WHAT IS SAVVY GAMES GROUP?

Savvy Games Group is a games and esports company formed with a mission to drive the long-term growth and development of esports and the broader games industry worldwide. The games industry is one of the most exciting and buoyant sectors globally, with games the world’s fastest-growing form of entertainment and esports the world’s fastest-growing sport. Through games, we see people of all backgrounds, ages, nationalities, genders and abilities connect, play, learn, compete and triumph together. We believe that games and esports are fast becoming key enablers for better entertainment, health, and education. Savvy Games Group exists to lead global games investment and growth by empowering people. One of Savvy’s core strategic objectives is the development of a robust gaming and esports ecosystem in Saudi Arabia. By fostering innovation and investing in local talent, we aim to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for game development and esports.

WHAT IS SAVVY ACADEMY?

The Savvy Academy’s mission is to train & empower the future generations of game makers and esports managers. We believe in the high potential of Saudi youth and have developed several intertwined programs designed to provide these aspiring game changers with career awareness, readiness, experience, and venture.

WHAT DOES THE “PROJECTS, PEERS, PASSION, PLAY” METHOD REFERS TO?

Each of Savvy Academy’s programs are fully designed around the key pillars of bestselling book Lifelong Kindergarten, by Mitchel Resnick (MIT Media Lab, 2017): Projects, Peers, Passion and Play. These pillars create a learning environment that mirrors the dynamic, creative experiences found in a kindergarten setting, which are known to be optimal for learning journeys, no matter the age of the learner.​

WHAT TYPE OF PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED BY THE SAVVY ACADEMY?

The Savvy Academy offers a variety of programs, targeting different purposes, addressing several audiences.

• Next-Gen refers to workshops to build career awareness. Courses are delivered in-person to middle and high-school pupils.
• Level Up refers to college programs to build career readiness. Courses are delivered in-person to college students.
• Kickstarter refers to internship to build career experience. Courses are delivered in-person to Savvy Games Group interns.
• Incubator refers to courses to build venture. Courses are delivered online to aspiring entrepreneurs.

ARE THE PROGRAMS FREE OR PAID FOR?

At the Savvy Academy we believe that talent is equaly spread, but opportunies are not. That’s why we’re working hard to reach as many people as possible, no matter their financial situation. Our programs are fully funded by Savvy Games Group and our partners.

IS THE SAVVY ACADEMY ACCREDITED?

Savvy Games teams up with schools and educational institutions to run the Next-Gen, Level-Up, and Incubator Programs. Some of these schools are accredited and might offer credits for attending. We recommend reaching out to each partner directly for more details.

WHAT IS THE SAVVY ACADEMY POSITION TOWARDS THE TEACHING OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOLS?

We get that AI comes with its concerns, and we take them seriously. While we see AI as a powerful way to boost creativity, efficiency, and innovation, we believe it’s just a tool—not a substitute for human creativity. It can help in many ways, but it’ll never match the depth of human thinking, emotions, or judgment. That’s why we’re all about using AI responsibly, making sure it supports human values and contributions instead of replacing them.

WHAT IS THE SAVVY NEXT-GEN PROGRAM?

The Savvy Next-Gen Program is a hands-on workshop for local middle and high school students (ages 10-17) to explore careers in the games industry. Over 24 sessions, they’ll create their own tabletop game from idea to final product!

WHAT IS THE KEY TAKEAWAYS OF THE PROGRAM FOR PUPILS?

The main takeaway? Kids will discover the endless job opportunities that make the games industry so exciting! By stepping into 17 different roles across the production pipeline, we aim to spark their interest—who knows, some might even consider a career in this booming industry after high school. On top of that, our curriculum is designed so that every participant, whether they want to work in games or not, gets to practice essential soft skills like creativity, communication, and teamwork. No matter what career path they choose, these skills will be invaluable!

I’M AN INDIVIDUAL, HOW CAN I ATTEND?

The Savvy Next-Gen Program is created entirely by Savvy Academy, but our partners run it. To join, you either need to be a pupil at a partner school or let your school’s leaders know about it so they can sign up!

I REPRESENT A SCHOOL/INSTITUTION, HOW CAN I OFFER THIS PROGRAM?

Great to hear you’re excited to move forward and give your pupils access to the awesome Savvy Next-Gen Program! Just head over to our website and fill out the form to apply. One of our team members will get back to you soon after we receive your request!

24-SESSIONS MIGHT NOT FIT MY SETUP, HOW FLEXIBLE IS THE PROGRAM?

We totally get that schools have different setups and limitations. That’s why our program is super flexible—it can run as an after-school activity, a summer program, or even be part of the regular curriculum. The 24 courses can be taught individually, in 2-hour sessions, or even longer if needed. Plus, each session is labeled as Mandatory, Recommended, or Optional, so instructors can easily adjust based on their class schedule.

WHY BUILD A TABLETOP AND NOT A VIDEO GAME?

The Savvy Next-Gen Program is designed as a 24-session course to fit the needs of schools that have limited time. With this timeframe, students would either get only a brief introduction to game design or have to focus on just one specific aspect. But thanks to the accessibility of tabletop games, they get to experience the entire process—from concept to completion—including game design, production, and even publishing. Interestingly, about 75% of the production pipeline is the same for both tabletop and video games. The key difference? Tabletop games require manufacturing, while video games involve programming. This low-tech approach makes the curriculum accessible to all schools and allows students to keep refining their games at home, even after class. Plus, most video game designers spend a lot of time building physical prototypes before developing their digital games—so students will be learning in a way that mirrors real industry practices!

WHAT DOES THE CURRICULIUM LOOK LIKE?

This curriculum is super easy to use—if you can turn on a computer, browse the internet, and copy/paste into PowerPoint, you’re good to go! (Which means 99.9% of instructors qualify!) Our handbook has everything you need: video tutorials, resource links, a list of materials, a detailed minute-by-minute schedule, and more.

WHAT TYPE OF MATERIAL IS REQUIRED?

We kept the hardware and software requirements super simple on purpose. Each class only needs one computer with internet access and a big screen or projector for presentations. A few software licenses are needed too, but they’re easy to buy online in just a few clicks and cost SAR 225 per month for the whole class. As for hardware, students just need some paper, pencils, a pair of scissors, a spark of creativity, and a whole lot of curiosity!

CAN SAVVY GAMES PROVIDE FUNDINGS TO HELP THE INSTITUTION PURCHASE SOME MATERIAL?

Savvy might help out with funding for learning institutions on a case-by-case basis, mostly to cover license fees.

IN WHICH LANGUAGES IS THE NEXT-GEN PROGRAM AVAILABLE?

The Next-Gen Program is available in both Arabic and English. You can download all the content—slideshows, handbooks, and video tutorials—in either language.

CAN MY INSTITUTION CHARGE FEES TO ATTENDEES?

No. Regardless of Savvy Games’ ability to fund your institution for the program, it must be completely free for the students/attendees.

CAN SAVVY GAMES PROVIDE INSTRUCTORS?

Sorry, but Savvy Games can’t provide instructors for your institution. However, as mentioned earlier, the curriculum is super easy to teach, even for someone with basic tech knowledge. Honestly, the toughest part of the job is just keeping a classroom full of excited kids under control! To make things as smooth as possible for instructors, we’re providing:

• A detailed handbook
• Tutorial videos for each session
• Ready-to-use PowerPoint slides
• Step-by-step demonstrations
• A backup “Escape Door” option to ensure they can still deliver a playable game

WHAT IS THE SAVVY LEVEL-UP PROGRAM?

The Savvy Level-Up Program helps local college students get ready for careers in the video game and esports industry with customized courses. It focuses on building the right mix of soft skills, technical know-how, and industry knowledge to help them succeed. The goal? Making sure they’re career-ready!

HOW DOES SAVVY LEVEL-UP DIFFERS FROM OTHER PROGRAMS?

The Savvy Level-Up Program is all about getting you career-ready. Our main goal is to make sure you have the right knowledge and skills to successfully start your journey in the video game and esports  industry. As a major player in the MENA region, the Savvy Games team has packed all their industry know-how into creating the most job-focused curriculums out there. We’ve also teamed up with top-tier educational institutions to make sure you’re learning from the best. And since the gaming industry is always evolving, we constantly update and improve our programs to keep them fresh and relevant. We know what you need to learn, our partners know how to teach it, and together, we’re here to give you the best experience possible!

WHICH TRACKS ARE AVAILABLE?

Most entry-level employees get their first job because they have solid basics and are really good at a specific skill. That’s why our Savvy Level-Up Program focuses on key high-demand roles in video game production and esports management. To cover most of what the industry needs, the program currently offers several tracks.

WHERE IS IT LOCATED, WHEN DOES IT START, WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Savvy Games has teamed up with educational institutions to run the Savvy Level-Up Program! Each track has its own setup, start date, selection process, curriculum, and location. For details, get in touch with our partner institutions directly. Note that we are still securing our partnerships and the partnering educational institutions will soon be disclosed.

DOES SAVVY GAMES OFFER INTERNSHIPS UPON GRADUATION?

Yep, we do! The Savvy Kickstarter Program is made just for that. Top students from the Savvy Level-Up Program might get the chance to land internships at Savvy Games Group and its subsidiaries, like Steer Studios, EFG, Scopely, and more.

ARE ANY OF THESE PROGRAMS OFFERED ONLINE?

No. All tracks of the Savvy Level-Up Program are only available in person at our partner universities. If you’re not local but can move, we recommend reaching out to the educational institutions directly for guidance on how to make it happen!

HOW MUCH IS THE TUITION FEE?

The majority of Savvy Level-Up Program tracks are 100% free for all students! Savvy Games Group covers the costs in partnership with each educational institution. Our goal is to support and uplift local, high-potential innovators, no matter their background or financial situation. All you need to get in is talent and motivation! Some tracks are paid for, but in partnership with the university, some scholarships are made available.

WHAT IS THE ADMISSION PROCESS?

The admission process for each track depends on the educational institution’s rules. For details and eligibility, it’s best to contact the educational institutions directly.

IS THIS PROGRAM CREDIT-GRANTING? WILL I GET A DEGREE OR A DIPLOMA?

Each educational institutions has its own degree & credit system. For details and eligibility, it’s best to contact the university directly.

WHAT IS THE SAVVY KICKSTARTER PROGRAM?

The Savvy Kickstarter Program helps local up-and-coming talent build the skills they need—both technical and soft skills—to succeed in the video game industry. Our goal? To make Saudi Arabia a hotspot for cutting-edge game development. Interns get hands-on training, and the best graduates land full-time entry-level jobs. Ready to level up your future? Apply now!

HOW DOES THE SAVVY KICKSTARTER PROGRAM DIFFERS FROM OTHER INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS?

This isn’t just another internship—it’s a game-changing experience. You’ll get top-notch training from international experts, plus hands-on learning and mentorship from our senior specialists. Our goal? To equip you with the skills and experience you need to thrive in the games industry. And yeah, the Savvy Kickstarter Program is intense, but you’re never on your own. You’ll have mentors and program managers by your side, giving you real-world knowledge, useful feedback, and constant support. We’re here to help you make the most of this journey—because when you succeed, we succeed!

IS IT PAID?

Yes! As an intern, you’ll get paid a competitive monthly stipend and receive health insurance.

WHERE IS IT HAPPENING?

Savvy Games Group is partnering with KSA studios. Although you will technically be a Savvy employee for administrative reasons, you will be trained at and by a local studio. The majority of the positions are held in-person, and some studios operate on an online-only setup.

WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT?

The Savvy Kickstarter Program lasts 6 months. As an intern, you’ll need to attend every week from Sunday to Thursday, 9 AM to 6 PM. No need to come in on weekends or national holidays!

DO I HAVE A GUARANTEE OF EMPLOYMENT AT THE END OF THE 6-MONTH INTERNSHIP?

We put in the time and effort to help our interns become strong candidates for a full-time job with us after their six-month internship. While we can’t promise a job at the end, your future here is largely in your hands—if you meet expectations, build the right skills, and show the right attitude, you’ll be giving yourself the best shot at a great career in the games industry!

IF I CAN’T JOIN THE UPCOMING COHORT, CAN I APPLY FOR A FOLLOWING ONE?

Yes. We get that work or personal commitments might make it tough for you to join this cohort. No worries—you’re welcome to apply for a future one! Keep an eye on our social media and website for updates on upcoming internship opportunities.

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR ADMISSION TO THE SAVVY KICKSTARTER PROGRAM?

All applicants must meet the following initial criteria:

• Pass the application process.
• Be a KSA national and/or children of a KSA mother.
• Speak good English.
• Be able to attend the internship from the studio’s location, or online when applicable.
• Be 18 years of age or older on the first day of internship.
• Be highly motivated & talented to keep up with the intensity of the training.
• Be free of any personal and professional obligations, or conflicts of interest.

WHICH TRACKS/POSITIONS ARE OFFERED IN THE SAVVY KICKSTARTER PROGRAM?

The positions offered through the Savvy Kickstarter Program are based on the current needs of the Group and partnering studios. Opportunities may include roles in game development—such as Gameplay Programming, Game Art, Game Design, Marketing Art, and UI/UX—as well as roles in support functions like Marketing, Procurement, Finance, and more. Specific details will be shared when positions become available.

WHAT IS THE APPLICATION PROCESS?

On the application process, you need to fill out a form and submit your resume, video cover letter, skills assessment, and portfolio for some tracks.

The video cover letter is designed to better know you, and measure your culture fit, communication skills, English level, emotional intelligence, and ability to follow instructions. The video should be 2 minutes long ± 15 seconds. After briefly presenting yourself, you shall answer to two questions separately: Why do you want to work in the video games industry? What can you bring to the video games industry? As per the setup, you are expected to be facing the camera with a neutral background. Final advice: carefully follow instructions and just be yourself!

For the skills assessment you will be provided very clear guidelines to build a project in adequation with your chosen track, and before a set deadline. This assessment will provide us with tangible data about your level of adaptability, creativity & problem-solving skills, and ability to follow guidelines in a timely manner. Don’t over think it, if you own your craft, this will be like a walk in the park!

The deadline to submit all the material is June 27th, 2026 at 11:59pm. You shall hear back from our final decision on July 30th, 2026 at the latest.

WHEN SHALL I EXPECT THE FINAL DECISION ABOUT MY APPLICATION?

If you are among the lucky ones to be admitted into our Savvy Kickstarter Program, you will be informed on July 30th, 2026 at the latest.

DO YOU CONSIDER GPA AND/OR DEGREES AS A SELECTION CRITERIA?

No, we do not consider GPA as a selection criteria. Talent, skills, and personality are your keys to get into the Savvy Kickstarter Program. Come as you are, as long as you have a great personality, and are (very) good at what you do!

THE MINIMUM AGE TO ATTEND THE PROGRAM IS 18 YEARS OLD. IS THERE AN UPPER AGE LIMIT?

No. If you are 18 or above on the first day of internship, you are welcome to apply.

I AM NOT A SAUDI NATIONAL, CAN I STILL APPLY?

No. This program is solely for Saudi nationals and/or children of a Saudi mother. You will be required to provide a valid national ID or Saudi passport prior to receiving an official internship offer.

IF I AM NOT ENROLLED INTO THE PROGRAM, WILL I BE PROVIDED WITH FEEDBACK ON WHAT TO IMPROVE?

Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications received, we are unable to offer personalized feedback. However, as a general observation, successful candidates often demonstrate a strong foundation in fundamental skills. We encourage you to focus on honing these basics, which serve as the cornerstone of expertise. With a solid groundwork established, you can then expand your repertoire by acquiring additional skills, tools, and software proficiencies.

I AM NOT LOCAL TO THE STUDIO’S HQ. DO YOU PROVIDE RELOCATION ALLOWANCES FOR THOSE ADMITTED INTO THE PROGRAM?

No, as an intern you are not eligible for any relocation package. Yet, you will be receiving free training, high-end on-the-job experience, a health insurance, and a competitive monthly stipend.

IF I HAPPEN TO BE ADMITTED INTO THE PROGRAM BUT CAN’T ATTEND FOR PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL REASONS, CAN I POSTPONE MY ENROLLMENT?

Regrettably, if you’re unable to participate in the cohort you’ve been invited to, your spot will be given to another candidate from the waitlist. If you wish to join a different cohort later on, you’ll be required to undergo the admission process from step 1, and compete again with all applicants.

ARE MY INFORMATION AND SUBMITTED DOCUMENTS KEPT CONFIDENTIAL?

Absolutely! We keep all applications confidential and do not use them for any other purpose than selecting interns for the Savvy Kickstarter Program.

DO YOU HAVE ANY LAST ADVICE BEFORE I SUBMIT MY MATERIAL?

1. Carefully follow instructions, you will have many other opportunities to express your creativity!
2. Don’t be late, any material submitted after set deadlines will be automatically disregarded.
3. Regularly check your inbox and spam folder, we don’t want you to miss a great news!
4. Be yourself and trust yourself.
5. Life changing opportunities such as this one are rare occurrences. Seize the opportunity to change your future.

WHAT IS THE CODE-NINE66 INCUBATOR PROGRAM?

The Code-Nine66 Incubator Program is a 3-month experience designed to help you launch your journey in game development. Built for aspiring entrepreneurs, the program combines hands-on training, expert mentorship, and business guidance to help you refine your project and craft a compelling investor-ready pitch. Our goal is simple: by the end of the program, you’ll be confident, prepared, and ready to present your studio to investors. Admission is competitive and merit-based. The top-performing teams from our annual Game Jam will be selected to join the incubator.

WHO RUNS THE CODE-NINE66 INCUBATOR PROGRAM?

This program is ran in partnership between CODE by MCIT, Exel by Merak Capital, and Savvy Games Group.

WHAT IS THE APPLICATION PROCESS?

To be considered, you’ll first need to apply for our Game Jam using the provided link. The Game Jam is the official selection stage for the Incubator, so missing it means missing your chance. Make sure you apply before the deadline.

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE GAME JAM AND THE PROGRAM?

This is a competitive program, so strong skills matter. There’s no strict limit on team size, but we recommend teams of 2 to 5 members for the best experience. Must be Saudi nationals. Last, candidates with entrepreneurial, game art, game design, and/of game programming background are preferred.

WHEN DOES THE GAME JAM START, AND WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT?

The Game Jam runs from September 17th  to 19th, held in person in Jeddah. Expect full-day participation across all three days.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE GAME JAM?

Bring your team, your creativity and your laptop.  Please note that accommodation, transportation, and meals are your responsibility.

WHEN WILL I KNOW IF I’VE BEEN SELECTED FOR THE INCUBATOR?

Final decisions will be shared by October 1^st  at the latest.

WHEN DOES THE INCUBATOR START, AND HOW IS IT STRUCTURED?

The incubator begins on October 11^th. You’ll be required to attend an in-person session in Jeddah the first week from October 11th to 15th. After that, the program continues online until January 7th. The last week of the program will be in held in person from January 10^th to 14^th.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Both the Game Jam and the incubator are completely free, and fully sponsored by the MCIT, Savvy Games Group and their partners.

DO YOU TAKE EQUITY IN MY STUDIO?

No. We don’t take any shares or compensation for the support we provide.

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES MY STUDIO GETS FUNDED AFTER ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM?

That depends on you. We’ll give you the tools, mentorship, and structure to succeed but execution is everything. Your progress will come down to your commitment, your team, and how well you build and present your idea.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER THE INCUBATOR?

Our goal is to set you up for success. Selected studios will have the opportunity to connect with leading investors, including Merak Capital and NEOM Gaming.

WHAT IS THE SAVVY MASTERCLASS PROGRAM, AND WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

The Savvy Masterclass is an exclusive speaker and workshop series hosted by Savvy Academy. It brings together global gaming and esports leaders—from top studios, academic institutions, and esports organizations—to inspire, educate, and empower local talent. It’s designed for rising developers, esports enthusiasts, students in Savvy programs, and anyone who’s passionate about the industry. Those attending online should be 18+.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE SESSIONS?

Each session features industry-leading speakers sharing behind-the-scenes insights, emerging trends, portfolio reviews, and/or career advice. You’ll get to engage through Q&A, workshops, and possibly hands-on experiences. The sessions are conducted in English and are suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

The Savvy Masterclass Program is 100% free! The program is fully sponsored by Savvy Academy, and in some cases in collaboration with our partners.

HOW CAN I JOIN? HOW CAN I REGISTER?

You can join in person at Savvy Games HQ in KAFD, Riyadh (limited seats), or via live stream on Microsoft Teams. Make sure to register in advance to secure your spot, whether attending in person, or online. Registration should be done from the form on this page and is mandatory for all attendees: https://savvyacademy.sa/savvy-masterclass/

HOW WILL I KNOW THAT MY SPOT IS SECURED?

A few days before the event, you will receive a confirmation email along with a voucher. This will include access details—either a digital pass for in-person attendance or a link for joining online via Microsoft Teams. Please note: due to limited seating at the venue, in-person applications are not guaranteed. If space runs out, you may be offered an online seat instead, even if you originally applied to attend in person.

ARE SESSIONS RECORDED?

Unless explicitly mentioned, no—sessions will not be recorded or shared afterward.