Our mission to improve gaming

There are roughly 8–12 million people who regularly play computer games in the UK. Perhaps you are one of them?

We created Gamers’ Voice to ensure our interests are heard in the media, the industry, and in politics. Essentially, we are a not-for-profit consumer advocacy group for gamer’s, similar in some ways to organisations such as CAMRA exist for real ale drinkers. We are structured as a company limited by guarantee, where our regular supporters get governance rights to appoint directors onto our board.

As gamers, we want the computer games industry to thrive—but we want it to thrive fairly.

We are opposed to exploitative practices designed by corporate executives to squeeze every last drop from our wallets. We know what feels unfair or what kills the fun of gaming when we encounter it.

We are in favour of a fun and inclusive gaming community where developers, publishers, gamers, content creators, and platforms thrive together. For this to happen, we need political policies and regulations that work for everyone.

So, what’s the problem?

As with any industry, there are practices that leave a bad taste in consumers’ mouths. For gamers, these unfair practices manifest in several ways. For example, they may include shutting down games prematurely; building monetisation systems at the expense of good design; placing excessive pressure on developers or restricting their creative freedom; releasing rushed, buggy games that don’t work at launch; overpromising features in marketing; limiting ownership or locking games into specific platforms; unfair bans affecting content creators; forcing players to hand over excessive personal data; in-game currency systems that feel deceptive; and aggressive attempts to copyright gameplay mechanics or target emulator and modding communities.

But it doesn’t stop there

Most people get to enjoy their pastime, and we generally respect what others choose to do. However, gamers face a unique challenge in the form of negative stereotypes—accusations that time is “wasted” playing games, or fearmongering about the supposed “harmful impacts” of gaming. This isn’t new. As far back as 1983, there was a famous parliamentary debate about the dangers of children playing Space Invaders.

The truth couldn’t be more different. Gaming is a safe and enjoyable activity that brings people together, builds connections, and offers a range of psychological and cognitive benefits.

Our positive vision for gaming

An inclusive gaming community where developers, publishers, gamers, content creators, and platforms collaborate and succeed together. We want to see positive representation of gaming as a culture, art form, and means of expression in the media. We support a thriving esports scene backed by UK local authorities, and government policies that make gaming accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We also want more social events and opportunities for people who love games to meet and share their passion.

Most of all, we want the joy of gaming to be celebrated and enjoyed by everyone.

If you share a love of games and want to work with us to build a thriving community and gaming community then get involved. We are your voice, and work in your interests!