Radical Forge, a games studio based in Middlesbrough, has recently secured £2.6m in investment from NPIF II.
- The funding will support the creation of 15 new jobs, contributing to the studio’s expansion.
- Radical Forge plans to use this investment to undertake larger projects and launch its game, Southfield, next year.
- The studio, founded by former Teesside University students, already employs around 70 staff members.
- Mercia Ventures, the manager of NPIF II, believes this investment will attract top talent to Radical Forge.
Radical Forge, a notable games studio situated in Middlesbrough, has managed to secure a significant investment of £2.6 million from NPIF II, managed by Mercia Ventures. This funding is a crucial step for Radical Forge, enabling them to create 15 new positions within the company. The investment is expected to facilitate larger contracts and the launch of their upcoming game, ‘Southfield’, slated for release in the coming year.
The studio was established in 2017 by Bruce Slater and Freddie Babord, both graduates from Teesside University. Since its inception, Radical Forge has grown to employ around 70 individuals, working on prominent games like ‘Gang Beasts’, ‘Sea of Thieves’, and ‘Zombie Army 4’. The studio prides itself on its innovative culture and ability to attract skilled developers.
Radical Forge’s publishing division has seen considerable success, with ‘Bright Paw’ being named Best Puzzle Game at the NYX Game Awards. Their latest development, ‘Southfield’, presents a novel gaming experience set on a fantasy island, revolving around farming and machinery experimentation, aimed to captivate a diverse player base.
Such strategic expansions are vital as they aim to strengthen Middlesbrough’s burgeoning gaming sector. Mercia Ventures’ Chris McCourt highlighted the potential of Radical Forge to tap into the current industry dynamics, where larger firms are downsizing, thus offering Radical Forge the chance to absorb talented individuals into their team.
The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II) plays a strategic role across Northern England by providing financial support to small and medium enterprises. This initiative aims to drive economic growth by facilitating access to funding, especially in the Yorkshire and Humber regions, thereby fostering local businesses’ growth and innovation.
This strategic funding underscores Radical Forge’s commitment to growth and innovation within Middlesbrough’s gaming industry.
