In the recent history, the video game industry has become one of the fastest-growing industries in terms of economic growth, potential for technological innovations, and cultural influence. The research conducted in this paper examines the incentives driving the development of the video game industry in selected countries of the European Union (EU), and presents their characteristics, challenges and benefits. The comparative analysis of French, Finnsih and Polish examples in the context of Croatia, each representing different approaches and levels of investment in this industry, provides critical insights. While France stands out with its rich heritage in game development and financial incentives supported by the government, Finland is known for its successful game development ecosystem, driven by private and public sector initiatives. In contrast, Poland has quickly grown into a powerful player in the European gaming landscape, mainly thanks to its talented workforce and a few hit titles that have gained international recognition. This paper researches the current state of the video game industry in Croatia. Participants highlighted the need for a relationship between the academic sector and the industry, suggesting potential strategies for growth. The importance of quality and better education meeting the needs of the gaming industry was a recurring theme, reflecting the growing attitude in the EU countries mentioned above. The video game industry in Europe is diverse, and each country has its own challenges and opportunities. However, as the success stories from the countries studied show, a combination of public-private partnerships, higher education and the promotion of an environment that supports innovation can enable a country to play a vital role in this dynamic industry.