a strong advocacy for more robust governmental support and recognition, which could significantly aid in nurturing a more competitive gaming industry in Sumatra.

The development of Sumatra’s gaming industry not only indicates a shift towards decentralizing Indonesia’s digital content creation but also highlights opportunities for investment and collaboration in a rapidly growing sector.

The Indonesian gaming community is urging the government to focus on developing the digital game industry across Sumatra, to harness local talent and bring regional developers like those in Batam and Lampung to the forefront of the national and global gaming scene.

Source: RRI (2024)