Radical Forge grows with £2.6 million support

A games studio is moving recruitment to a new level with £2.6 million support.

Radical Forge is creating 15 jobs following Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund backing.

Bosses at the Middlesbrough-based firm say it will also enable it take on “new and bigger contracts” and launch a game early next year. 

Founded in 2017 by Teesside University computer games graduates Bruce Slater and Freddie Babord, Radical Forge employs around 70 staff and has worked with industry names on titles including Gang Beasts and Sea of Thieves.

It also recently established a publishing division, which will soon launch Southfield, a fantasy island farming game where players grow crops, experiment with machinery and build homesteads.

Chief executive Bruce said: “Freddie and I are beyond happy to have secured this funding. 

“It will enable us to realise our ambitions for every team member and continue to build the studio while preserving the culture that is so important to us.”

Radical Forge was backed by NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia Ventures as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II. 

It is the second Middlesbrough games studio to receive funding from Mercia, with SockMonkey Studios – latterly bought by Canadian games publisher Behaviour Interactive – having secured investment from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund in 2020.

Chris McCourt, of Mercia Ventures, said: “Radical Forge are a talented team with a vibrant culture. 

“The current environment holds real opportunities for the business.”

Mick Morris and Jonny Sharp, of Leeds-based games specialists Cerelo Advisory, provided fundraising advice to Radical Forge. 

The £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II covers the North of England and provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment of up to £5 million to small and medium-sized businesses.

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