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If there’s one tech category where the UK has consistently punched way above it’s weight it’s games development. Since spectrum days and the holy BBC Computer (yes, we’re talking Elite!) the UK games studios in this list have over contributed to the games industry where it is a net exporter to the rest of the world.
And there’s a reason we’ve hoodwinked a Grand Theft Auto shot into our featured image and that’s because the Rockstar is the studio that created GTA is British (Scottish, to be precise…). So let’s now take a look at the hottest games studios in the UK according to the UKIE which revealed the most successful video gaming experiences released in the UK to-date.
Gaming Companies In UK | Video Game Companies | UK Biggest UK Game Developers
Rockstar North – uk game developers leader
Most Successful UK Game: GTA V
Also Famous For: Red Dead Redemption II
Traveller’s Tales (“TT”)
Most Successful UK Game: LEGO Batman
Also Famous For: LEGO Indiana Jones, LEGO Star Wars, LEGO Harry Potter
Codemasters
Most Successful UK Game: Colin McRae Rally (PS1, PC)
Also Famous For: TOCA, Micro Machines, Brian Lara
Sony Studios (i.e. PlayStation London)
Most Successful UK Boxed Game: The Getaway
Also Famous For: EyeToy, F1, Wipeout
Sports Interactive
Most Successful UK Boxed Game: Football Manager 2007
Also Famous For: Championship Manager
Biggest UK Games Studios & uk game developers
The UK has a long history of making world class gaming experiences. With the global audience estimated between 2.2 and 2.6 billion people and the global software market expected to grow from $137.9 billion in 2018 to an estimated $180.1 billion by the end of 2021, the opportunities for the UK games industry have never been greater.
Source – UKIE
Core Design
Most Successful UK Game: Tomb Raider 2
Also Famous For: Tomb Raider
Eurocom Entertainment
Most Successful UK Game: James Bond 007: Nightfire
Also Famous For: GoldenEye 007: Reloaded, Spyro: A Hero’s Tale, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, 007: The World Is Not Enough
Criterion Games
Most Successful UK Boxed Game: Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit
Also Famous For: Burnout
Rare
Most Successful UK Boxed Game: GoldenEye (N64) and Kinect Sports (360)
Also Famous For: Perfect Dark, Banjo Kazooie, Donkey Kong Country
Team17
Most Successful UK Boxed Game: Worms
Also Famous For: Overcooked
Gaming companies in uk
4. Bossa Studios
Bossa make creative, inclusive games like I am Fish, I am Bread, Surgeon Simulator 2, etc. Talking one of their leading games is Surgeon Simulator 2.
Tag Games
Headed up by the ever popular Paul Farley Tag is going from strength to strength.
Outplay
Outplay Entertainment have Mystery Match Village, Crafty Candy Blast, Words Together, and Solitaire Together are some of their popular games.
Gaming companies in uk
Thanks to GfK and UKIE for the data from 1995 – 2018. The list is based on unit sales of physical boxed games and does not include digital. List originally published by Games Industry Biz
UK Games Studios UK #1 Best UK Gaming Studios UK Guide
Biggest UK Game Developers: Top Companies Leading the Industry
The UK has a rich history of video game development, with some of the biggest names in the industry hailing from the country. From classic titles like Grand Theft Auto to modern hits like F1 2021, UK game developers have been responsible for some of the most successful games in history.
The landscape of UK game development has evolved significantly over the years. While physical game sales were the primary metric for success in the past, the rise of digital distribution and mobile gaming has changed the game. Today, UK game developers are creating games for a variety of platforms and consoles, from PC and console to mobile and VR.
Despite the changing landscape, major UK game developers continue to dominate the industry. With studios like Rockstar North, Codemasters, and Frontier Developments leading the way, the UK remains a major player in the world of video game development. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the biggest UK game developers and the iconic titles they’ve created, as well as explore the future of UK game development.
Key Takeaways
- The UK has a rich history of video game development, with some of the biggest names in the industry hailing from the country.
- The landscape of UK game development has evolved significantly over the years, with digital distribution and mobile gaming changing the game.
- Despite the changing landscape, major UK game developers continue to dominate the industry, with studios like Rockstar North, Codemasters, and Frontier Developments leading the way.
The Landscape of UK Game Development
The UK has a thriving game development industry that has been growing for over 30 years. The industry has become an important part of the entertainment industry and the digital economy. The UK video games industry is the largest in Europe, with a wide range of game developers creating games for all platforms, including consoles, PC, mobile, and VR.
The trade body for the UK games industry, Ukie, represents over 500 companies. Ukie’s mission is to support, grow and promote the UK games and interactive entertainment industry. They provide a range of services to help game developers, including networking events, training, and lobbying the government on issues that affect the industry.
The UK game development industry has produced some of the most successful and well-known games in the world, including Grand Theft Auto, Minecraft, and Fable. These games have not only been successful commercially but have also helped to establish the UK as a hub for game development.
The industry is experiencing an entrepreneurial boom, with growth in the number of companies of 22 per cent year on year. In 2014, there were 1,902 games companies active in the UK, contributing as much as £1.7 billion to the economy. The industry has continued to grow since then, with more and more companies entering the market.
The UK government has recognized the importance of the game development industry and has introduced initiatives to support its growth. One of these initiatives is the Video Games Tax Relief (VGTR), which was introduced in 2014. VGTR provides tax relief to game developers who produce games that are culturally British or European. Since VGTR was introduced, companies have made claims for 1,940 games, with UK expenditure of £5.1 billion. In the year ending March 2022, £197 million of VGTR was paid in response to 330 claims, representing 580 games.
Overall, the UK game development industry is a vibrant and growing part of the entertainment and digital economy. With the support of the government and trade bodies like Ukie, the industry is set to continue to grow and produce some of the most innovative and exciting games in the world.
Major UK Game Developers
The UK has a thriving video game industry, with many major game developers headquartered in the country. Here are some of the most notable UK game developers:
Rockstar North
Rockstar North is one of the most successful UK game developers and is best known for the Grand Theft Auto series. The company was founded in 1988 and has since produced a number of critically acclaimed games. Their most successful game is Grand Theft Auto V, which has sold over 130 million copies worldwide.
Codemasters
Codemasters is a British video game developer and publisher that was founded in 1986. They are known for producing racing games such as the Dirt and F1 series. Their most successful game is the F1 series, which has sold over 10 million copies worldwide.
Sports Interactive
Sports Interactive is a UK-based video game developer that specializes in sports simulation games. They are best known for the Football Manager series, which has sold over 33 million copies worldwide.
Team17
Team17 is a British video game developer and publisher that was founded in 1990. They are known for producing the Worms series, which has sold over 70 million copies worldwide.
Creative Assembly
Creative Assembly is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1987. They are best known for producing the Total War series, which has sold over 25 million copies worldwide.
Core Design
Core Design was a British video game developer that was founded in 1988. They are best known for producing the Tomb Raider series, which has sold over 81 million copies worldwide.
Rare
Rare is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1985. They are best known for producing the Donkey Kong Country and Banjo-Kazooie series.
Eurocom Entertainment
Eurocom Entertainment was a British video game developer that was founded in 1988. They are best known for producing the James Bond 007 series.
Criterion Games
Criterion Games is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1993. They are best known for producing the Burnout series, which has sold over 14 million copies worldwide.
Ubisoft Reflections
Ubisoft Reflections is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1984. They are best known for producing the Driver series.
Sumo Digital
Sumo Digital is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 2003. They are best known for producing the Sonic & All-Stars Racing series.
Bullfrog
Bullfrog was a British video game developer that was founded in 1987. They are best known for producing the Populous and Theme Park series.
Outplay Entertainment
Outplay Entertainment is a UK-based video game developer and publisher that was founded in 2010. They are best known for producing the Angry Birds POP! series.
Rebellion
Rebellion is a UK-based video game developer and publisher that was founded in 1992. They are best known for producing the Sniper Elite series.
4J Studios
4J Studios is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 2005. They are best known for producing the console editions of Minecraft.
EA Bright Light
EA Bright Light was a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1995. They are best known for producing the Harry Potter series.
Bizarre Creations
Bizarre Creations was a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1994. They are best known for producing the Project Gotham Racing series.
Climax
Climax is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1988. They are best known for producing the MotoGP series.
Rocksteady
Rocksteady is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 2004. They are best known for producing the Batman: Arkham series.
Evolution Studios
Evolution Studios was a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 1999. They are best known for producing the MotorStorm series.
Playground Games
Playground Games is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 2010. They are best known for producing the Forza Horizon series.
Bossa Studios
Bossa Studios is a UK-based video game developer that was founded in 2010. They are best known for producing the Surgeon Simulator series.
Iconic UK Game Titles
The UK has been home to some of the most iconic games in the industry. Here are some of the most memorable titles that have been developed in the UK.
Grand Theft Auto
Developed by Rockstar North, the Grand Theft Auto series has been a massive success since its first release in 1997. The game has been praised for its open-world gameplay, unique storyline, and immersive graphics. The latest release, Grand Theft Auto V, has sold over 130 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling games of all time.
Tomb Raider
Tomb Raider is a classic adventure game that was first released in 1996. Developed by Core Design, the game features Lara Croft, a skilled adventurer who travels the world in search of ancient artifacts. The game has been praised for its engaging storyline, challenging gameplay, and stunning graphics. Tomb Raider has since become a franchise, with several sequels and adaptations.
Football Manager
Football Manager is a sports simulation game that was first released in 1992. Developed by Sports Interactive, the game allows players to manage their own football team, making decisions about tactics, transfers, and team selection. The game has been praised for its depth and realism, and has become a staple for football fans worldwide.
Goldeneye
Goldeneye is a first-person shooter game that was first released in 1997. Developed by Rare, the game is based on the James Bond film of the same name. The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes, and has been praised for its innovative gameplay and engaging storyline.
Championship Manager
Championship Manager is a football management simulation game that was first released in 1992. Developed by Sports Interactive, the game allows players to manage their own football team, making decisions about tactics, transfers, and team selection. The game has been praised for its depth and realism, and has become a staple for football fans worldwide.
Harry Potter Games
The Harry Potter games are a series of action-adventure games that are based on the Harry Potter book series. Developed by EA Bright Light and Traveller’s Tales, the games allow players to explore Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, casting spells and battling enemies. The games have been praised for their immersive graphics and engaging gameplay.
Lego Batman
Lego Batman is an action-adventure game that was first released in 2008. Developed by Traveller’s Tales, the game allows players to control Batman and Robin in a Lego-themed Gotham City. The game has been praised for its family-friendly gameplay and engaging storyline.
The Getaway
The Getaway is an action-adventure game that was first released in 2002. Developed by Team Soho, the game is set in a realistic recreation of London. The game has been praised for its immersive gameplay and engaging storyline.
Tomb Raider 2
Tomb Raider 2 is the sequel to the classic adventure game, Tomb Raider. Developed by Core Design, the game features Lara Croft, a skilled adventurer who travels the world in search of ancient artifacts. The game has been praised for its engaging storyline, challenging gameplay, and stunning graphics.
Driver
Driver is a driving game that was first released in 1999. Developed by Reflections Interactive, the game allows players to control a getaway driver in a series of missions. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay and engaging storyline.
Colin McRae Rally
Colin McRae Rally is a racing game that was first released in 1998. Developed by Codemasters, the game allows players to compete in a series of rally races. The game has been praised for its realistic physics and engaging gameplay.
Total War Series
The Total War series is a strategy game that was first released in 2000. Developed by Creative Assembly, the game allows players to control armies in a series of historical battles. The game has been praised for its depth and realism, and has become a staple for strategy fans worldwide.
Goldeneye 007: Reloaded
Goldeneye 007: Reloaded is a first-person shooter game that was first released in 2011. Developed by Eurocom, the game is a remake of the classic Goldeneye game. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay and engaging storyline.
Perfect Dark
Perfect Dark is a first-person shooter game that was first released in 2000. Developed by Rare, the game features Joanna Dark, a secret agent who battles aliens and other enemies. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay and engaging storyline.
Donkey Kong Country
Donkey Kong Country is a platform game that was first released in 1994. Developed by Rare, the game features Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong as they battle enemies and collect bananas. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay and engaging graphics.
Lemmings
Lemmings is a puzzle game
Game Development Platforms and Consoles
Game development platforms and consoles are the backbone of the gaming industry. They provide the necessary tools and hardware for game developers to create and publish games. In the UK, game developers use a variety of platforms and consoles to create games for different audiences. In this section, we will discuss some of the most popular platforms and consoles used by UK game developers.
PC
PC gaming has been around for decades and is still a popular platform for game developers. It offers the most powerful hardware and the most flexibility in terms of game development. UK game developers use a variety of game engines such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and CryEngine to create games for PC. Some of the most popular PC games developed in the UK include Grand Theft Auto V, Football Manager, and Total War.
PlayStation
PlayStation is a popular console platform developed by Sony. It has a large user base and is known for its exclusive titles such as God of War, Uncharted, and The Last of Us. UK game developers use the PlayStation platform to develop games for the console. They use the PlayStation Development Kit (PDK) to create games that are optimized for the hardware of the console.
iOS
iOS is a mobile operating system developed by Apple. It is used in the iPhone and iPad. UK game developers use the iOS platform to create mobile games for Apple devices. The App Store is the primary platform for distributing iOS games. Some of the most popular iOS games developed in the UK include Monument Valley, Alto’s Adventure, and Angry Birds.
Nintendo
Nintendo is a popular console platform developed by Nintendo. It has a large user base and is known for its exclusive titles such as Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokemon. UK game developers use the Nintendo platform to develop games for the console. They use the Nintendo Development Kit (NDK) to create games that are optimized for the hardware of the console.
Xbox
Xbox is a popular console platform developed by Microsoft. It has a large user base and is known for its exclusive titles such as Halo, Gears of War, and Forza Horizon. UK game developers use the Xbox platform to develop games for the console. They use the Xbox Development Kit (XDK) to create games that are optimized for the hardware of the console.
Steam
Steam is a popular digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation. It is used to distribute games and other software to users. UK game developers use the Steam platform to distribute their games to PC users. Steam offers a variety of tools and services for game developers such as game analytics, multiplayer matchmaking, and anti-cheat systems.
Mobile
Mobile gaming has become increasingly popular in recent years. UK game developers use a variety of mobile platforms to create games for smartphones and tablets. Some of the most popular mobile platforms used by UK game developers include iOS, Android, and Unity.
Console
Console gaming is still a popular platform for game developers. UK game developers use a variety of consoles to create games for different audiences. Some of the most popular consoles used by UK game developers include PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo.
Mobile Platforms
Mobile platforms are a popular platform for game developers. UK game developers use a variety of mobile platforms to create games for smartphones and tablets. Some of the most popular mobile platforms used by UK game developers include iOS and Android.
The Future of UK Game Development
The UK game development industry has experienced significant growth over the last decade, with a surge in digital and gaming companies contributing to the sector’s success. In 2020, the UK game development industry generated over £4.2 billion in revenue, making it one of the most successful sectors in the UK’s digital economy.
As the industry continues to evolve, game development companies are exploring new technologies to create more immersive and engaging gaming experiences. Animations, techno, Unreal and HTML are just a few of the technologies that are being used to develop the next generation of video gaming.
NFT game development and blockchain technology are also becoming increasingly popular in the UK game development industry. Game development companies are exploring the potential of NFT games to create unique and valuable gaming experiences for players. Blockchain technology is being used to create secure and transparent gaming environments, allowing players to trade and exchange items with confidence.
Game development companies are also focusing on creating games for new platforms such as solitaire and Unity, which are gaining popularity among gamers. These platforms offer new opportunities for game developers to create innovative and engaging games that appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, the future of UK game development looks bright, with game development companies continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible in the gaming industry. As new technologies and platforms emerge, game development companies are well-positioned to take advantage of these opportunities and create even more exciting and engaging gaming experiences for players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which game development companies in the UK are considered to be the biggest?
The UK is home to some of the biggest game development companies in the world. According to recent reports, Rockstar North, Traveller’s Tales, and Ubisoft Reflections are among the most successful game development companies in the UK.
What are the top-rated game development companies to work for in the UK?
There are several game development companies in the UK that are known for being great places to work. Some of the top-rated companies include Creative Assembly, Playground Games, and Media Molecule.
Which UK-based game development companies have experienced the fastest growth in recent years?
The UK gaming industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, and several game development companies have experienced significant growth. Some of the fastest-growing companies include Jagex, Rebellion, and Sumo Digital.
What are some of the most successful online gaming companies in the UK?
The UK is home to several successful online gaming companies, including Jagex, which is known for its popular game RuneScape. Other successful online gaming companies in the UK include King, which is known for Candy Crush, and Playtech, which provides software for online casinos.
Which gaming companies listed in the UK stock market are worth considering?
Several gaming companies are listed on the UK stock market, and some of the most promising ones include Frontier Developments, which is known for its popular game Elite Dangerous, and Codemasters, which is known for its racing games.
What are some notable AAA studios in the UK gaming industry?
The UK is home to several notable AAA studios, including Rockstar North, which is known for the Grand Theft Auto series, and Rare, which is known for games such as GoldenEye 007 and Banjo-Kazooie. Other notable AAA studios in the UK include Creative Assembly, which is known for the Total War series, and Playground Games, which is known for the Forza Horizon series.
Gaming companies in uk – video game companies uk – biggest uk game developers guide
