Russian President Explores Creating Game Consoles
After several gaming companies closed down in Russia, President Vladimir Putin has reportedly instructed the government to investigate the development of indigenous game consoles.
Russian Gaming Industry Overview
Russia, known for the iconic game Tetris created by Alexey Pajitnov in 1985, currently has limited presence in the global gaming scene, with a few exceptions like Ice-Pick Lodge and 1C Company.
Putin’s Initiative
Despite not being an expert in gaming, Putin is exploring the possibility of Russian-made gaming consoles. He has directed the government to assess the requirements for producing both stationary and portable consoles in the country.
Development Plans
- Order issued after a recent meeting to develop operating system and cloud system for game delivery
- Deadline set for June 15, 2024
- Task entrusted to Russian tech company VK
Challenges and Realistic Options
While creating consoles like PlayStation and Xbox from scratch may take up to a decade, sourcing gaming hardware from China to build a portable console similar to Valve’s Steam Deck seems a more feasible option.
Background and Context
In 2022, major gaming companies like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo ceased operations in Russia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine. Putin’s interest in gaming was also evident when he organized an esports tournament featuring games like World Of Tanks and League Of Legends.
