remote control productions Joins EFGAMP

Munich-based games production company remote control productions (rcp) has joined the European Federation of Video Game Archives, Museums, and Preservation Projects (EFGAMP). This is not the first time Hendrik Lesser has demonstrated his commitment to video game culture.

rcp’s motivation for joining EFGAMP is to strengthen pan-European efforts to support and protect video game culture. "In challenging times, standing together is more important than ever," says Hendrik Lesser, CEO of rcp, which is home to more than 15 game development studios. "We are thrilled to join forces with EFGAMP to preserve and promote awareness of the European games industry and its cultural heritage. rcp has been a steadfast partner in these efforts over the years—both independently and through our many studio heads contributing to national and international gaming associations. As we approach rcp’s 20th anniversary, we are now taking these efforts to an international level and are proud to deepen our political engagement to further support and safeguard video game culture."

EFGAMP welcomes Lesser’s involvement. "The fact that rcp, a network of development studios, is joining the association once again highlights that creators and developers have a strong interest in ensuring their works are well preserved and remain accessible for future generations—a challenge that both parties can best tackle together," says Andreas Lange, Managing Director of EFGAMP.

Lesser’s commitment, and thus rcp’s decision to join EFGAMP, comes as no surprise. Since founding the company nearly 20 years ago, Lesser has been actively involved in shaping the political and social discourse around games. He has held and holds leadership roles in major international organizations, such as serving as President of the European Game Developer Association (EGDF), as well as in smaller, more localized initiatives. Notably, he was the driving force behind the founding of the Videospielkultur (VSK) (video games culture) organisation in Munich, where he still serves as president today.

The VSK was established to promote social and academic engagement with video games as a cultural medium. Its founding in the mid-2000s played a key role in opening doors for the industry at a time when games were often viewed critically in political discussions. The association helped lay the foundation for many initiatives that, which led to an exchange between politics and the industry. After several years, this contributed ultimately to the introduction of state and federal funding for video games.