Big names from PlayStation and Sony launch Manchester game development studio

Graeme Ankers, the former studio director of tech giant Sony’s Studio Liverpool, has teamed with with the former development director of console brand PlayStation to establish an indie game studio at The Sharp Project.

The duo’s new venture, Fabrik, has taken up 1,200 sq ft of space at the Manchester-based digital and creative hub.

The business already has plans in place to expand its 20-strong team.

Fabrik CEO Graeme Ankers said: “Fabrik is a unique independent studio and publisher.

“We have secured some of the best talent in the world who have worked across gaming’s biggest names – such as Call of Duty Strike Team, Motorstorm, Battlefield, Need for Speed and Driveclub to name a few.”

Fabrik is currently working with new teams to bring its pipeline of games to market.

Discussing the company’s collaborative strategy, Graeme said: “The approach of uniting new game development teams with our in-house expertise is already delivering great results.

“This fusion of experience meets new talent, combined with a passion for bringing new ideas and games to market makes Fabrik different.”

He continued: “Cutting-edge technology companies are the engine of the Northern Powerhouse.

“Fabrik is revving the engine through hiring and working with the best people, making great games and publishing cool new experiences.”

Si Donbavand, the development director at Fabrik, said the decision to establish a new studio was “incredibly exciting” and represents something he has dreamed about for a long time.

He explained: “To be based at The Sharp Project provides the perfect environment for us to grow and develop.

“Having the Swedish gaming school, Playground Squad under the same roof allows us to easily tap into fresh local talent which is fantastic.”

Sue Woodward OBE, the founder of The Sharp Project, said she believes others will now be able to learn from Graeme and Si’s “vast experience” and “international reputation” in the creative sector.

She commented: “Fabrik brings together a team of the best UK developers, and this will create some exciting job opportunities for local people.

“Gaming is another significant digital sector for The Sharp Project and Fabrik’s arrival helps cement this.”

The company’s first game Filthy Lucre, a top-down heist, was announced recently and is due for release later this year.

Kieran D’Archambaud, Fabrik’s technical director, said of the game: “Every time you play a mission, it plays out differently.

“Emergent AI means the world acts and reacts according to your actions. We’re allowing players to create their own unique ways to make a steal, with different experiences each time.”

He added: “The choices you make in game have a consequence, your past actions cascade through the game world and will catch up with you”

Fabrik is confirmed to have a second title in the works, although details of the game have not yet been released.