Riyadh - Sharikat Mubasher: The Saudi Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT), represented by the Center of Digital Entrepreneurship (CODE), launched the ‘Code NINE66’ program in partnership with Savvy Games Group and Exel by Merak to foster national talents and entrepreneurs in the gaming sector.

The ministry revealed that the program aims to empower participants to transform innovative ideas into minimum viable products (MVPs) and establish promising startups that shape the future of the gaming industry in the Kingdom.

Code NINE66 includes a Game Jam and a Game Incubator and targets aspiring entrepreneurs, developers, artists, and innovators who are passionate about creating video games and building successful gaming startups.

The program starts with an immersive Game Jam, where participants come together to form teams, develop innovative game concepts, and build playable prototypes within a limited timeframe. Throughout the event, they will have the opportunity to collaborate with talented individuals, receive valuable feedback from industry experts, and refine their ideas into compelling game projects.

At the conclusion of the Game Jam, all projects will be evaluated, and the top 10 teams will be selected to advance to the Incubation Program.

The Incubation phase will provide participants with specialized mentorship, training, and business support to help them transform their game concepts into market-ready products.

Participants will work closely with industry professionals to enhance gameplay experiences, strengthen production quality, validate business models, and gain insights into market trends and commercial opportunities.