Radical Forge, a Middlesbrough-based game development studio, has successfully secured £2.6 million in funding from NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance. This investment, part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II), will enable the company to expand its team, take on larger projects, and launch its highly anticipated game, Southfield, set to debut in early 2025.

A Rising Star in Game Development

Founded in 2017 by Teesside University graduates Bruce Slater and Freddie Babord, Radical Forge has rapidly established itself in the gaming industry. The studio currently employs around 70 people and has contributed to popular titles such as Gang Beasts, Sea of Thieves, Golf With Your Friends, and Zombie Army 4. In 2020, they released their first original title, Bright Paw, demonstrating their capacity for creating engaging intellectual properties.

The recent funding from NPIF II will facilitate the addition of 15 new jobs at Radical Forge, allowing the studio to enhance its workforce and improve its capabilities to manage larger and more complex projects. CEO Bruce Slater expressed his excitement about the funding, stating, “We are beyond happy to say that we’ve secured funding to help us build Radical Forge into the company we want it to be and bring everyone along with us on the journey.” Slater emphasized the importance of working with Mercia, which understands both the operational needs and the cultural values of the studio.

Strategic Growth and Market Opportunities

Chris McCourt from Mercia Ventures highlighted the vibrant culture at Radical Forge that has attracted and retained skilled developers. He noted that the current landscape in the gaming industry presents significant opportunities for the studio. With larger companies downsizing, Radical Forge is well-positioned to attract top talent and take on larger projects. The funding will support the studio's strategic expansion plans while reinforcing Middlesbrough's growing gaming sector.

The upcoming game, Southfield, represents Radical Forge’s next major project. This physics-driven farming sandbox game aims to provide players with innovative gameplay mechanics and a rich gaming experience. The development of Southfield aligns with Radical Forge's goal to diversify its portfolio and strengthen its competitive position in the gaming market.

Supporting Economic Growth in the North

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II plays a crucial role in driving sustainable economic growth across Northern England. With a total funding pool of £660 million, NPIF II offers equity investments of up to £5 million and loans ranging from £25,000 to £2 million to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative aims to remove barriers to investment and enhance access to finance for businesses that may struggle to secure traditional funding.

Radical Forge’s funding announcement underscores the growing recognition of the gaming industry as a vital contributor to economic development, especially in regions like Teesside. With this new investment, the studio is well-positioned to enhance its operations and make a meaningful impact on the local economy.

Advisors and Future Prospects

The guidance provided by Cerelo, a Leeds-based advisory firm specializing in the gaming sector, proved instrumental in the fundraising process. Advisors Mick Morris and Jonny Sharp expressed confidence in Radical Forge’s prospects, noting that the NPIF II funding will allow the studio to navigate financial challenges while focusing on its creative endeavors.

As Radical Forge embarks on this exciting new phase, the leadership team remains optimistic about the company’s future. The funding will enable the studio to expand its workforce and successfully launch Southfield, positioning Radical Forge for greater visibility and influence within the gaming industry.

In summary, Radical Forge's £2.6 million funding from NPIF II represents a significant step forward for the studio as it seeks to expand its operations and develop innovative new games. With a commitment to fostering a vibrant company culture and harnessing emerging opportunities within the gaming sector, Radical Forge is poised to make a lasting impact in the industry and contribute to the growth of the regional economy.