The video game industry is a powerhouse, raking in a staggering $250 billion annually, surpassing the film industry in revenue. Yet, Australia has historically lagged in domestic game development, a trend that could be shifting with the recent unveiling of Uppercut Games' latest title, Magicians: The Devil's Deal, at the Xbox Games Showcase 2026. This narrative-driven first-person shooter, set in the twisted world of Theatreland, casts players as Jacob Menteuro, a renowned magician trapped in Hell, tasked with mastering deadly magic, stealing powers from rival magicians, and breaking free. Developed by the Canberra-based studio Uppercut Games, the project has been a labor of love, with co-founder and director Ed Ormon expressing pride in the team's efforts. The game's reveal at the Xbox showcase is a significant milestone for the studio, which has been working on it for several years with partial funding from Screen Canberra, an organization that has traditionally supported TV and film projects but is now embracing the gaming industry. This shift in focus is evident in the growing success of Australian indie games, such as Hollow Knight: Silksong, which won Best Action/Adventure Game at the 2025 Gaming Awards, and Untitled Goose Game, which has sold over 3 million copies since 2019. With Magicians: The Devil's Deal generating buzz, there's a renewed enthusiasm for Canberra to become Australia's gaming capital, as suggested by Screen Canberra CEO Holly Trueman, who envisions the city as a hub for innovative game development, fostering a community of talented creators and driving the industry forward in the country.
