What's Happening?
WeWereMonkeys, a Vernon-based video game studio, has received a $50,000 grant from Creative BC's Video Games Early Stage Growth program. The funding will support the development of their first video game, 'The Death of Akina,' an action-adventure game set
on a planet devastated by a technological god. The program aims to assist emerging studios in gaining a foothold in the competitive video game market by providing financial support for prototyping, design, and marketing efforts. WeWereMonkeys, founded in 2008, has previously worked on projects for Taylor Swift and Of Monsters and Men.
Why It's Important?
The grant from Creative BC highlights the growing recognition of the video game industry as a significant contributor to the economy. By supporting emerging studios like WeWereMonkeys, the program aims to foster innovation and creativity within the industry, potentially leading to job creation and economic growth. The development of unique intellectual property can position British Columbia as a hub for video game production, attracting talent and investment to the region.
What's Next?
With the funding, WeWereMonkeys will focus on completing 'The Death of Akina' and preparing for its market launch. The studio plans to use the grant to hire local talent and enhance its technical infrastructure. As the game nears completion, marketing and community engagement efforts will be crucial to its success. The support from Creative BC may also encourage other emerging studios to apply for similar grants, further strengthening the local video game industry.
