The gaming industry in Morocco has hit a high note with a substantial surge in revenues, reaching an estimated $218.5 million in 2023, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. The market's expansion is not confined to hardware sales such as consoles and controllers, but spans into the organization of specialized competitions, attracting hundreds of players and offering significant prizes.
The Rise of Gaming Arenas
These gaming events, often hosted in venues known as 'arenas' or cybers, are expensive investments, yet they show a promising potential for future growth. Adnan El Abbadi, a cyber owner, highlights the resurgence of these gaming spaces, attributing it to the advancement in internet technology, the evolution of games, and the digital proclivity of modern youth. El Abbadi's vision revolves around creating a family-friendly environment in his cyber, offering a spectrum of gaming options at a reasonable cost of no more than 20 dirhams per hour.
Gamers' Perspectives
Players are drawn to these cyber spaces for various reasons. Anas, an avid gamer, finds the thrill in engaging in competitions, his favorites being FIFA, PUBG, and Fortnite. On the other hand, Mohammed prefers the social ambiance these gaming venues offer over playing at home on his PlayStation 5.
Global Gaming Industry
The global gaming user base has surpassed 3 billion people, with the industry being valued at nearly $197 billion. This growth can be attributed to technological advancements, high-quality graphics, and the ability to simulate reality, making gaming one of the largest entertainment markets worldwide.