Germany's game development sector is a vibrant hub for creativity and innovation. The industry features a mix of independent studios, large corporate developers, and publishers, focusing on action, strategy, and simulation games. With a growing emphasis on mobile and online platforms, developers are capitalizing on player engagement and interactive experiences. Interestingly, the German market is recognized globally for its robust approach to game design and development, supported by government initiatives and a dedicated talent pool. As technology evolves, there's a notable push towards immersive experiences, including augmented and virtual reality integrations, shaping the future of gaming.

This list highlights 23 significant game development companies located across Germany. Headquarters span cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Berlin, employing thousands of skilled professionals. Founded between the 1990s and 2020, many firms leverage their collective experience to create engaging games for PC, console, and mobile platforms. Specializations range from AAA titles to indie productions and include development services. Notably, companies exhibit a blend of independent spirit and corporate backing, reflecting both creative and technical prowess in their offerings.

Continue reading to explore the top game development companies in Germany.

Top 23 Game Development Companies in Germany

1. Crytek

• Website: crytek.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 84%, Turkey 5%, Other 11%
• Latest funding: March 2017
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: crytek

Crytek GmbH, founded in 1999 and based in Frankfurt, Germany, is a video game developer and publisher known for its commitment to creating immersive gaming experiences. The company has developed several acclaimed titles, including the Crysis series and Hunt: Showdown, which have garnered attention for their graphics and gameplay mechanics. Crytek also offers CRYENGINE, a powerful game development platform that allows other developers to create high-quality games. With a workforce of approximately 528 employees, the company has maintained a significant presence in the gaming industry, focusing on innovation and technology to enhance player experiences. Their games have received numerous awards, highlighting their impact and relevance in the gaming sector.

2. Keen Games

• Website: keengames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 85%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Austria 4%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: keen-games

Keen Games, based in Frankfurt, Germany, is a video game developer and publisher that specializes in creating innovative sandbox gaming experiences. Founded in 2005, the company has a small team of around 50 employees, primarily located in Germany. Keen Games has developed a range of titles, with notable successes including 'Portal Knights', which won several awards, and 'Enshrouded', their first self-published game released in January 2024. The studio has transitioned from independent development to self-publishing, reflecting its ambition to grow and improve. Keen Games is also committed to sustainability, being a founding member of the Gamesforest Club, which supports climate initiatives. Their focus on community involvement and crafting engaging adventures positions them as a noteworthy player in the gaming industry.

3. InnoGames

• Website: innogames.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 94%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: May 2017
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: innogames-gmbh

InnoGames GmbH, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a video game developer and publisher that specializes in free-to-play online and mobile games. Founded in 2007 by brothers Hendrik and Eike Klindworth along with their friend Michael Zillmer, the company has grown to employ around 415 people. InnoGames is known for its engaging strategy and RPG titles, which include popular games like 'Forge of Empires', 'Grepolis', and 'Tribal Wars'. The company has successfully transitioned from browser-based games to mobile platforms, ensuring that their games are accessible to a global audience. InnoGames emphasizes player engagement and community involvement, regularly updating their games based on player feedback. Their commitment to quality and player satisfaction has earned them several awards, including the German Computer Games Award. InnoGames operates under the ownership of Modern Times Group, which allows them to collaborate with other gaming studios worldwide.

4. Yager

• Website: yager.de
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 96%, Spain 3%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: June 2021
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: yager

Yager Development, based in Berlin, Germany, is a game development studio founded in 1999 by a group of passionate developers. The company specializes in creating innovative online action games that prioritize social interaction among players. With a team of approximately 130 employees, Yager has built a reputation for delivering unique gaming experiences. They gained recognition for their critically acclaimed title 'Spec Ops: The Line', which won multiple awards for its narrative and gameplay. Over the years, Yager has evolved, moving from collaborations with publishers to self-publishing their games, such as 'The Cycle'. They are also a member of the Tencent family, which has allowed them to expand their capabilities and resources. Yager's commitment to quality, creativity, and player engagement positions them as a notable player in the game development industry.

5. Goodgame Studios

• Website: goodgamestudios.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 94%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: $317.9M, December 2017
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: goodgame-studios

Goodgame Studios, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a video game developer and publisher that specializes in free-to-play mobile and browser games. Since its inception in 2009, the company has developed a range of strategy and simulation games that cater to a global audience. Their portfolio includes well-known titles such as Goodgame Empire, Empire: Four Kingdoms, and BitLife. Goodgame Studios emphasizes community engagement, offering players a platform to connect and compete. The company has achieved significant milestones, including surpassing 500 million registered users and generating over one billion euros in revenue from its Empire brand. With a workforce of around 167 employees, Goodgame Studios is recognized as one of the prominent employers in the German gaming industry, showcasing a commitment to quality and player satisfaction.

6. Travian Games

• Website: traviangames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 96%, Netherlands 2%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: travian-games

Travian Games GmbH, based in Munich, Germany, is a game development company that specializes in creating and publishing multiplayer online games. Since its inception in 2005, the company has focused on delivering strategic and engaging gameplay experiences. Notable titles include Travian: Legends, Rail Nation, and Arkheim - Realms at War, which have attracted a significant number of players. The company operates primarily in the online gaming industry, with a workforce of around 165 employees, predominantly located in Germany. Travian Games has been recognized for its contributions to the gaming community, including awards for its development efforts. The company also emphasizes social responsibility, engaging in various charitable initiatives, such as supporting education and research projects. This commitment to community involvement reflects a broader understanding of its role within the industry.

7. Kalypso Media Group

• Website: kalypsomedia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Worms, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 70%, United States (USA) 13%, Japan 8%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: kalypso-media-group-gmbh

Kalypso Media Group, based in Worms, Germany, is a private video game developer and publisher that specializes in interactive entertainment software. Since its inception in 2006, the company has built a reputation for creating engaging strategy games that appeal to a global audience. Kalypso operates through its own development studios, including Realmforge Studios and Gaming Minds Studios, and collaborates with independent developers to enhance its game offerings. The company has a strong digital distribution network, which supports its titles across various platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. Notable releases include Tropico 6, Railway Empire, and the upcoming Commandos: Origins. Kalypso's focus on quality and gameplay ensures that it remains a relevant entity in the competitive gaming industry.

8. DECK 13 Interactive GmbH

• Website: deck13.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: June 2020
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: deck13-interactive-gmbh

DECK 13 Interactive GmbH, based in Frankfurt, Germany, is a video game developer and publisher with a strong presence in the gaming industry since its inception in 2001. The company has developed a variety of titles, including popular action RPGs like 'The Surge' and 'Atlas Fallen'. With a workforce of approximately 76 employees, DECK 13 has built a reputation for creating engaging gaming experiences. They also operate a publishing division, Deck13 Spotlight, which assists independent developers in reaching wider audiences. This division has successfully published several games, enhancing DECK 13's role in the gaming ecosystem. The company is currently expanding its operations with a new branch in Montreal, reflecting its ambition to grow and innovate further in the gaming sector.

9. Ubisoft Blue Byte GmbH

• Website: bluebyte.ubisoft.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: ubisoftbluebyte

Ubisoft Blue Byte GmbH, founded in 1988, is a prominent video game developer based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. As part of the Ubisoft family, Blue Byte operates three studios located in Berlin, Düsseldorf, and Mainz. The company is well-known for its AAA game development, contributing to major franchises such as Anno and Rainbow Six Siege. With a workforce of approximately 205 employees, Blue Byte has established itself as a key player in the German gaming industry. The studio is dedicated to creating engaging gaming experiences across various platforms, catering to an international audience. Their involvement extends beyond game development; they actively participate in community engagement and educational initiatives, aiming to foster talent and promote the gaming industry in Germany. Blue Byte's commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their ongoing projects and collaborations within the Ubisoft network.

10. XYRALITY GmbH

• Website: xyrality.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 90%, Ukraine 10%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: xyrality-gmbh

XYRALITY GmbH, based in Hamburg, Germany, is an independent game development and publishing company founded in 2011. With a team of around 50 employees, the company specializes in next-generation MMOGs, allowing players to engage across multiple platforms, including mobile devices and browsers. XYRALITY has published four titles worldwide and has achieved over 20 million downloads, showcasing their ability to reach a broad audience. They have been recognized as a top mobile developer and have received accolades such as 'Best of App Store' in multiple years. The company is committed to enhancing user experience through continuous updates and live events, reflecting their focus on player engagement and satisfaction.

11. HandyGames

• Website: handy-games.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Giebelstadt, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: July 2018
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: www.handy-games.com-gmbh-handygames-

HandyGames is a video game publisher and developer based in Giebelstadt, Bavaria, Germany. Since its inception in 2000, the company has focused on creating and publishing engaging games for consoles, PC, and mobile platforms. HandyGames is part of the THQ Nordic and Embracer Group family, which allows it to leverage additional resources and support in the gaming market. The company has a strong emphasis on innovation, producing titles for cutting-edge platforms, including virtual reality systems. Their portfolio features a variety of games, from family-friendly titles to those addressing more serious themes, reflecting their commitment to providing quality entertainment. HandyGames has built a reputation for delivering premium mobile games and has successfully expanded its offerings to include games for major consoles and PC distribution channels. With a dedicated team and a passion for gaming, HandyGames continues to shape its presence in the international gaming community.

12. Gunzilla Games

• Website: gunzillagames.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Employee distribution: Ukraine 52%, Germany 28%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Other 12%
• Latest funding: April 2025
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: gunzilla-games

Gunzilla Games is a video game developer based in Frankfurt, Germany, with additional studios in Kyiv, Ukraine, and London, UK. Founded in 2020, the company is dedicated to crafting immersive gaming experiences that prioritize player enjoyment. Gunzilla focuses on innovative titles, particularly within the battle royale genre, and emphasizes cutting-edge technology in its development process. The team comprises experienced professionals from various sectors of the gaming industry, bringing a wealth of knowledge and creativity to their projects. Notably, Gunzilla is co-founded by Vlad Korolev and Alex Zoll, who have backgrounds in technology and game development, respectively. The company is also recognized for its commitment to quality and engagement, striving to redefine player experiences through its upcoming title, "Off The Grid."

13. Chimera Entertainment

• Website: chimera-entertainment.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: chimera-entertainment

Chimera Entertainment is an independent game development studio based in Munich, Germany, founded in 2006. The company specializes in creating innovative video games across multiple platforms, with a portfolio that includes over 25 titles. Notable games include 'Angry Birds Epic', a role-playing game developed in collaboration with Rovio Entertainment, and 'Songs of Silence', a strategy game that showcases their creative approach to game design. Chimera is recognized for its commitment to teamwork and flexibility, allowing for remote and hybrid work arrangements. The studio has also been involved in developing games for established intellectual properties, such as the upcoming 'Shadow and Bone: Enter The Fold' for Netflix. This involvement highlights their ability to adapt to market demands and collaborate with larger entities in the industry.

14. Ubisoft Berlin

• Website: berlin.ubisoft.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ubisoft-berlin

Ubisoft Berlin is a video game development studio located in the heart of Berlin, Germany. Founded in 2018, the studio specializes in co-developing AAA titles, working closely with other Ubisoft teams to enhance gameplay and technical features. Their portfolio includes significant contributions to popular franchises such as Rainbow Six Siege, Skull and Bones, and Far Cry 6. Ubisoft Berlin aims to create meaningful gaming experiences, focusing on quality and innovation. The studio employs a team of around 88 professionals who are dedicated to delivering excellence in game development. Their collaborative approach and commitment to the gaming community position them as a relevant player in the industry.

15. Independent Arts Software GmbH

• Website: independent-arts-software.de
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hamm, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: April 2023
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: independent-arts-software-gmbh

Independent Arts Software GmbH, based in Hamm, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a video game development studio that has been crafting commercial game software since its inception in 1990. With a workforce of 11 to 50 employees, the company has developed over 250 titles across various genres and platforms. Their notable games include Police Simulator – Prop Hunt and Construction Simulator 4, which cater to both consumers and businesses. Recently, they have expanded their services to include content creation for platforms like Fortnite, showcasing their versatility in the gaming industry. In April 2023, Independent Arts Software was acquired by astragon Entertainment, a subsidiary of Team17 Group PLC, which strengthens their position in the simulation game market and allows for further development of new simulation brands. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in their journey, indicating their ongoing relevance and potential for growth in the gaming sector.

16. Realmforge Studios GmbH

• Website: realmforgestudios.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: December 2020
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: realmforge-studios-gmbh

Realmforge Studios GmbH, founded in 2008 and based in Munich, Germany, is a video game developer specializing in high-quality simulation and strategy games. The company has a dedicated team of around 40 experienced professionals who have collectively contributed to the development of nine full-price games, which have been translated into 15 languages and distributed worldwide, both digitally and in retail. Realmforge Studios is recognized as a certified developer for major gaming platforms, including PlayStation and Xbox, and has been developing for these platforms since 2011. Their notable projects include titles like 'Dungeons' and 'Ceville', which have received nominations and awards, showcasing their commitment to quality and innovation in the gaming industry.

17. Limbic Entertainment GmbH

• Website: limbic-entertainment.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Langen, Hesse, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 71%, Egypt 27%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: limbic-entertainment-gmbh

Limbic Entertainment GmbH, based in Langen, Hesse, Germany, is a video game developer that has been active since its founding in 2002. The company specializes in creating high-quality entertainment software, focusing on game design and programming for PC and next-generation consoles. Limbic has developed a range of games, including popular titles such as Tropico 6, Park Beyond, and Memories of Mars. With a workforce of approximately 100 employees, the company has released over 80 product versions across various genres, including strategy and survival games. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their use of advanced technologies, such as Unreal Engine 5, to enhance gameplay experiences. Limbic's recent acquisition by Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe marks a significant milestone, potentially providing them with greater resources and opportunities for growth in the competitive gaming market.

18. Wooga

• Website: wooga.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: December 2018
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: wooga

Wooga, founded in 2009 and based in Berlin, Germany, is a mobile game developer known for its story-driven casual games. The company has carved out a niche in the gaming industry by creating engaging titles that prioritize narrative and player interaction. Notable games include 'June's Journey', which has achieved over $1 billion in lifetime revenue, and 'Ghost Detective', which recently launched on Netflix Games. Wooga operates primarily in the mobile gaming sector and has established itself as a prominent player in the hidden object game genre. The company is part of Playtika Holding Corp., which allows it to leverage additional resources while maintaining its unique identity. Wooga is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability, having achieved carbon neutrality and engaging in community initiatives. With a workforce of around 398 employees, Wooga emphasizes collaboration and creativity in its game development process.

19. Nukklear

• Website: nukklear.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 83%, Portugal 17%
• Latest funding: $7.1M, April 2023
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nukklear

Nukklear GmbH, based in Hanover, Germany, is a game development studio founded in 2007. The company has built a reputation for creating original video games and providing development services to other studios. With a team of over 50 professionals, Nukklear combines the experience of veteran developers with the fresh perspectives of emerging talent. Their projects include both in-house intellectual properties like 'Fog & Silver' and 'Klaus Lee', as well as work-for-hire projects such as 'Comanche', 'Super Meat Boy Forever', and 'Destroy All Humans'. Nukklear has also partnered with notable companies like Funcom for the upcoming Dune survival game, demonstrating their collaborative approach. Recently, they received a significant grant from Epic Games, which will support their development efforts using Unreal Engine. This funding, along with their ongoing projects, positions Nukklear as a relevant player in the game development industry.

20. Black Forest Games GmbH

• Website: black-forest-games.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Offenburg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 97%, France 3%
• Latest funding: August 2017
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: black-forest-games

Black Forest Games GmbH, based in Offenburg, Germany, is a video game developer founded in 2012. The company specializes in creating high-quality games for PC and console platforms. With a dedicated team of around 60 employees, many of whom bring over two decades of industry experience, Black Forest Games has developed a reputation for producing engaging and visually appealing titles. Their notable works include 'Destroy All Humans!', a remake of the classic alien invasion game, and 'Fade to Silence', a survival RPG set in a harsh, post-apocalyptic environment. Recently, they have also worked on 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin', showcasing their ability to handle established franchises. Since 2017, Black Forest Games has been part of the THQ Nordic group, which allows them to leverage the resources of a larger publisher while maintaining their creative independence. This partnership has further solidified their position in the gaming industry, enabling them to pursue ambitious projects and reach a wider audience.

21. Stratosphere Games GmbH

• Website: stratosphere-games.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 97%, Poland 3%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), August 2022
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: stratosphere-games-gmbh

Stratosphere Games GmbH is a Berlin-based game development studio established in 2015. With a team of around 37 employees, many of whom are veterans from prominent companies like Splash Damage, Wargaming, and Ubisoft, Stratosphere Games specializes in creating mobile games that deliver engaging and high-quality experiences. Their notable titles include 'Desolation', a looter-shooter designed for mobile devices, 'Dawn of Ages', a strategy game that allows players to guide city-states through history, and 'Homeworld Mobile', which expands the beloved Homeworld franchise to mobile platforms. The studio emphasizes innovative gameplay mechanics and multiplayer features, aiming to enhance player retention and engagement. Stratosphere Games has also received support from the German Games Fund, indicating recognition within the industry. Their focus on mobile gaming aligns with current trends, making them a relevant player in the game development sector.

22. Tiny Roar

• Website: tinyroar.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tiny-roar-games

Tiny Roar is a Hamburg-based game development studio founded in 2015 by Maurice Hagelstein and Robert Koch. With a team of approximately 25 employees, the company is dedicated to crafting polished and engaging video games across various platforms. Their portfolio includes titles such as 'Into The Emberlands', a cozy exploration game with rogue-lite elements, and 'XEL', which reflects their commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences. Tiny Roar emphasizes a collaborative work environment and values player feedback, which they integrate into their development process. This approach not only enhances their games but also fosters a supportive culture within the studio. The company has not reported any external funding, indicating a self-sustained operation focused on growth through innovation and player engagement.

23. Thoughtfish GmbH

• Website: thoughtfish.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 90%, France 3%, Ukraine 3%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: thoughtfish-gmbh

Thoughtfish GmbH, founded in 2013 and based in Berlin, Germany, is a game development company that specializes in creating immersive games and gamified applications. The company leverages its proprietary COALA technology, which allows for context-aware gaming experiences that react to users' real-world surroundings. Thoughtfish aims to redefine mobile gaming by encouraging players to explore their environments while engaging with digital content. Their portfolio includes projects like 'Living Room' and 'Earthscaper', which showcase their focus on augmented reality and real-world interaction. With a team of 30 employees, Thoughtfish is committed to innovation in the gaming sector, catering to both consumers and businesses. They have not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained operational model.

Game Development Insights: Key Companies in Germany

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