The Array to deliver Northern Territory’s first digital games and esports development centre

The Array, a business consortium led by Larrikin Interactive and Paspaley will deliver the Northern Territory’s first digital games and esports development centre.

The Array were selected as the winning design from 17 local, national and international entrants to the NT Government’s innovation challenge.

Located in Darwin’s Victoria Hotel, The Array will become the Territory’s centre of digital entertainment, education and innovation commercialisation.

Larrikin Interactive Dylan Bennett shared “this is a remarkable opportunity for this consortium of inspirational organisations to collectively take a leadership role in shaping the Territory’s digital landscape. With The Array, we’re blending creativity, technology and education to ignite innovation and create an international digital hub right here in the heart of Darwin.”

Director of Paspaley Nick Hanigan added “I am proud and excited to be supporter of the new not-for-profit venture, The Array. The mission to better connect Darwin’s young people to the broader world of ICT is of vital importance and comes at a crucial time of opportunity.

“In hand, we are nudging Darwin’s culture to be more youth and technology forward. I believe this is good for Darwin City and event better for the future prospects of our young minds growing up in the Territory.”

Their three key pillars are Learn, Make and Play:

Learn: deliver the Territory’s first 24/7/365 tech school of excellence.

Make: establish a base for the Territory’s brightest digital creatives.

Play: create an esport broadcast centre based in Darwin attracting international talent and streaming competitive matches directly into South East Asia.

It is estimated that globally, video games and esport revenue totalled US$215.6 billion in 2021. The Asia Pacific generated about half of the global revenue in 2021.

The global industry is forecast to grow at 8.5%p.a to US$323.5 billion by 2026.

Developing a Darwin based digital games and esport development centre establishes a launch pad for Territorians into one of the world’s fastest growing industries.

It also provides new pathways for Territory youth into socially and economically stronger futures.

Due to the NT’s proximity to the South East Asia market, the Territory is well placed for future investment in the digital games and esport industry leading to jobs and economic growth.

The design and fit-out of the Vic Hotel will commence in the coming weeks, with the centre scheduled to open in early 2024.

This development will not only activate Darwin city but reposition the iconic historical site, the Vic Hotel precinct towards a visionary high tech future facing Darwin.

To find out more about the Territory Innovation Challenges Program visit innovation.nt.gov.au/