The video game development industry in California is a dynamic sector that thrives on creativity and innovation. With numerous companies spearheading game design, production, and publishing, this vibrant community produces popular titles for various platforms. From big studios crafting blockbuster console games to smaller teams creating unique mobile experiences, California is a hub for talent and technology. The industry continues to evolve, incorporating advancements in virtual reality and esports into gaming experiences. As consumer demands shift towards social and interactive gameplay, the potential for growth and opportunities within the realm of video games looks promising.

This list highlights 22 prominent video game development companies located in California. With a varied range of company sizes, from small studios like Giant Squid to larger enterprises such as 2K, these firms were founded from 1986 to 2013. They specialize in multiple genres and platforms, showcasing their expertise across mobile, console, and PC games. These companies also reflect California's status as a major epicenter for gaming innovation.

Continue reading to discover the top video game development companies in California.

Top 22 Video Game Development Companies in California

1. Naughty Dog

• Website: naughtydog.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: January 2001
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: naughty-dog

Naughty Dog, LLC is a prominent video game developer based in Santa Monica, California. Established in 1986, the company has made a significant impact on the gaming industry with its innovative approach to game design and storytelling. Naughty Dog is known for creating some of the most beloved franchises in gaming history, including Crash Bandicoot, Jak and Daxter, Uncharted, and The Last of Us. Their games are characterized by high production values, engaging narratives, and immersive gameplay. Over the years, Naughty Dog has received numerous accolades, including multiple Game of the Year awards, reflecting their commitment to excellence. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, Naughty Dog continues to push the boundaries of gaming, with recent projects like The Last of Us Part II Remastered, showcasing their ongoing relevance in the market.

2. 2k

• Website: 2k.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Novato, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 47%, Spain 20%, Ireland 13%, Other 20%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: 2k-games

2K, founded in 2005 and headquartered in Novato, California, is a video game publisher that develops and publishes interactive entertainment across PC, console, and mobile platforms. The company is part of Take-Two Interactive and manages a portfolio of well-known franchises, including NBA 2K, WWE 2K, BioShock, and Borderlands. 2K employs a global team of over 3,400 professionals, including engineers, developers, and graphic artists, who work on creating immersive gaming experiences. The company is committed to community engagement and often involves players in the development process through initiatives like playtesting. 2K's games are recognized for their quality and innovation, making it a respected name in the industry.

3. Respawn Entertainment

• Website: respawn.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Fernando Valley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 72%, Canada 25%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: $455.0M, November 2017
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: respawn-entertainment

Respawn Entertainment, LLC is a video game developer based in San Fernando Valley, California, established in 2010. The company is known for creating engaging gaming experiences, particularly through titles like Apex Legends, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, and Titanfall. With a workforce of approximately 808 employees, Respawn has carved out a significant niche in the gaming industry. Their games have received critical acclaim and commercial success, showcasing their ability to deliver innovative gameplay and compelling narratives. Respawn has also been recognized for its commitment to community engagement and inclusivity, as seen in their internship programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of game developers. The company has received substantial funding, amounting to $455 million in 2017, which underscores investor confidence in their potential for growth and innovation.

4. Ready At Dawn Studios

• Website: readyatdawn.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: June 2020
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ready-at-dawn-studios

Ready At Dawn Studios, based in Irvine, California, is a video game development company founded in 2003. The studio specializes in creating engaging games for AAA consoles and virtual reality platforms. With a team of around 72 employees, Ready At Dawn has developed several critically acclaimed titles, including 'Daxter', 'God of War: Chains of Olympus', and 'Lone Echo'. Their commitment to delivering innovative gaming experiences is evident in their work, which has garnered both commercial success and critical recognition. The studio has a strong focus on technological advancements and artistry, ensuring that their games meet high standards of quality. Currently, they are working on new projects, including a AAA title based on an original intellectual property and expansions to the 'Echo' universe in partnership with Oculus.

5. Scopely

• Website: scopely.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Spain 48%, United States (USA) 26%, India 14%, Other 12%
• Latest funding: $4.9B, April 2023
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: scopely

Scopely, Inc. is a video game developer and publisher based in Culver City, California, founded in 2011. The company specializes in creating and publishing mobile games that engage players through community and competition. Scopely's portfolio features well-known titles like MONOPOLY GO! and Yahtzee With Buddies, which have achieved significant popularity among consumers. The company operates a global ecosystem that includes both internal studios and partnerships with external developers, allowing for a collaborative approach to game creation. Scopely has also received substantial funding, with a reported $4.9 billion raised in April 2023, reflecting strong investor interest and confidence in its business model and growth potential. This financial backing supports Scopely's ongoing efforts to innovate and expand its offerings in the interactive entertainment market.

6. Treyarch

• Website: treyarch.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Canada 13%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: $20.0M, October 2001
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: treyarch

Treyarch Corporation, based in Los Angeles, California, is a prominent video game developer known for its contributions to the Call of Duty franchise. Founded in 1996, the company has built a reputation for creating immersive and engaging gaming experiences. Treyarch emphasizes innovation and collaboration, striving to redefine gaming possibilities. With a workforce of approximately 643 employees, the studio is actively involved in the development of major titles, including the highly anticipated Black Ops 6. Their commitment to quality and player engagement has solidified their position in the gaming industry, making them a key player in the development of first-person shooters and multiplayer experiences.

7. Obsidian Entertainment

• Website: obsidian.net
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: November 2018
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: obsidian-entertainment

Obsidian Entertainment, Inc. is a video game developer based in Irvine, California, founded in 2003 by a group of five game developers. The company specializes in crafting original and licensed video games that prioritize immersive experiences for players. With a workforce of approximately 307 employees, Obsidian has made a significant mark in the gaming industry through its portfolio of popular titles. Notable games include Fallout: New Vegas, which is often regarded as one of the best RPGs of its time, and The Outer Worlds, which received praise for its narrative and gameplay. Their recent projects, such as Avowed and Pentiment, showcase their commitment to innovation and storytelling. Obsidian operates primarily in the United States, with a strong focus on delivering quality gaming experiences that resonate with players.

8. Sledgehammer Games

• Website: sledgehammergames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Foster City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 40%, Australia 31%, Canada 23%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: sledgehammer-games

Sledgehammer Games, based in Foster City, California, is a video game developer known for its work on the Call of Duty series. Founded in 2009, the company has played a significant role in shaping the franchise, co-developing several titles that have received critical acclaim and commercial success. With a workforce of approximately 457 employees, Sledgehammer Games has a global presence, with a significant portion of its team located in Australia and Canada. Their focus on delivering high-quality gaming experiences is evident in their innovative designs and engaging storylines, which have garnered positive reviews from industry critics. The studio's commitment to excellence is reflected in their ability to create immersive gameplay that resonates with a broad audience.

9. Sperasoft

• Website: sperasoft.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Burbank, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Poland 29%, Serbia 29%, Armenia 23%, Other 19%
• Latest funding: $27.0M, December 2017
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: sperasoft

Sperasoft is a game development company based in Burbank, California, founded in 2004. The company specializes in co-development services, working closely with major video game publishers to enhance player experiences across multiple platforms. With a workforce of approximately 649 employees, Sperasoft has a significant presence in the gaming industry, collaborating with renowned partners such as Ubisoft, Electronic Arts, and Microsoft. Their portfolio includes contributions to high-profile titles like 'Halo', 'Assassin’s Creed', and 'Call of Duty'. Sperasoft offers a range of services, including game development, engineering, and creative solutions, ensuring that they meet the diverse needs of their clients. The company is part of Keywords Studios, which further strengthens its position in the global gaming market. Sperasoft's commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their ongoing projects and partnerships, making them a notable player in the video game development sector.

10. Psyonix

• Website: psyonix.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: May 2019
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: psyonix

Psyonix, founded in 2001 and based in San Diego, California, is a video game developer recognized for its engaging and entertaining games. The company is best known for Rocket League, a unique sports-action hybrid that combines soccer with vehicular gameplay. This title has not only achieved commercial success but has also become a staple in competitive gaming and esports. Prior to focusing on its own projects, Psyonix worked on contract projects for major studios, contributing to well-known titles such as Gears of War and Unreal Tournament. Since its shift to original game development, Psyonix has established itself as a key player in the industry, emphasizing high-quality gaming experiences and a positive workplace culture. The company is committed to fostering creativity and inclusion among its team members, which is essential for innovation in game design.

11. Sanzaru

• Website: sanzaru.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Foster City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Canada 6%, Georgia 2%
• Latest funding: February 2020
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: sanzaru-games

Sanzaru Games, founded in 2006 and based in Foster City, California, is a video game developer known for its focus on creating visually stunning and engaging games across various platforms, with a strong emphasis on virtual reality. The company has developed a range of titles, including critically acclaimed games such as Asgard's Wrath and Marvel Powers United VR, which cater to gamers seeking high-quality interactive experiences. Sanzaru has shipped over 16 titles, showcasing their capability and experience in the industry. Their latest project, Asgard's Wrath 2, is set to launch in December 2023, indicating their ongoing commitment to innovation and development in the gaming sector. As part of Oculus Studios, Sanzaru is well-positioned to leverage advancements in VR technology, further solidifying its role in the evolving gaming landscape.

12. Santa Monica Studio

• Website: sms.playstation.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Canada 3%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: santa-monica-studio

Santa Monica Studio, based in Los Angeles, California, is a video game developer known for its focus on narrative-driven experiences. Established in 1999, the studio gained prominence with the release of the original God of War in 2005, which set a new standard for action-adventure games. Over the years, they have developed several sequels and spin-offs, with the 2018 release of God of War being particularly notable for its commercial success and critical acclaim, winning over 190 Game of the Year awards. The studio prides itself on a collaborative culture that encourages creativity and innovation among its team of approximately 500 employees. They have also been involved in mentoring new talent through various initiatives and partnerships with other development teams. Their commitment to quality and storytelling has made them a respected name in the gaming industry.

13. Infinity Ward

• Website: infinityward.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Poland 6%, Spain 2%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: October 2003
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: infinity-ward

Infinity Ward, Inc., founded in 2002 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a prominent video game developer known for its creation of the Call of Duty franchise. The studio has played a pivotal role in shaping the first-person shooter genre, delivering immersive gaming experiences that resonate with players worldwide. Infinity Ward has a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, with a significant portion based in the United States, alongside offices in Poland, Mexico, and Texas. The company has received numerous accolades, including over 200 Game of the Year awards, highlighting its success and influence in the gaming industry. Infinity Ward emphasizes community engagement, actively seeking to recruit talented individuals to enhance its development team. The studio's commitment to innovation and quality is evident in its ongoing projects, including the latest iterations of the Call of Duty series, which continue to attract a large player base and maintain relevance in the competitive gaming market.

14. Glu Mobile

• Website: glu.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 44%, United States (USA) 31%, Canada 14%, Other 11%
• Latest funding: $2.4B, February 2021
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: glu-mobile

Glu Mobile LLC, headquartered in San Francisco, California, is a mobile game developer and publisher that has been active in the gaming industry since 2001. The company specializes in creating interactive gaming experiences that appeal to a wide audience. Glu's portfolio features a range of popular mobile games, including original titles and licensed intellectual properties. Noteworthy games include Covet Fashion, Deer Hunter, Design Home, and Disney Sorcerer’s Arena. These titles have not only achieved commercial success but have also received accolades for their gameplay and design. In February 2021, Glu Mobile secured $240 million in funding, which underscores investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. The company operates with a workforce distributed across several countries, including India, the United States, Canada, Russia, and China, reflecting its global reach in the mobile gaming market.

15. Turtle Rock Studios

• Website: turtlerockstudios.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Lake Forest, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: December 2021
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: turtle-rock-studios

Turtle Rock Studios, founded in 2002 and based in Lake Forest, California, is a video game developer known for its innovative approach to game design. The studio gained fame for creating the critically acclaimed Left 4 Dead series, which set a benchmark for cooperative gameplay in the shooter genre. More recently, they developed Back 4 Blood, a spiritual successor to Left 4 Dead, which has been well-received by players and critics alike. Turtle Rock Studios prides itself on fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration among its team members, allowing for a dynamic development process. The studio operates under the ownership of Tencent Holdings Limited, which provides a level of financial stability and resources. Turtle Rock Studios continues to engage with its community through various platforms, ensuring that player feedback shapes their future projects.

16. Survios

• Website: survios.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Marina Del Rey, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Pakistan 2%
• Latest funding: January 2021
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: survios

Survios is a virtual reality game studio based in Marina Del Rey, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in creating immersive gaming experiences that leverage the unique capabilities of VR technology. Survios has developed and published several popular titles, including 'Raw Data', 'Creed: Rise to Glory', and 'The Walking Dead: Onslaught', which have garnered positive reviews and a dedicated player base. The studio has received multiple industry awards for its game design and technical achievements. Survios is also known for its innovative approach, having created the first full-body VR system and expanding its offerings to include cross-reality games. The company is actively involved in the gaming community, engaging players through playtesting opportunities and maintaining a focus on enhancing player experiences.

17. Double Fine Productions

• Website: doublefine.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: June 2019
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: double-fine-productions

Double Fine Productions is an award-winning video game development studio based in San Francisco, California. Founded in 2000 by Tim Schafer, the company has built a reputation for creating high-quality games that prioritize originality, storytelling, and engaging characters. Over the years, Double Fine has developed a range of titles, including the cult classic 'Psychonauts', the heavy metal-themed 'Brütal Legend', and the critically acclaimed 'Psychonauts 2'. They have also remastered several beloved games, such as 'Grim Fandango' and 'Day of the Tentacle'. The studio is known for its creative work environment, which encourages innovation through initiatives like 'Amnesia Fortnight', allowing team members to pitch and develop new game concepts. In 2020, Double Fine became part of Xbox Game Studios, providing them with a supportive framework to continue their creative endeavors. Their commitment to the independent game development scene is further exemplified by their involvement in events like 'Day of the Devs', which showcases indie games and fosters community engagement.

18. Jam City

• Website: jamcity.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 52%, Uruguay 24%, Argentina 9%, Other 15%
• Latest funding: $350.0M, September 2021
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: jam-city

Jam City, Inc. is a mobile game developer and publisher based in Culver City, California. Founded in 2009, the company has established itself as a significant player in the mobile entertainment industry. Jam City is known for creating popular games that appeal to a wide audience, including titles like Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery, Cookie Jam, and Disney Emoji Blitz. The company has partnered with major entertainment brands, enhancing its game offerings with rich narratives and immersive gameplay. With a workforce of nearly 1,000 employees and studios across multiple locations, Jam City has generated over $4 billion in lifetime bookings and has achieved nearly 1.5 billion downloads across its games. In 2021, the company secured $350 million in funding, further solidifying its position in the market.

19. Super Evil Megacorp

• Website: superevilmegacorp.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%, Spain 4%, Other 11%
• Latest funding: $10.5M, November 2019
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: super-evil-megacorp

Super Evil Megacorp is an independent game development studio based in San Mateo, California, founded in 2012. The company specializes in crafting engaging video games that prioritize shared gaming experiences. Their notable titles include 'TMNT: Splintered Fate', 'Vainglory', and 'Catalyst Black', each designed to push creative and technical boundaries. Super Evil Megacorp operates with a remote workforce distributed across 11 countries, allowing them to tap into a global talent pool. The company is powered by its proprietary EVIL engine, which supports cross-platform gaming and high-quality graphics. In 2019, they secured $10.5 million in funding, further solidifying their position in the competitive gaming industry. Their mission is to create memorable gaming moments that resonate with players around the world.

20. Crystal Dynamics

• Website: crystald.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: May 2022
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: crystal-dynamics

Crystal Dynamics, founded in 1992 and based in San Mateo, California, is a prominent video game developer recognized for its creation of the Tomb Raider franchise. The company has a workforce of approximately 336 employees and focuses on delivering engaging gaming experiences. Crystal Dynamics has been instrumental in the evolution of the Tomb Raider series, which has become one of the most recognizable franchises in gaming history. Their operations extend beyond game development to include publishing partnerships and community engagement initiatives. Recently, they announced a collaboration with Amazon Games to publish a new Tomb Raider title, showcasing their commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology and expanding their creative horizons. The studio also emphasizes a culture of storytelling and community involvement, reflecting their dedication to both players and the gaming industry.

21. Giant Squid

• Website: giantsquidstudios.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: giant-squid-studios

Giant Squid is a video game development studio based in Santa Monica, California, founded in 2013. The company is known for its artistic approach to game design, focusing on emotional impact and immersive experiences. Their portfolio includes critically acclaimed titles such as ABZÛ, an exploration of underwater environments, and The Pathless, which features a unique archery mechanic in a vast forest setting. Currently, they are developing Sword of the Sea, an atmospheric surfing adventure. The studio prides itself on a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of team happiness in the creative process. With a small team of experienced developers, many of whom have backgrounds in award-winning projects, Giant Squid aims to push the boundaries of interactive entertainment while delivering meaningful narratives.

22. Supergiant Games

• Website: supergiantgames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Canada 7%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: supergiant-games

Supergiant Games is a private video game developer based in San Francisco, California, established in 2009. The company has a small team of around 43 employees, yet it has made a significant mark in the gaming industry with its imaginative and immersive titles. Known for their focus on storytelling and gameplay, Supergiant Games has developed several popular games, including Hades, a rogue-like dungeon crawler that has garnered widespread acclaim. Other notable titles include Pyre, a party-based RPG, Transistor, a sci-fi action RPG, and Bastion, their debut game that introduced players to a unique narrative style. The company continues to engage with its audience through updates and new releases, such as Hades II, which is currently in Early Access. Supergiant Games has not reported any external funding, indicating a self-sustaining model that allows them to maintain creative control over their projects.

Video Game Development Insights: Key Companies in California

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Naughty Dog	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1986	Corporate
2k	Novato, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2005	Private
Respawn Entertainment	San Fernando Valley, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2010	Corporate
Ready At Dawn Studios	Irvine, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2003	Corporate
Scopely	Culver City, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2011	Corporate
Treyarch	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1996	Corporate
Obsidian Entertainment	Irvine, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2003	Corporate
Sledgehammer Games	Foster City, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2009	Private
Sperasoft	Burbank, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2004	Corporate
Psyonix	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2000	Corporate
Sanzaru	Foster City, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2007	Corporate
Santa Monica Studio	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1999	Private
Infinity Ward	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2002	Corporate
Glu Mobile	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2001	Corporate
Turtle Rock Studios	Lake Forest, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2002	Corporate
Survios	Marina Del Rey, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2013	Venture Capital
Double Fine Productions	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2000	Corporate
Jam City	Culver City, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2009	Private Equity
Super Evil Megacorp	San Mateo, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2012	Venture Capital
Crystal Dynamics	San Mateo, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1992	Corporate
Giant Squid	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Private
Supergiant Games	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2009	Private

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