The French government has extended its video games tax credit scheme for an additional six years, until December 31, 2028.

The information was confirmed earlier this month by French Minister for the Digital Transition Jean-Noël Barrot, at Paris Game Week.

The criteria to be eligible is also evolving, with the aim to be more streamlined and accessible, with some new parameters introduced.

For instance, a new focus will now be put on original creations (meaning new IP and/or new narrative or visual concepts), technological innovations, and projects that highlight the European identity and/or are inspired by European heritage.

Since its inception in 2008, the French video game tax relief has supported over 370 projects from 150 development studios.

For studios matching the criteria, the scheme gives access to a 30% tax rebate on development cost. Since 2017, French studios have received over €220 million in funding from the tax relief scheme.

In 2021, 38 projects benefited from it, representing €43 million in tax rebate.