Tiga calls for cultural test input on tax breaks

Tiga is calling on developers to offer their views on how the cultural test for the games tax breaks should be implemented.

The UK trade body is currently working with the Government to help determine the details of the test, which will be similar to the one that already exists for the Film Tax Credit.

The key points of the test include cultural heritage, whether the game is based on Britsh or European locations, characters, literature, film and language or on British Heritage.

Other key elements set to be included are whether the game provides any innovation in gameplay and tech, whether development is taking place in the UK and the creative input of UK or EEA nationals.

Tiga however said it is keen to gather opinion from its members and the wider industry to help further tailor a cultural test more specifically suited to the games industry.

The trade organisation is asking developers and publishers to leave their opinions on its Twitter or Facebook account with feedback on the following questions:

Would you expect the test to focus on the creators or the content of a game?

What elements of British culture would you like to see represented more in games? Our diversity and regional differences are as important as our wider shared traits and heritage.

Would you expect to see this reflected in the cultural test?

Do you think that science fiction and fantasy games can reflect British culture?

Do you think that innovation in game design should be rewarded in the test?

Do you think that art involved in games production should be rewarded in the test?

"Tiga’s aim is to strengthen the UK games development and digital publishing sector and to ensure that the industry contributes to economic growth,” said Tiga CEO Richard Wilson.

“Video games can be cultural products and provided that the cultural test is designed to reflect the nature of video games, then the culturally based Games Tax Relief will give a powerful boost to the UK games sector. “

You can post your views on Tiga’s Twitter account or Facebook page.