Get To Know the Biggest Thai Game Publisher and the Games They Develop
With revenues amounting to $1.1 billion, Thailand is considered by Newzoo as 1If you are curious about major Thai game publishers, you can find reviews in this article. Thailand’s gaming market has grown tremendously and can currently be included in one of the most outstanding positions in Southeast Asia.
9th place in global game industry earnings, hence being the region's second most important gaming market after Indonesia. Supportive government initiatives like the "Thai Gaming Industry on the Global Stage" program, driven by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency, or DEPA, will enable local publishers and developers in Thailand to take on the global arena.
So, what are the standout game publishers in Thailand and the successful games they publish?
1. Asphere Innovations, One of the Leading Thai Game Publishers
- Head Office: Bangkapi District, Bangkok, Thailand
- Established: 2001
Overview
Asphere Innovations, previously known as Asiasoft, is a Thailand-based big game publisher, founded in 2001. In recent years, it spread its operation to almost all Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia. The core business of Asphere includes publishing massively multiplayer online games, casual games, advanced RPGs, FPS, and MOBA.
Having operated in the industry for over 20 years, Asphere Innovations managed to publish over 160 games and grew as one of the most experienced and trustworthy publishers in the region. The ability to develop and publish large-scale online games led to the development of a solid gaming ecosystem across Southeast Asia.
Popular Games They Published
- Ragnarok Online: A phenomenal and booming MMORPG due to its community-based gameplay and character development features that allow gamers to choose attribute development based on their needs or according to their personal preferences.
- PangYa: A casual, multiplayer online golf game with anime-style graphics. The mobile version has the same quality as the PC version of PangYa. Plus, this game presents a Real-Time PvP feature, so that gamers will be able to compete and test their skills with friends or players from other countries.
- AIKA Online: This game uses 3D-MMORPG technology, which is a massively multiplayer online RPG game with very smooth and attractive 3D graphics. Another characteristic that deserves praise is the fast and exciting combat. It's no wonder that a selective Thai game publisher like Asphere Innovations dares to invest in this high-quality game. In Indonesia, this game was successfully selected as Best Newcomer and Editor's Choice in 2012.
2. Kiragames, a Thai Indie Game Publisher Specialist in Puzzle Games
- Head Office: Nakhon Ratchasima and Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Established: 2009
Overview
Kiragames is a Thai game publisher that focuses on developing, designing, and publishing puzzle games for iOS and Android platforms. Although it started as an indie studio, the company has grown rapidly and is now known as the largest game publisher by number of downloads in Thailand.
Not only successful in the local market, Kiragames has also become one of the fourth largest game publishers in Southeast Asia, thanks to their focus on puzzle games that are easy to access but have addictive gameplay.
Popular Game They Published
One of the most famous titles from Kiragames is Unblock Me, a very simple and addictive 2D puzzle game. Though this game is normally in 2D, because of the outlook and designs of the board and stages, it seems to be in 3D. The graphics are smooth and well-rendered, even on larger screens, like a 10-inch tablet. The soft, clear colors and precise object design ensure that players have a comfortable and enjoyable visual experience, reducing eye strain during extended gameplay.
Unblock Me was first launched for Android on June 17, 2009, and immediately became a hit in the mobile gaming world. Its success is reflected in the high rating of 4.5/5 on Google Play, added to the impressive total of more than 50 million downloads.
3. Garena Thailand, One of the Most Popular Thai Game Publisher
- Branch Office in Thailand: Khet Dindaeng, Bangkok
- Established: 2009
Overview
Garena is a game developer and publisher from Singapore, but also one of the major gaming industry players in Southeast Asia, including Thailand. The Thai publisher of this game is very well-acknowledged because of the tremendous contribution that they have given to esports, not to mention their strategic focus on high-quality content.
Over the years, it has earned quite a formidable reputation for organizing world-class esport tournaments, including the Free Fire World Series 2023 due in Thailand and Free Fire Pro League Thailand Season 6. These events justify the determination of Garena Thailand in its intent of delivering exciting and competitive gaming experiences to players and viewers alike.
One of Garena Thailand's standout strategies is its intense focus on content. This approach involves collaborating with various industries, including sports, music, and film, to enhance the gaming experience. By integrating popular cultural elements and partnering with well-known figures and brands, Garena Thailand creates engaging and immersive content that resonates with a broad audience. This strategy not only elevates the gaming experience but also helps in attracting new players and maintaining a strong community.
Popular Games They Published
- Free Fire MAX: Another version of Free Fire that is more immersive. The appearance of objects and characters has smoother and sharper textures, animation effects look better, in-game map effects are improved, and there is a new feature called Craftland that allows each player to create their imagination in building a map or battle arena. This new version of Free Fire has been downloaded more than 500 million times, with a high rating of 4.4 on Play Store.
- Arena of Valor (AOV): This MOBA genre game doesn’t hesitate to include various local elements from various countries, including Thailand, to attract players' hearts. Not to mention the graphics are very detailed with realistic particles, the gameplay is dynamic, and there are lots of interesting features.
4. 7 Raven Studios, a Thai Video Game Publisher and Developer
Head Office: Phuket, Thailand Established: 2006
Overview
7 Raven Studios is a Thai game publisher that is considered a good choice for those developers who wish to publish their games beyond iOS and Android. Since 2017, it has been developing and publishing games on Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. Their experience encompasses all sorts of game genres: action, adventure, puzzle, RPG, etc.
Popular Games They Published
Escape String: A 2D puzzle game with a unique perspective-based approach. This game is perfect for players seeking a relaxing puzzle experience. Its gameplay is not overly dynamic, allowing players to enjoy a more thoughtful pace.
Treasures of The Roman Empire: A strategy-adventure game that is suitable for players of all ages. With over 31 levels packed with humor and engaging content, this title provides an entertaining experience for casual and dedicated gamers alike. The combination of lighthearted fun and challenging gameplay makes it a hit for those who enjoy strategic adventures.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Thai game publishers have made a remarkable impact on the global gaming industry, contributing significantly to Southeast Asia's growth as a gaming hub. From established names like Asphere Innovations to creative forces like Kiragames, Thai publishers have shown versatility and innovation in their game offerings. Are you developing an exciting game and looking to expand your reach into Thailand's thriving gaming market? Before submitting your game to a Thai game publisher, make sure it's fully localized for the audience. Digital-Trans Asia is here to help you perfectly adapt your game, from language to player preferences in Thailand. With our localization services, you can ensure your game is ready to compete in this highly competitive market and meet the expectations of Thai gamers.