Why Poland Has Become a Gaming Hub in the EU

A moment that really announced Poland’s arrival on the international gaming market was the release of the globally acclaimed The Witcher franchise. Developed by CD Projekt Red, the series demonstrated the Polish studios’ ability to create world-class AAA titles. The Witcher series, which has gone on to generate over $1 billion in revenue, is praised for having a deep narrative, a beautiful cinematic production, and wide commercial appeal.

Alongside AAA game productions, the country also has a booming mobile gaming sector.
Driven by high smartphone penetration, strong local developers, and a growing user base, mobile gaming in Poland offers world-class mobile gaming experiences.

The strong gaming foundation in Poland naturally overlaps with the growing gambling industry, as several software development companies have recently expanded their operations to Poland. The most notable are SOFTSWISS, which opened a new branch in Poznań, and Playtech, which also started its Polish adventure in the Warsaw business district.

While online casinos are not regulated in Poland, as only a licensed state betting and lottery
market is, Polish players can still access iGaming platforms through offshore platforms, like those hosted in the UK. These platforms offer numerous games with modern designs, generous bonuses, and cutting-edge payment methods (source: https://esports-news.co.uk/online-casinos/slots/).

Beyond mobile gaming and big-budget productions, the country also has a thriving independent gaming sector. Independent Polish game studios have a reputation for technical reliability and creative problem-solving, leading to games that are fun and engaging. A notable Polish indie title is SUPERHOT, a revolutionary first-person shooter game where time moves only when you move.

Another important factor behind Poland’s meteoric rise in the gaming world is the country’s
willingness to invest in gaming infrastructure. This enthusiasm for gaming and technology has led to the launch of many gaming projects, including a major gaming hub in Katowice.
Announced in August 2025, the project represents a big revitalisation of the historic "Wieczorek" coal mine site. The site was transformed into a digital innovation centre for gaming, esports, AI, and digital technology. Costing more than PLN 1.2 billion, it will be one of the largest technological projects in the country to date.

Education also plays an important role in the growth of gaming in Poland. Polish universities and technical schools have expanded programs in computer science, game design, and digital arts. This expansion not only promotes gaming in the country but also ensures a stable pipeline of future tech talent for the gaming industry.

It is also relatively easy for games to be developed efficiently in Poland. The country has
comparatively lower development costs when compared to other European countries, making Poland highly competitive without sacrificing quality. The government also supports the development industry through tax incentives and EU funding.

An additional defining characteristic of the Polish gaming industry is its strong sense of
community and collaboration. Game developers, publishers, and tech professionals constantly work together through game jams and industry events that foster knowledge sharing and innovation. This collaborative culture helps smaller studios gain visibility while allowing larger companies to spot new talent and incubate new ideas.