WASHINGTON — The trade group representing the US video game industry has hired Curley Company to serve as its public affairs agency partner.

The Entertainment Software Association named Curley its public affairs agency of record following a competitive review.

Curley is charged with showcasing the video game industry’s positive impact on people, culture and the economy. Areas of focus will include workforce and education, digital wellness, consumer protection, marketplace access and operations, and foundational issues such as protecting innovation and defending the freedom of expression.

Curley’s efforts will span federal, state and, at times, global public policy. The partnership also includes strategic communications support for the ESA Foundation.

The addition of a public affairs firm bolsters ESA’s larger communications strategy. The organization has worked with Ketchum on consumer campaigns. 

The move comes amid continued growth for the video game industry. In 2021, US consumers spent $60.4 billion on video games, an 8% increase over 2021, according to the ESA.

“The growth and impact of the video game industry over the past year underscores the sustained trends we have seen for several years, namely that people of all ages and demographics are playing video games for joy, connection, competition, education and mental stimulation as well as much-needed stress relief,” ESA President and CEO Stanley Pierre-Louis said. “We look forward to working with the Curley Company to articulate the many ways the video game industry drives a dynamic and growing entertainment ecosystem that not only provides engaging interactive content, but also spurs local economic growth through live esports competitions, educational opportunities and high-wage careers.”