The Kingdom’s commitment to boosting the gaming industry began more than two decades ago and was heightened with the establishment of the Jordan Gaming Lab in 2011. The lab, supported by the King Abdullah II Fund for Development, has been essential in nurturing young talent in game development, having already aided over 10,000 young enthusiasts through free courses covering various gaming aspects—from creation to marketing.
While these initiatives are commendable, there's an opportunity to propel Jordan's gaming sector to even greater heights. As the Kingdom looks to tap into the over $300 billion global gaming market, I've outlined my perspectives on how Jordan can expand this thriving field and establish its influence on a worldwide scale.
5G Standalone (SA)
Investing in 5G Standalone (SA), which fully utilizes 5G's capabilities, ensures low latency and alleviates the burden of processing heavy data. This facilitates high-resolution immersive XR experiences accessible to users globally. With 5G SA, the gaming experience becomes seamless and truly immersive, enabling real-time, high-definition cloud gaming without traditional hardware constraints.
5G-Powered Technologies
By integrating 5G-powered technologies such as artificial intelligence and data analytics, Jordan can redefine the gaming landscape, enhancing game mechanics and delivering personalized experiences. These advancements will not only elevate the quality of games produced in the Kingdom but also attract a global audience, solidifying its position as a gaming hub.
XR Devices
XR devices, including virtual reality and augmented reality devices, provide truly engaging adventures by streaming high-quality XR content to create fully immersive environments. To lead the gaming revolution, Jordan must prioritize empowering and investing in innovative XR technologies from pioneering startups. This initiative, combined with 5G and edge computing capabilities, will transform immersive multi-user experiences into tangible realities.
Packages for Gaming
Communication Service Providers (CSPs) should offer tailored packages and services designed for gamers, such as high-speed gaming plans with prioritized bandwidth and data bundles for cloud gaming. Additionally, monetizing the 5G network through innovative strategies like in-game purchases and exclusive digital content directly through mobile billing will simplify transactions for users and ensure secure payments.
Responsible Gaming Practices
As Jordan embarks on its journey to become a global gaming powerhouse, it is imperative to establish robust regulations and promote ethical gaming practices. Responsible gaming ensures the well-being of players and safeguards against potential harms such as addiction and excessive spending. By implementing comprehensive regulations, including age restrictions, parental controls, and transparency in loot box mechanics, Jordan can create a safe and inclusive gaming environment for all.
As Jordan embraces the transformative power of 5G, the gaming industry emerges as a key beneficiary of this technological revolution. Early investments in training young developers will not only elevate gaming experiences but also drive economic growth and foster social inclusion, unlocking a world of possibilities for both the Kingdom and its citizens.
However, realizing the full potential of 5G in gaming requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders—government, industry players, and civil society alike. By investing in infrastructure development, fostering an enabling regulatory environment, promoting digital literacy, and prioritizing ethical gaming practices, Jordan can position itself as a regional leader in 5G-powered gaming.
A key contribution to the ecosystem in the Kingdom is the opening of a new Ericsson office and the appointment of General Manager Marwan Omari. This new office will accelerate the integration of cutting-edge 5G technologies into Jordan's digital growth, particularly in the gaming industry. It will also provide a platform for local talent to collaborate with Ericsson’s global experts, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
Our commitment is to continue facilitating the Kingdom’s digital aspirations by providing vital IT infrastructure and technological solutions at this fundamental moment in its journey towards a future where gaming knows no bounds—a future powered by the boundless potential of 5G technology.
