Stein Løtveit prepares to launch “Sacre Bleu” game as Norwegian gaming industry thrives

The gaming industry is a booming billion-dollar sector, and Stein Løtveit from Drammen is working hard to establish his place in it. “I promised my wife I would finish within a year, but now it’s been nine,” he says as he logs onto his computer. His game, titled “Sacre Bleu,” involves collaboration with developers based in countries like France, Canada, Spain, and Thailand.

When seeking feedback on the game, the response was clear: it needed more action and faster gameplay. The countdown to launch is now underway, and delivering a fast-paced experience is crucial for Løtveit. “I want players to easily pick up and set down a game. A level should be completable in five minutes, allowing time for homework, dinner, or exercise,” he emphasizes.

The inspiration for his game came in 2009 when he sketched some musketeers, envisioning it as a potential game concept. He downloaded a game engine in 2015, and “then it just happened.” After putting the project on hold while living on two continents and having two children, Løtveit has dedicated the last year solely to this endeavor.

The gaming industry in Norway is experiencing significant growth. According to recent reports, revenue from Norwegian games reached 652 million kroner in 2022, marking a 47% increase from the previous year and a 115% rise over five years. The workforce has more than tripled, with a notable 70% increase in the past year, and the proportion of women in the industry has risen to nearly one-third.

Experts believe that the Norwegian gaming industry is steadily improving. While it remains smaller compared to other Nordic countries, there is optimism for a breakthrough, with many developers striving for success despite the challenges of creating marketable games.