Montpellier aims to host gaming festival by 2028

Montpellier is working to become the host city for an international video gaming festival starting in 2028, following a plan announced by French President Emmanuel Macron to establish such an event in France. The city's Métropole has begun preparing in collaboration with several organizations and industry professionals.

Festival to highlight gaming creativity

The festival is designed to be a global platform for video game creation, similar to events like the Cannes Film Festival. It will include competitions, immersive experiences, and spaces for industry discussion, though the full format is still being planned.

Mayor outlines festival's goals

Michaël Delafosse, mayor of Montpellier and president of Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, emphasized that the event should celebrate video gaming as both a cultural and popular phenomenon, while showcasing French creativity and serving as a hub for industry stakeholders.

Montpellier's strong gaming presence

Montpellier has a well-established video gaming industry, with Ubisoft based in the area for over 30 years. Numerous studios, including Blue Twelve Studios and Sandfall Interactive, have also been founded there, employing around 700 people in total.

Local success stories highlight potential

The city's creative environment is exemplified by the success of Arcane, a series created by Fortiche and Riot Games, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, developed by Sandfall Interactive. The latter won nine awards at the Game Awards, including "Game of the Year," and sold 8 million copies in its first year.

Region supports Montpellier's bid

Carole Delga, president of the Occitanie / Pyrénées - Méditerranée Region, expressed confidence in Montpellier's ability to host the event, calling it an opportunity to showcase France's strengths in the video gaming sector.