Tracing the Evolution of Video Game Culture in Malaysia: A Sociohistorical Analysis

Recent times have witnessed a surge in the popularity of video gaming among Malaysians. In this article, we explore the evolution of video game culture in Malaysia from the 1980s to the early 2020s, illustrating its transformation from a casual pastime to a growing contributor to the nation’s digital economy. We aim to delineate the sociohistorical development of video gaming in Malaysia, examining its emergence and integration into everyday contemporary culture. We conducted an online search for relevant academic work, government and industry reports, media coverage, and digital platforms that specifically addressed the Malaysian context and more broadly the Southeast Asian context. Following this, we performed qualitative content analysis, initially to establish a chronological overview by decades, and thematically to identify the four key agents of the players, the audiences, the industry, and the society. Our findings highlight the dynamic interplay between these agents and detail the transformative impact of the recent COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on gaming practices. We conclude the article by reiterating the cultural significance of video games for Malaysians and identify opportunities for further research.