Turkey's Digital Games Federation Has Finally Been Founded.

Despite important steps such as game design and development efforts that have rapidly advanced over the past few years and participation in international competitions, there was a lack of a structure regulating this growing sector. However, with an announcement made in recent days, this gap has been closed. Turkey's Digital Games Federation (TUDOF) has finally been established! General Director of Youth and Sports (GSGM) Yunus Akgül announced last Sunday at a press breakfast held at Feriye that the Turkey Digital Games Federation has been established. In his statement, Akgül indicated that the federation will focus on computer games and used the following expressions: "This federation will be oriented toward computer games. Many large tournaments are held around the world. We will also operate in this field, select our national teams, make regulations regarding internet cafes, examine the categories of games coming to Turkey and implement regulations regarding Playstation games. In short, the federation will create a framework for all games played through digital tools." The establishment of the federation will contribute to the sector in many aspects, not only in terms of game competitions and development efforts. This development in the gaming world will both shape the social effects of digital games in a positive direction and contribute to the economy by structuring regulations regarding the sector. Application and Background of Developments The management of computer games was transferred to the General Directorate of Youth and Sports of the Ministry of Youth and Sports approximately four years ago. This change made it mandatory for applications to be made to this institution as well. The rapid pace of applications in this field helped developments in the sector take shape more quickly. The number of players interested in digital games in Turkey is estimated to exceed 10 million. With this large player base, it is of great importance for digital games to be regulated in a way appropriate to our cultural structure and for games that will create positive effects on our youth to be played. In addition, considering the economic size of the gaming sector, it is also clear that Turkey needs to invest more in this area. In particular, instead of transferring millions of dollars to foreign games, growing Turkey's own gaming sector and offering an alternative to foreign gaming companies stands out as an important strategy. Important steps have begun to be taken to increase the strength of the Turkish gaming industry and have a greater say worldwide. Türk Telekom's acquisition of Sobee gaming company and projects like ATOM established at METU are concrete examples of Turkey's interest and investments in the gaming sector. These steps ensure that the digital game industry establishes a strong place not only as a consumer but also as a producer. Social and Economic Contributions of Digital Games The potential effects of digital games on young people and the family structure are an issue that should be considered both socially and economically. Making these games compatible with the values of society and supervising them can help reduce possible negative effects. The importance of establishing the Turkey Digital Games Federation comes into play here. This federation will shape digital games not only as an entertainment tool but also as a tool that contributes to the personal development of young people and supports economic growth. With the establishment of the federation, regulations regarding the gaming sector will also be made. Very important steps will be taken on issues such as the rating of games, the informing of internet cafes and participation in national-international competitions. TUDOF Establishment Process and Participants The establishment process of the Turkey Digital Games Federation (TUDOF) was shaped by the application made in 2010 and many subsequent meetings and workshops. The establishment of TUDOF took place with the contributions of many important names from the private sector and public administration. Among the names who made the application were important figures such as Sobee General Manager Mevlüt Dinç, METU-TSK Modsimmer Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Veysi İşler, Social Entrepreneur Erdem Çelik, turk.internet.com General Manager Füsun Nebil and Mikro Ödeme General Manager Alper Akcan. TUDOF will collaborate with players and gaming communities, while also contributing to the development of the sector together with game developers and publishers. However, in this process, attention will also be paid to society and family values, and these sensitivities will be considered at every step. The Future and Importance of the Federation The federation will supervise the publication of digital games and will also try to prevent unconscious use in this field by making regulations regarding internet cafes. Age-appropriate rating of games and participation in local and international tournaments will be among the federation's main duties. Following all these developments, the federation's management elections will begin from August 3. This process is of great importance for the future of Turkey in the gaming world. This federation, which will ensure that digital games are used not only as entertainment but also as a culture, industry and educational tool, will fill many gaps in the sector. In conclusion, the establishment of the Turkey Digital Games Federation is a very exciting development for the future of the digital game sector. This step can lead to important changes not only in the gaming world but also in the Turkish economy and cultural structure.