Lina Irawan
MIDDLESBROUGH, UK – [Insert Current Date] – The Game Republic New Horizons conference, poised to be a pivotal event for the global games industry, has today announced a formidable lineup for its highly anticipated Investor Zone, alongside further details of its comprehensive three-day program. With a focus on navigating the complex landscape of game financing, the conference is drawing industry heavyweights and a cohort of international investors to the Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough from October 14 to 16.
The latest revelations underscore the conference’s commitment to equipping developers with the knowledge and connections necessary to secure funding in an increasingly challenging economic climate. Headlining the Investor Zone are figures from Tencent, The Game Angels, Ansible, and Flick Games, promising a deep dive into various facets of investment, from corporate strategy to angel funding. This robust program is further bolstered by the strategic partnership with Games London, which will facilitate invaluable international investor engagement.
This announcement builds on the already impressive roster of speakers, including PlayStation creator Ken Kutaragi and Landfall Games’ Chief Business Officer Rebecca Lautner, cementing Game Republic New Horizons as an unmissable gathering for anyone invested in the future of interactive entertainment.
Navigating the Investment Labyrinth: A Deep Dive into the Investor Zone
The Investor Zone at Game Republic New Horizons is designed as a crucial nexus for developers seeking capital and strategic partnerships. Its carefully curated program reflects the diverse funding avenues available within the games industry, from large-scale corporate investment to early-stage angel backing.
A Fireside Chat with Tencent’s Teddy Keefe: Unlocking Global Opportunities
A highlight of the Investor Zone will be an exclusive fireside chat with Teddy Keefe, Business Development Director at Tencent. As one of the world’s largest and most influential technology and entertainment conglomerates, Tencent’s investment footprint spans continents, encompassing stakes in industry giants like Epic Games, Riot Games, and numerous burgeoning studios. Keefe’s participation offers an unparalleled opportunity for attendees to gain insight into the strategic thinking behind Tencent’s investment decisions.
The discussion is expected to cover a wide array of topics pertinent to studios looking to attract significant capital. This could include understanding the nuances of global market trends, identifying key performance indicators that attract major publishers, and navigating the complexities of international partnerships. Given Tencent’s dual role as both an investor and a publisher, Keefe’s perspective will be invaluable for studios aiming to scale up, access new markets, and benefit from the vast resources and expertise of a global powerhouse. His insights could shed light on everything from securing publishing deals for international distribution to understanding the long-term strategic vision that drives major corporate investments in the gaming sector. For many developers, attracting a partner like Tencent represents not just financial stability but also a stamp of global validation and access to unparalleled operational support.
Beyond the Pitch: Securing (and Surviving) Angel Investment
Another cornerstone of the Investor Zone program is a panel discussion titled "Beyond the Pitch: Securing (and Surviving) Angel Investment." This session promises a candid and practical exploration of angel investment, a vital funding source for many early-stage and independent studios. The panel brings together a wealth of experience, featuring Nick Button-Brown of The Game Angels, Tracy McGarrigan from Ansible, and Ian Masters of Flick Games.
- Nick Button-Brown (The Game Angels): Button-Brown represents The Game Angels, a network specifically focused on investing in promising games studios. His insights will be crucial for understanding what angel investors look for in a pitch, the common pitfalls developers encounter, and how to build a compelling case for early-stage funding. Angel investors often provide not just capital but also mentorship, industry connections, and strategic advice, making their involvement particularly impactful for nascent companies. Button-Brown is likely to elaborate on the due diligence process, valuation expectations, and the importance of a strong team and a clear vision.
- Tracy McGarrigan (Ansible): McGarrigan’s background with Ansible likely positions her as an expert in strategic consultancy and investment readiness. Her contribution to the panel will likely focus on preparing studios for investment, refining business plans, and understanding the legal and financial frameworks surrounding angel deals. "Surviving" angel investment often means managing investor expectations, maintaining control over creative vision, and ensuring that the terms of investment align with the studio’s long-term goals. McGarrigan can offer guidance on how to structure deals that protect the developer while providing adequate return for investors.
- Ian Masters (Flick Games): As a representative of Flick Games, Ian Masters brings the developer’s perspective to the table. Having likely navigated the journey of securing investment himself, he can offer first-hand accounts of the challenges and triumphs involved. His experience will be invaluable for understanding the practical implications of taking on angel investment, managing relationships with investors, and leveraging the funds effectively to achieve development milestones. Masters can speak to the real-world experiences of working with angel investors, the benefits beyond just capital, and how to maintain focus on game development amidst financial pressures.
Together, this panel offers a holistic view of angel investment, providing actionable advice that extends far beyond merely crafting a compelling pitch deck. It delves into the ongoing relationship, the responsibilities, and the strategic decisions required to make angel investment a success story.
Beyond Angels: Broadening the Funding Horizon
In addition to these headline sessions, the Investor Zone will feature critical presentations from other key players in the funding ecosystem. Sessions with Xbox will focus on bringing games to its platform, covering topics such as the ID@Xbox program, the benefits of Game Pass, technical certification processes, and marketing support available to independent developers. This is vital for studios looking to leverage platform partnerships for broader reach and revenue generation.
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Innovate UK will also host sessions, highlighting non-dilutive funding opportunities. The BFI offers cultural funding and tax reliefs for games that demonstrate cultural significance, while Innovate UK provides grants for innovation and R&D in the creative industries. These sessions are crucial for studios seeking alternative funding models that do not require giving up equity. Furthermore, the presence of other publishers and VC investors throughout the conference will create numerous networking opportunities, allowing developers to engage directly with potential funders across various stages of investment.
Games London’s Strategic Role: Fostering International Connections
Adding another layer of international gravitas, Games London will play a significant role at the Game Republic New Horizons conference. In addition to hosting a number of its own sessions, Games London will be bringing a select cohort of international games investors to the show on October 15. This initiative is a testament to Games London’s mission to promote the UK’s games industry on a global stage and attract foreign direct investment.
The presence of international investors, facilitated by Games London, is a game-changer for many UK-based studios. It provides direct access to capital sources that might otherwise be out of reach, broadens market perspectives, and fosters cross-border collaborations. For a region like the North East, which is rapidly establishing itself as a creative tech hub, this influx of international interest can be transformative, helping to cultivate a more robust and globally connected ecosystem. Games London’s involvement underscores the national significance of the Game Republic New Horizons conference and its role in connecting regional talent with global opportunities.
Official Endorsement: A Crucial Time for Finance
Jamie Sefton, Managing Director of Game Republic, emphasized the critical importance of the Investor Zone and the broader conference theme. "We’re assembling the best collection of investors and funders at the Investor Zone at GR New Horizons, along with our partner Games London," Sefton stated. "This is a crucial time for the games industry where finance is front and centre for studios and so ensuring we have world-class investors and funders of games in one place is vital to help secure games companies’ future projects."
Sefton’s remarks highlight the current economic realities faced by game developers worldwide. Rising development costs, increased competition, and a more cautious investment landscape necessitate a proactive approach to securing funding. The conference aims to be a beacon of guidance and opportunity, providing a direct conduit between innovative studios and those with the capital and expertise to bring their visions to fruition. The focus on world-class investors is not merely about attracting big names, but about ensuring that the advice and opportunities presented are relevant, strategic, and capable of making a tangible difference to the future of games companies.
The Broader Chronology: A Conference of Visionaries and Innovators
The latest Investor Zone announcements further enrich an already impressive program that promises to span the breadth of game development and industry trends. The Game Republic New Horizons conference, taking place from October 14 to 16, has already generated significant buzz with its keynote speaker lineup.
Ken Kutaragi: The Father of PlayStation
Earlier announcements confirmed that Ken Kutaragi, revered as the "Father of PlayStation," will deliver a keynote address at the show. Kutaragi’s pioneering work in conceiving and launching the PlayStation console revolutionized the gaming industry, transforming it into a mainstream entertainment juggernaut. His insights into hardware innovation, platform strategy, and the evolution of interactive entertainment will offer a historical perspective coupled with forward-looking vision. Developers and industry professionals will undoubtedly glean valuable lessons from his journey, understanding the intricate balance between technological advancement, market strategy, and consumer appeal that defines true innovation. His presence underscores the conference’s ambition to connect past triumphs with future possibilities.
Rebecca Lautner (Landfall Games) and GamesIndustry.biz
Also speaking on stage will be Rebecca Lautner, Chief Business Officer at Landfall Games, known for indie hits like Totally Accurate Battle Simulator and the recent viral sensation Content Warning. Lautner will engage in a conversation with GamesIndustry.biz Features Editor Lewis Packwood. This session promises a deep dive into the business strategies behind Landfall’s success, particularly their approach to indie publishing, community engagement, and navigating the often-unpredictable world of viral game launches. The interview format, facilitated by Packwood, is expected to provide an intimate and detailed account of how a mid-sized indie studio achieves global recognition and sustainable growth in a competitive market. Her insights will be invaluable for studios aiming to replicate Landfall’s blend of creativity and commercial acumen.
These keynote speakers, combined with the robust Investor Zone, paint a picture of a conference that is both reflective of the industry’s rich history and forward-looking in its pursuit of future innovation and growth.
Supporting Data: The UK Games Industry and the Need for Investment
The UK games industry is a powerhouse, contributing significantly to the national economy and boasting a vibrant ecosystem of developers, publishers, and service providers. According to recent reports, the sector continues to grow, driven by strong domestic talent and increasing global demand for interactive content. However, this growth comes with its own set of challenges, particularly concerning access to finance.
Developing a modern video game can cost millions, if not tens of millions, of pounds, and securing this capital is often the biggest hurdle for independent studios. Traditional publishing deals are becoming more selective, and while venture capital and angel investment are growing, the landscape remains complex and competitive. Events like Game Republic New Horizons serve a critical function by demystifying the investment process, providing direct access to funders, and offering practical advice on how to structure deals and manage investor relationships.
The North East of England, where Middlesbrough is located, is an emerging hub for digital and creative industries. Initiatives like Game Republic and conferences such as New Horizons are vital in fostering this regional growth, attracting talent, and demonstrating the area’s potential as a center for game development. By bringing international investors to Middlesbrough, the conference not only benefits local studios but also elevates the region’s profile on the global stage, attracting further investment and talent.
Furthermore, the involvement of organizations like the BFI and Innovate UK highlights the diverse funding ecosystem available in the UK. Government grants and cultural funding provide essential non-dilutive capital, allowing studios to retain full ownership and creative control, which is particularly appealing for projects with artistic merit or those exploring innovative technologies. Understanding these various funding streams, and how to access them, is paramount for sustainable growth in the industry.
Implications: Shaping the Future of Game Development and Regional Growth
The Game Republic New Horizons conference, with its comprehensive focus on investment, talent, and innovation, carries significant implications for the UK games industry and beyond.
Empowering Developers: By providing direct access to a diverse array of investors—from corporate giants like Tencent to angel networks and public funding bodies—the conference directly empowers developers. It equips them with the knowledge, networks, and practical strategies needed to secure the funding vital for their projects. This is particularly crucial for independent and emerging studios, who often struggle to gain visibility and make connections with potential funders. The sessions on "surviving" angel investment, for instance, go beyond mere pitching, addressing the long-term strategic and relational aspects of funding partnerships.
Strengthening the UK’s Global Position: The partnership with Games London and the presence of international investors reinforce the UK’s reputation as a leading hub for game development. Attracting foreign capital and fostering global collaborations are key to maintaining this competitive edge. Events like this help to showcase the depth of talent and innovation present in the UK, encouraging further investment and partnerships that can lead to more ambitious and globally successful titles.
Regional Development and Economic Impact: Hosting a conference of this caliber in Middlesbrough significantly boosts the local and regional economy. It draws attendees from across the UK and internationally, generating revenue for local businesses. More importantly, it highlights the North East as a burgeoning center for creative tech, potentially attracting new studios, retaining local talent, and fostering a more robust regional ecosystem. This aligns with broader national strategies to decentralize economic growth and build thriving tech hubs outside of traditional centers like London.
Shaping Future Funding Trends: The discussions and insights shared at the Investor Zone will likely reflect and influence future trends in game funding. As the industry evolves with new technologies like AI, cloud gaming, and VR/AR, the investment landscape will also adapt. The presence of varied investors and experts means attendees will gain a clearer picture of what kind of projects are attracting capital, what business models are succeeding, and how to position their studios for future growth.
In conclusion, Game Republic New Horizons is set to be more than just a conference; it is a vital platform for connecting vision with capital, nurturing talent, and shaping the strategic direction of the games industry. As Jamie Sefton aptly puts it, finance is "front and centre," and this event is poised to be instrumental in securing the future projects that will define the next generation of interactive entertainment. The convergence of industry legends, leading investors, and innovative developers in Middlesbrough marks a significant moment for the UK games sector, promising a wealth of opportunities and insights for all who attend.
Evan Lee Salim
Nana Muazin
